ATI RN
Cardiovascular System Exam
1. What does the PR interval measure?
- A. Time it takes for the electrical impulse to travel from the atria to the ventricles
- B. Measurement of ventricular depolarization
- C. Duration of ventricular repolarization
- D. Segment representing the time between ventricular depolarization and repolarization
Correct answer: A
Rationale: The PR interval measures the time it takes for the electrical impulse to travel from the atria to the ventricles. It is crucial in diagnosing heart rhythm disorders, as abnormalities in this interval can indicate conduction abnormalities between the atria and ventricles. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect. The QRS complex represents ventricular depolarization, the QT interval represents the duration of ventricular repolarization, and the ST segment represents the time between ventricular depolarization and repolarization.
2. What is a condition where a blood clot forms in a vein, often in the legs, which can cause pain and swelling and may lead to serious complications if it travels to the lungs?
- A. Deep vein thrombosis (DVT)
- B. Pulmonary embolism
- C. Varicose veins
- D. Aneurysm
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is the correct answer. It is a condition where a blood clot forms in a deep vein, usually in the legs. If the clot breaks loose and travels to the lungs, it can cause a pulmonary embolism. Varicose veins are enlarged, twisted veins that are not typically associated with blood clots. Aneurysm is the abnormal swelling or bulging of a blood vessel.
3. What is the procedure to remove a sample of tissue from the lung for examination under a microscope?
- A. Lung biopsy
- B. Bronchoscopy
- C. Thoracentesis
- D. Lobectomy
Correct answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A, lung biopsy. A lung biopsy involves removing a small sample of lung tissue for examination under a microscope to diagnose lung conditions. Choice B, bronchoscopy, is a procedure where a thin, flexible tube with a light and camera is inserted into the airways to view the lungs. This procedure is more for diagnostic purposes and not specifically for tissue removal. Choice C, thoracentesis, is a procedure to remove fluid from the pleural space around the lungs for diagnostic or therapeutic purposes, not for tissue biopsy. Choice D, lobectomy, is a surgical procedure to remove a lobe of the lung, usually done to treat conditions like lung cancer or severe infections, but it does not involve removing tissue for microscopic examination.
4. The client on nitroglycerin complains of a headache. How does the nurse explain this?
- A. This is a normal side effect of nitroglycerin.
- B. This is an allergic reaction to nitroglycerin.
- C. This is an indication of overdose.
- D. This is a sign of heart failure.
Correct answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: 'This is a normal side effect of nitroglycerin.' Headaches are a common side effect of nitroglycerin due to vasodilation. Choice B is incorrect because allergic reactions to nitroglycerin typically present with symptoms like rash, itching, or shortness of breath. Choice C is incorrect as an overdose of nitroglycerin would likely present with symptoms beyond just a headache. Choice D is incorrect because headaches related to nitroglycerin are not indicative of heart failure.
5. A client on an ACE inhibitor reports a persistent cough. What is the nurse’s best response?
- A. Reassure the client that the cough is a common side effect and is usually not serious.
- B. Instruct the client to report the cough to the healthcare provider as it may require discontinuation of the medication.
- C. Advise the client to use a humidifier at night to relieve the cough.
- D. Suggest the client take an over-the-counter cough suppressant.
Correct answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B. A persistent cough in a client on an ACE inhibitor may indicate a serious side effect that requires discontinuation of the medication. Instructing the client to report the cough to the healthcare provider is essential for proper evaluation and management. Choice A is incorrect because simply reassuring the client may delay necessary action. Choice C is incorrect as using a humidifier may not address the underlying cause of the cough. Choice D is incorrect because taking a cough suppressant without healthcare provider guidance may mask symptoms without addressing the cause.
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