ATI RN
Cardiovascular System Exam Questions Pdf
1. What procedure involves inserting a needle into the pleural space to remove excess fluid and help the patient breathe more easily?
- A. Thoracentesis
- B. Bronchoscopy
- C. Spirometry
- D. Arterial blood gas (ABG)
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Thoracentesis is the correct answer. It is a procedure where a needle is inserted into the pleural space to remove excess fluid, aiding in easier breathing. Bronchoscopy (Choice B) is a procedure to visualize the airways and diagnose lung problems, not specifically for fluid drainage. Spirometry (Choice C) is a test to measure lung function, not a procedure for fluid removal. Arterial blood gas (ABG) (Choice D) is a blood test to assess oxygen and carbon dioxide levels in the blood, not a procedure for draining fluid from the pleural space.
2. The client on furosemide (Lasix) is at risk for which electrolyte imbalance?
- A. Hyperkalemia
- B. Hypokalemia
- C. Hyponatremia
- D. Hypernatremia
Correct answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Hypokalemia. Furosemide is a loop diuretic that can lead to potassium loss, resulting in hypokalemia. This electrolyte imbalance is a significant risk associated with diuretic use. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect. Hyperkalemia (choice A) is not typically associated with furosemide use. Hyponatremia (choice C) and hypernatremia (choice D) are related to sodium levels, not potassium levels affected by furosemide.
3. What is the condition where the heart's mitral valve becomes narrowed, restricting blood flow from the left atrium to the left ventricle?
- A. Mitral stenosis
- B. Aortic stenosis
- C. Tricuspid regurgitation
- D. Pulmonary hypertension
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Mitral stenosis is the correct answer. It is a condition characterized by the narrowing of the heart's mitral valve, which hinders the flow of blood from the left atrium to the left ventricle. This obstruction can lead to symptoms such as shortness of breath and fatigue. Aortic stenosis (choice B) is the narrowing of the aortic valve, not the mitral valve. Tricuspid regurgitation (choice C) is the backflow of blood through the tricuspid valve, not narrowing. Pulmonary hypertension (choice D) is increased blood pressure in the pulmonary arteries, not narrowing of the mitral valve.
4. Which neurotransmitter is released by the sympathetic nervous system (SNS) to increase heart rate and the force of contraction of the heart?
- A. Norepinephrine
- B. Epinephrine
- C. Dopamine
- D. Acetylcholine
Correct answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is Norepinephrine. Norepinephrine is the neurotransmitter released by the sympathetic nervous system that increases heart rate and the force of contraction. Epinephrine, though similar, is more involved in the fight-or-flight response and has a broader range of effects on various organs. Dopamine is not primarily responsible for increasing heart rate and contractility. Acetylcholine is a neurotransmitter that predominantly acts on the parasympathetic nervous system to decrease heart rate and contractility.
5. What is a type of medication that helps to prevent blood clots by thinning the blood?
- A. Anticoagulant
- B. Beta-blocker
- C. ACE inhibitor
- D. Calcium channel blocker
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Anticoagulants are medications specifically designed to prevent blood clots by thinning the blood. They work by interfering with the body's blood clotting process. Beta-blockers, ACE inhibitors, and calcium channel blockers are medications used for different purposes such as managing blood pressure, heart conditions, and regulating heart rhythm, respectively. However, they do not have the primary function of preventing blood clots like anticoagulants.
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