ATI RN
Pathophysiology Practice Questions
1. In clients with a cognitive impairment disorder, the phenomenon of increased confusion in the early evening hours is called:
- A. Aphasia.
- B. Agnosia.
- C. Sundowning.
- D. Confabulation.
Correct answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: Sundowning. Sundowning is a phenomenon where individuals with cognitive impairment experience increased confusion and agitation in the late afternoon or early evening. This often occurs in conditions like dementia. Choice A, Aphasia, refers to a language disorder affecting a person's ability to communicate. Choice B, Agnosia, is the inability to recognize objects. Choice D, Confabulation, is the production of false memories without the intention to deceive, often seen in conditions like Korsakoff's syndrome.
2. During physical therapy, a client with Parkinson's disease makes the following statements. Which statement indicates the need for a referral to physical therapy?
- A. ''I have been experiencing more tremors in my left arm than before''
- B. ''I noticed that I am having a harder time holding on to my toothbrush''
- C. ''Lately, I feel like my feet are freezing up, as they are stuck to the ground''
- D. ''Sometimes, I feel I am making a chewing motion when I'm not eating''
Correct answer: ''Lately, I feel like my feet are freezing up, as they are stuck to the ground''
Rationale: Feeling like the feet are freezing up and sticking to the ground is a common symptom of Parkinson's disease known as 'freezing of gait.' This symptom significantly impacts mobility and can be dangerous, indicating the need for specialized physical therapy interventions to address gait disturbances and improve mobility.
3. Which question should the healthcare provider ask when assessing the client for an endocrine dysfunction?
- A. “Have you noticed any pain in your legs when walking?”
- B. “Have you had any unexplained weight loss?”
- C. “Have you noticed any change in your bowel movements?”
- D. “Have you experienced any joint pain or discomfort?”
Correct answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: “Have you had any unexplained weight loss?” Unexplained weight loss can be a significant symptom of various endocrine disorders, such as hyperthyroidism and diabetes. Weight changes are often closely linked to endocrine dysfunction due to the hormonal imbalances affecting metabolism. Choices A, C, and D are less specific to endocrine dysfunction. Pain in the legs, changes in bowel movements, and joint pain or discomfort are symptoms that can be related to various health conditions but are not as indicative of endocrine disorders as unexplained weight loss.
4. A healthcare provider is reviewing laboratory results for a client who has diabetes mellitus. Which of the following tests is an indicator of long-term blood glucose control?
- A. Fasting blood glucose
- B. Glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c)
- C. Random blood glucose
- D. Postprandial blood glucose
Correct answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B, Glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c). HbA1c provides a measure of long-term blood glucose control over the past 2-3 months. This test reflects the average blood glucose levels during this period, making it a valuable tool in managing diabetes. Choices A, C, and D are not indicators of long-term blood glucose control. Fasting blood glucose measures the current glucose level after a period of not eating, random blood glucose provides a snapshot of the current glucose level, and postprandial blood glucose measures the glucose level after a meal.
5. A client has a new ileostomy. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?
- A. Apply a skin barrier around the stoma.
- B. Empty the pouch when it is one-third full.
- C. Change the entire pouching system weekly.
- D. Cleanse the peristomal skin with alcohol.
Correct answer: C
Rationale: Changing the entire pouching system weekly is essential for maintaining skin integrity and preventing infection. Option A is incorrect as applying a skin barrier should be done during the pouch change, not separately. Option B is incorrect as ileostomy pouches should be emptied when they are one-third to one-half full to prevent leakage. Option D is incorrect because cleansing the peristomal skin with alcohol can be too harsh and may cause skin irritation.
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