ATI RN
Pathophysiology Practice Exam
1. A patient suffers from an autoimmune disorder. Which of the following represents a potential result of a viral infection in a patient with an autoimmune disorder?
- A. Lymphocytes recognize the host's tissue as foreign.
- B. Erythrocytes destroy the T cells of the host.
- C. The involution of the thymus gland increases the risk of infection.
- D. The differential decreases the sedimentation rate.
Correct answer: A
Rationale: In a patient with an autoimmune disorder, a viral infection can trigger an immune response where lymphocytes mistakenly recognize the host's tissue as foreign. This can lead to an exacerbation of the autoimmune condition. Choice B is incorrect because erythrocytes are not responsible for destroying T cells. Choice C is incorrect as thymus involution weakens the immune response, making the patient more susceptible to infections rather than increasing the infection risk. Choice D is unrelated to the potential effects of a viral infection in a patient with an autoimmune disorder.
2. A tension pneumothorax requires a needle thoracostomy and/or chest tube placement as treatment to which component of the pathophysiology of the condition?
- A. An accumulation of blood in the pleural space, which makes it difficult for the lungs to exchange gases.
- B. Extreme pain caused by a fractured rib
- C. A large accumulation of trapped air in the pleural space affecting both the lungs and heart.
- D. Sudden failure of the respiratory system due to fluid accumulation in the alveoli
Correct answer: C
Rationale: A tension pneumothorax is characterized by a large accumulation of trapped air in the pleural space, creating pressure that affects both the lungs and heart. This condition can lead to life-threatening consequences by shifting mediastinal structures and impairing cardiac function. Treatment involves decompressing the trapped air to relieve the tension. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect as they do not describe the primary pathophysiological mechanism of tension pneumothorax, which is the accumulation of air in the pleural space, not blood, rib fractures, or alveolar fluid accumulation.
3. Which of the following describes the pathophysiology of exercise-induced asthma?
- A. Bronchospasm after exercise
- B. IgE-mediated inflammatory response to antigen
- C. Bronchoconstriction after ingesting high-allergen foods
- D. Increased mucus production due to a genetic mutation
Correct answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: 'Bronchospasm after exercise.' Exercise-induced asthma involves the narrowing of the airways (bronchospasm) triggered by physical activity. This bronchospasm leads to symptoms such as coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because exercise-induced asthma is not primarily caused by an IgE-mediated inflammatory response to an antigen, bronchoconstriction after ingesting high-allergen foods, or increased mucus production due to a genetic mutation.
4. Which information would indicate more teaching is needed regarding hypersensitivity reactions? Type _______ hypersensitivity reactions involve an antibody response.
- A. I
- B. II
- C. III
- D. IV
Correct answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D: Type IV hypersensitivity reactions involve cell-mediated immunity, not an antibody response. This question tests knowledge of hypersensitivity reactions and their classification. Type I hypersensitivity reactions involve IgE antibodies, Type II involves IgG or IgM antibodies, and Type III involves immune complex deposition. Type IV hypersensitivity reactions are delayed and involve T cells, not antibodies. Therefore, if a person believes that Type IV hypersensitivity reactions involve an antibody response, more teaching is required.
5. The nurse is caring for a client with an astrocytoma. The client asks, 'What do astrocytes do in the brain?' What is the nurse's best response?
- A. Astrocytes help to nourish and support neurons in the brain.
- B. Astrocytes are a type of neuron that transmit electrical signals.
- C. Astrocytes are involved in immune responses in the brain.
- D. Astrocytes help regulate blood flow in the brain.
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Astrocytes play a crucial role in supporting and nourishing neurons by providing metabolic support, maintaining the blood-brain barrier, and regulating the chemical environment of the brain. While astrocytes are essential for brain function, they are not neurons and do not transmit electrical signals (Choice B). Astrocytes are not primarily involved in immune responses in the brain (Choice C) or in regulating blood flow in the brain (Choice D), although they indirectly influence blood flow through their support functions.
Similar Questions
Access More Features
ATI RN Basic
$69.99/ 30 days
- 5,000 Questions with answers
- All ATI courses Coverage
- 30 days access
ATI RN Premium
$149.99/ 90 days
- 5,000 Questions with answers
- All ATI courses Coverage
- 30 days access