ATI RN
Pathophysiology Practice Questions
1. In a 70-year-old man with a history of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) reporting increasing shortness of breath, wheezing, and cough, which finding would indicate a potential exacerbation of his COPD?
- A. Increased wheezing
- B. Decreased respiratory rate
- C. Improved exercise tolerance
- D. Decreased sputum production
Correct answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Increased wheezing. In COPD exacerbations, there is a worsening of symptoms such as increased wheezing due to airway inflammation and narrowing. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect. Decreased respiratory rate would not be expected in COPD exacerbation as it is usually a compensatory mechanism to maintain oxygenation. Improved exercise tolerance is not a typical finding in exacerbations but rather a sign of improvement. Decreased sputum production is also not indicative of exacerbation, as exacerbations are often associated with increased sputum production.
2. The nurse is caring for a client following a mastectomy. Which nursing intervention would assist in preventing lymphedema of the affected arm?
- A. Placing cool compresses on the affected arm
- B. Elevating the affected arm on a pillow above heart level
- C. Avoiding arm exercises in the immediate postoperative period
- D. Maintaining an intravenous site below the antecubital area on the affected side
Correct answer: B
Rationale: After a mastectomy, particularly when lymph nodes are removed, there is an increased risk of lymphedema in the affected arm due to impaired lymphatic drainage. Elevating the affected arm above heart level helps promote lymphatic drainage and reduces the risk of swelling. This intervention facilitates the return of lymph fluid and helps prevent fluid accumulation in the arm.
3. A nurse is planning care for a client who is 1 day postoperative following a hypophysectomy for the removal of a pituitary tumor. Which of the following findings requires further assessment by the nurse?
- A. Glasgow Coma Scale score of 15
- B. Blood drainage on the initial dressing measuring 3 cm
- C. Report of dry mouth
- D. Urinary output greater than fluid intake
Correct answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D. Urinary output greater than fluid intake could indicate diabetes insipidus, a complication following hypophysectomy. Diabetes insipidus is characterized by excessive urination and extreme thirst due to inadequate levels of antidiuretic hormone (ADH). Options A, B, and C are all expected findings in the immediate postoperative period following a hypophysectomy. A Glasgow Coma Scale score of 15 indicates the highest level of consciousness, blood drainage on the initial dressing is a common finding after surgery, and dry mouth can be a side effect of anesthesia and surgical procedures.
4. A client with borderline personality disorder is admitted to the psychiatric unit. Which intervention should the nurse implement to promote the client's safety?
- A. Implement a no-harm contract with the client.
- B. Monitor the client closely for signs of self-harm.
- C. Encourage the client to participate in recreational activities.
- D. Encourage the client to maintain a structured daily routine.
Correct answer: A
Rationale: When a client with borderline personality disorder is admitted to a psychiatric unit, implementing a no-harm contract is a crucial intervention to promote the client's safety. A no-harm contract is a formal agreement between the client and the healthcare provider stating that the client commits to not harm themselves or others. This intervention helps in establishing boundaries and promoting safety by enhancing communication and accountability between the client and the healthcare team. Monitoring the client closely for signs of self-harm (Choice B) is important but does not directly address promoting safety through a formal agreement. Encouraging participation in recreational activities (Choice C) and maintaining a structured daily routine (Choice D) are beneficial interventions but may not directly address the immediate safety concerns of a client with borderline personality disorder.
5. The parents of a 2-month-old boy are concerned about spoiling their son by picking him up when he cries. What is the nurse's best response?
- A. Allow him to cry for no longer than 15 minutes and then pick him up
- B. Babies need comforting and cuddling. Meeting these needs will not spoil him
- C. Babies this young cry when they are hungry. Try feeding him when he cries
- D. If he isn’t soiled or wet, leave him, and he'll cry himself to sleep
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Comforting and cuddling a 2-month-old baby when they cry helps build trust and security. At this age, responding to cries does not lead to spoiling, but rather supports healthy emotional development.
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