ATI RN
Cardiovascular System Practice Exam
1. What test measures the pressure in the arteries during the contraction and relaxation of the heart?
- A. Blood pressure test
- B. Electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG)
- C. Spirometry
- D. Pulse oximetry
Correct answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is 'Blood pressure test.' This test measures the pressure in the arteries during the contraction (systolic) and relaxation (diastolic) phases of the heart, providing important information about heart health. Choice B, 'Electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG),' records the heart's electrical activity and is not specifically related to measuring arterial pressure. Choice C, 'Spirometry,' assesses lung function by measuring airflow. Choice D, 'Pulse oximetry,' measures oxygen saturation in the blood, not arterial pressure.
2. What is a surgical procedure to replace a damaged or diseased heart valve with a prosthetic valve?
- A. Valve replacement
- B. Angioplasty
- C. Stent placement
- D. Bypass surgery
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Valve replacement is the correct answer because it involves replacing a damaged or diseased heart valve with a prosthetic valve. This procedure is essential for improving blood flow and heart function. Angioplasty (choice B) is a procedure to widen narrowed or obstructed arteries. Stent placement (choice C) involves inserting a mesh tube to help support weak arteries. Bypass surgery (choice D) is a procedure to create new routes for blood flow when arteries are blocked.
3. What is a condition where the alveoli are gradually destroyed, leading to shortness of breath and reduced oxygen exchange?
- A. Emphysema
- B. Pulmonary fibrosis
- C. Pulmonary edema
- D. Lung cancer
Correct answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Emphysema. Emphysema is a chronic lung condition where the alveoli (air sacs) in the lungs are damaged, reducing the surface area available for gas exchange. This destruction leads to symptoms like shortness of breath and reduced oxygen exchange. Choice B, pulmonary fibrosis, involves scarring and thickening of the lung tissue, not destruction of alveoli. Choice C, pulmonary edema, is the accumulation of fluid in the lungs, not destruction of alveoli. Choice D, lung cancer, is the uncontrolled growth of abnormal cells in the lungs, not destruction of alveoli.
4. Which medication is used to lower high blood pressure and reduce the risk of heart attacks and strokes?
- A. ACE inhibitor
- B. Beta-blocker
- C. Diuretic
- D. Calcium channel blocker
Correct answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is an ACE inhibitor. ACE inhibitors are medications specifically designed to lower high blood pressure and reduce the risk of heart attacks, strokes, and other cardiovascular events. Beta-blockers, diuretics, and calcium channel blockers are also used to treat high blood pressure, but ACE inhibitors are particularly effective in reducing the risk of heart attacks and strokes.
5. The client is on enalapril (Vasotec) for hypertension. What side effect is most commonly associated with this medication?
- A. Dry cough
- B. Hypotension
- C. Hyperkalemia
- D. Headache
Correct answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Dry cough. A dry cough is a common side effect of ACE inhibitors like enalapril. ACE inhibitors can cause the accumulation of bradykinin, leading to irritation of the respiratory tract and resulting in a persistent dry cough. Hypotension (choice B) is a possible side effect of ACE inhibitors but is less common than a dry cough. Hyperkalemia (choice C) is another side effect of ACE inhibitors, but it is not the most commonly associated one. Headache (choice D) is not a common side effect of enalapril compared to a dry cough. Therefore, the most commonly associated side effect with enalapril is a dry cough.
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