ATI RN
ATI RN Custom Exams Set 1
1. Six hours after major abdominal surgery, a male client complains of severe abdominal pain; is pale and perspiring; has a thready, rapid pulse; and states he feels faint. The nurse checks the client’s medication administration record and determines that the client receives another injection of pain medication in an hour. What is the appropriate action by the nurse?
- A. Explain to the client that it is too early to have an injection for pain
- B. Call the practitioner, report the client’s symptoms, and obtain further orders
- C. Reposition the client for greater comfort and turn on the television as a distraction
- D. Prepare the injection and administer it to the client early because of the severe pain
Correct answer: B
Rationale: The correct action for the nurse to take in this situation is to call the practitioner, report the client’s symptoms, and obtain further orders. The client's symptoms, including severe abdominal pain, pallor, perspiration, thready rapid pulse, and feeling faint, are indicative of potential complications like internal bleeding, which require immediate medical evaluation. Explaining to the client that it is too early for pain medication or repositioning the client for comfort are not appropriate actions given the severity of the symptoms. Administering the injection early without consulting the practitioner can be dangerous and may worsen the client's condition.
2. Which parental statement at the end of a teaching session by the nurse indicates correct understanding of colostomy stoma care for the infant client?
- A. We will change the colostomy bag with each wet diaper.
- B. We will expect a moderate amount of bleeding after cleansing the area around the stoma.
- C. We will watch for skin irritation around the stoma.
- D. We will use adhesive enhancers when we change the bag.
Correct answer: C
Rationale: Choosing option C, 'We will watch for skin irritation around the stoma,' demonstrates understanding of proper colostomy stoma care. Monitoring for skin irritation is crucial as it can indicate issues such as leakage, improper sealing, or infection. Options A, B, and D are incorrect. Changing the colostomy bag with each wet diaper (option A) is unnecessary unless indicated by a healthcare provider to prevent skin breakdown. Expecting bleeding after cleansing (option B) is not normal and may signal a problem that requires medical attention. Using adhesive enhancers (option D) should be done based on specific recommendations and not necessarily with every bag change.
3. The health care provider's progress note for a patient states that the complete blood count (CBC) shows a 'shift to the left.' Which assessment finding will the nurse expect?
- A. Cool extremities
- B. Pallor and weakness
- C. Elevated temperature
- D. Low oxygen saturation
Correct answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: Elevated temperature. When a CBC shows a 'shift to the left,' it indicates elevated levels of immature polymorphonuclear neutrophils (bands), which is a sign of infection. In response to the infection, the body increases its temperature as part of the immune response. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because cool extremities, pallor and weakness, and low oxygen saturation are not typically associated with a 'shift to the left' in a CBC; they are more indicative of other conditions or issues.
4. A nurse discovers a discrepancy in the narcotics log. What is the appropriate next step?
- A. Correct the log and notify the pharmacy.
- B. Report the discrepancy to the nurse manager.
- C. Re-administer the narcotic.
- D. Dispose of the narcotic and note the discrepancy.
Correct answer: B
Rationale: When a nurse discovers a discrepancy in the narcotics log, the appropriate next step is to report the discrepancy to the nurse manager. This is important to ensure that the issue is properly investigated and addressed. Choice A is incorrect because simply correcting the log and notifying the pharmacy may not address the root cause of the discrepancy. Choice C is incorrect as re-administering the narcotic without clarification could lead to potential harm or legal issues. Choice D is incorrect as disposing of the narcotic without following proper protocols and documentation could result in further complications.
5. A client has a prescription for Acyclovir. Which of the following instructions should the nurse include?
- A. Expect to take this medication long-term.
- B. Increase fluid intake during therapy.
- C. Avoid sexual contact while on this medication.
- D. Consult your healthcare provider if you experience nausea.
Correct answer: B
Rationale: The correct instruction for a client taking Acyclovir is to increase fluid intake during therapy. Acyclovir can cause nephrotoxicity, potentially leading to kidney damage. Increasing fluid intake helps prevent this adverse effect by promoting adequate renal function and drug elimination. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect. Acyclovir is usually prescribed for short-term use, there is no need to avoid sexual contact while on the medication, and nausea is not a common side effect that necessitates immediate consultation with a healthcare provider.