ATI RN
Cardiovascular System Exam Questions
1. The nurse is caring for a client on enalapril (Vasotec). What is the most important side effect to monitor?
- A. Cough
- B. Hyperkalemia
- C. Hypotension
- D. Dizziness
Correct answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Cough. Enalapril is an ACE inhibitor, and cough is a common side effect associated with this class of medication. Monitoring for cough is crucial as it can indicate the development of a potentially serious condition known as angioedema. Hyperkalemia (choice B) is a possible side effect of ACE inhibitors but is not the most important side effect to monitor. Hypotension (choice C) and dizziness (choice D) are also potential side effects of enalapril; however, cough takes precedence due to its association with angioedema, a severe adverse reaction.
2. What is a condition where the airways become inflamed and narrow, making breathing difficult?
- A. Asthma
- B. Bronchitis
- C. Pleurisy
- D. Tuberculosis
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Asthma is the correct answer. It is a condition characterized by inflammation, narrowing, and swelling of the airways, leading to symptoms like wheezing, shortness of breath, and coughing. Bronchitis is the inflammation of the bronchial tubes; Pleurisy is inflammation of the tissues that line the lungs and chest cavity; Tuberculosis is a bacterial infection that mainly affects the lungs.
3. What is the term for inflammation of the bronchial tubes, often leading to a persistent cough and mucus production?
- A. Bronchitis
- B. Asthma
- C. Pneumonia
- D. Cystic fibrosis
Correct answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is 'Bronchitis.' Bronchitis refers to the inflammation of the bronchial tubes, which can be acute or chronic, leading to symptoms like coughing and increased mucus production. Choice B, 'Asthma,' is a chronic condition characterized by inflammation and narrowing of the airways, often causing wheezing and shortness of breath. Choice C, 'Pneumonia,' is an infection that inflames air sacs in one or both lungs, leading to symptoms like fever, cough, and difficulty breathing. Choice D, 'Cystic fibrosis,' is a genetic disorder that affects the lungs and digestive system, causing mucus buildup and respiratory issues.
4. A client on a beta blocker has a blood pressure of 90/60 mm Hg. What is the nurse’s priority action?
- A. Hold the beta blocker and notify the healthcare provider.
- B. Administer the beta blocker as ordered.
- C. Administer a diuretic to reduce blood pressure.
- D. Continue to monitor the client and reassess in 30 minutes.
Correct answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is to hold the beta blocker and notify the healthcare provider. A blood pressure of 90/60 mm Hg is already low, and beta blockers can further decrease blood pressure. Administering the beta blocker can potentially worsen the situation, leading to complications. Administering a diuretic or continuing to monitor the client without taking immediate action could delay necessary intervention. Therefore, holding the beta blocker and involving the healthcare provider promptly is crucial in this scenario.
5. What is a condition where the lung's air sacs (alveoli) are damaged and enlarged, leading to breathlessness?
- A. Emphysema
- B. Chronic bronchitis
- C. Asthma
- D. Pulmonary fibrosis
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Emphysema is the correct answer. It is a condition where the air sacs in the lungs are damaged and enlarged, leading to breathlessness. Chronic bronchitis is characterized by inflammation of the bronchial tubes, not the alveoli. Asthma involves airway inflammation and constriction, not alveolar damage. Pulmonary fibrosis is a condition where lung tissue becomes thickened and scarred, different from the alveolar damage seen in emphysema.
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