ATI RN
Physical Exam Cardiovascular System
1. What structures hold up the AV valves and are anchored to the ventricular wall by the papillary muscles?
- A. Chordae tendineae
- B. Papillary muscles
- C. Semilunar valves
- D. Aortic valve
Correct answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Chordae tendineae. Chordae tendineae are fibrous cords that connect the AV valves to the papillary muscles, preventing the valves from inverting during ventricular contraction. Papillary muscles (choice B) anchor the chordae tendineae to the ventricular wall but do not hold up the AV valves directly. Semilunar valves (choice C) are located between the ventricles and the major arteries and are not involved in holding up the AV valves. The aortic valve (choice D) is one of the semilunar valves and is not responsible for holding up the AV valves.
2. A client has been diagnosed with major depressive disorder. Which is an appropriate short-term goal for the client?
- A. The client will report a decrease in depressive symptoms.
- B. The client will establish a sleep routine.
- C. The client will improve social interactions.
- D. The client will set realistic goals for the future.
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Setting a goal for the client to report a decrease in depressive symptoms is appropriate as it is specific, measurable, and achievable in the short term. Monitoring changes in depressive symptoms provides valuable feedback on the effectiveness of the treatment plan. While establishing a sleep routine, improving social interactions, and setting realistic goals for the future are important aspects of recovery, they are more suitable as intermediate or long-term goals. In the context of short-term goals, focusing on symptom reduction can provide immediate feedback on the client's progress and help adjust the treatment plan accordingly.
3. A patient is being treated for dehydration. Which lab result would support the diagnosis?
- A. Elevated hemoglobin
- B. Low sodium level
- C. High white blood cell count
- D. Elevated BUN
Correct answer: D
Rationale: Elevated BUN levels are a characteristic finding in dehydration due to reduced kidney perfusion and increased reabsorption of urea. Hemoglobin levels might be elevated in conditions like polycythemia vera, not directly related to dehydration. A low sodium level could be seen in conditions like hyponatremia. A high white blood cell count is more indicative of infection or inflammation rather than dehydration.
4. A client with acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) requires care planning. Which of the following interventions should be included in the plan?
- A. Administer low-flow oxygen continuously via nasal cannula.
- B. Encourage oral intake of at least 3,000 mL of fluids per day.
- C. Offer high-protein and high-carbohydrate foods frequently.
- D. Place in a prone position
Correct answer: Place in a prone position
Rationale: In acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), placing the client in a prone position helps improve ventilation-perfusion matching and oxygenation. This position can optimize lung function and is a beneficial intervention for clients with ARDS. Administering low-flow oxygen via nasal cannula, encouraging oral intake of excess fluids, or offering high-protein and high-carbohydrate foods are not primary interventions for ARDS and may not directly address the respiratory distress experienced by the client.
5. The healthcare provider is assessing an immobile patient for deep vein thrombosis (DVT). What should the healthcare provider do?
- A. Lightly rub the lower leg to check for redness and tenderness.
- B. Apply elastic stockings every 4 hours.
- C. Measure the calf circumference of both legs.
- D. Flex the foot while assessing for patient discomfort.
Correct answer: C
Rationale: Measuring the calf circumference of both legs is crucial when assessing for DVT in an immobile patient. A significant increase in the circumference of one calf compared to the other suggests the presence of a deep vein thrombosis. Option A is incorrect because rubbing the lower leg may dislodge a clot if present. Option B is incorrect as elastic stockings should not be removed frequently as this can increase the risk of clot formation. Option D is incorrect as dorsiflexing the foot can lead to pain and should not be done to assess for DVT.
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