ATI RN
ATI Exit Exam 2023
1. A nurse is reviewing the laboratory values of a client who is taking spironolactone. Which of the following values should the nurse report to the provider?
- A. Sodium 144 mEq/L
- B. Potassium 5.2 mEq/L
- C. Bicarbonate 24 mEq/L
- D. Magnesium 1.9 mEq/L
Correct answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: 'Potassium 5.2 mEq/L.' When a client is taking spironolactone, which is a potassium-sparing diuretic, monitoring potassium levels is crucial. A potassium level of 5.2 mEq/L is higher than normal and can lead to cardiac dysrhythmias, so it should be reported. Choices A, C, and D are within normal ranges and would not be of immediate concern when assessing a client taking spironolactone.
2. A patient is being treated for active tuberculosis with ethambutol (Myambutol). The patient states to the nurse that he cannot identify the red and green on the traffic lights when he is driving. Based on this finding, what medical intervention is most appropriate?
- A. Assess for photosensitivity.
- B. Discontinue ethambutol (Myambutol).
- C. Decrease the ethambutol (Myambutol) dose.
- D. Administer vitamin B.
Correct answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is to assess for photosensitivity. Ethambutol can cause optic neuritis, leading to visual disturbances, including difficulty differentiating red and green colors. This is a sign of optic nerve damage and requires immediate evaluation. Discontinuing ethambutol may be necessary if optic neuritis is confirmed, but this decision should be made by a healthcare provider. Decreasing the dose of ethambutol may not address the visual changes. Administering vitamin B does not directly address the side effect caused by ethambutol.
3. The healthcare professional is preparing to administer an immunization to a four-year-old child. Which of the following actions should the professional plan to take?
- A. Place the child in a prone position for the immunization
- B. Request that the child's caregiver stay in the room during the immunization
- C. Administer the immunization using a 24-gauge needle
- D. Inject the immunization slowly without aspirating
Correct answer: C
Rationale: When administering an immunization to a four-year-old child, it is important to use a 24-gauge needle to minimize pain and discomfort for the child. Thicker needles can cause more pain and tissue trauma. Using a thinner needle like a 24-gauge is appropriate for pediatric immunizations. Placing the child in a prone position for immunization is not recommended as it can be uncomfortable and may not allow for proper access to the injection site. Having the caregiver stay in the room during the immunization is beneficial for support and comfort for the child. Injecting the immunization slowly without aspirating is correct, as aspirating before administering the immunization is not required for intramuscular injections in current practice.
4. A nurse is providing discharge teaching to a client who has a new prescription for lithium. Which of the following instructions should the nurse include?
- A. Take this medication on an empty stomach.
- B. Avoid eating foods that contain tyramine.
- C. Drink at least 2 liters of water each day.
- D. Take this medication in the evening before bedtime.
Correct answer: C
Rationale: The correct instruction for a client prescribed lithium is to drink at least 2 liters of water each day. This is important to prevent dehydration and reduce the risk of lithium toxicity. Option A is incorrect because lithium is usually taken with food to minimize gastrointestinal side effects. Option B is unrelated to lithium and is more applicable to clients taking MAOIs. Option D is incorrect as lithium is typically taken in divided doses throughout the day to maintain therapeutic levels.
5. A client had a total hip arthroplasty. Which of the following prescriptions should the nurse verify with the provider?
- A. Administer enoxaparin 30 mg subcutaneously every 12 hr
- B. Place a wedge or pillow between the client's legs when turning.
- C. Instruct the client to restrict flexion of the hip past 120°.
- D. Encourage the client to perform foot and calf exercises every 2 hr
Correct answer: Instruct the client to restrict flexion of the hip past 120°.
Rationale: Following a total hip arthroplasty, the client should be instructed to restrict hip flexion past 90 degrees to prevent dislocation of the prosthesis. Restricting flexion past 120 degrees is excessive and could lead to complications. Therefore, the nurse should verify this prescription with the provider to ensure the client's safety and proper postoperative care.
Similar Questions
Access More Features
ATI Basic
- 50,000 Questions with answers
- All ATI courses Coverage
- 30 days access @ $69.99
ATI Basic
- 50,000 Questions with answers
- All ATI courses Coverage
- 90 days access @ $149.99