ATI RN
Cardiovascular System Exam
1. What is the buildup of plaque in the arteries that can lead to heart attack, stroke, and other cardiovascular diseases?
- A. Atherosclerosis
- B. Arteriosclerosis
- C. Hypertension
- D. Diabetes
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Atherosclerosis is the correct answer. It is the buildup of plaque in the arteries, leading to the narrowing of blood vessels, reduced blood flow, and an increased risk of heart attacks, strokes, and other cardiovascular diseases. Arteriosclerosis (choice B) refers to the hardening and thickening of arterial walls, while hypertension (choice C) is high blood pressure, and diabetes (choice D) is a metabolic disorder characterized by high blood sugar levels. Therefore, choices B, C, and D are incorrect in the context of the question.
2. The client is receiving digoxin and complains of nausea. What is the nurse’s priority action?
- A. Check the client’s digoxin level.
- B. Continue the current dose of digoxin.
- C. Administer an antiemetic for nausea.
- D. Discontinue the digoxin immediately.
Correct answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is to check the client’s digoxin level (Choice A). Nausea can be a sign of digoxin toxicity, so assessing the digoxin level is crucial to determine if the medication dosage needs adjustment. Continuing the current dose of digoxin (Choice B) may worsen the symptoms if toxicity is present. Administering an antiemetic (Choice C) may provide temporary relief but does not address the underlying issue of digoxin toxicity. Discontinuing digoxin immediately (Choice D) without assessing the digoxin level can be harmful if the medication is within the therapeutic range.
3. This medication type is used to relax and widen blood vessels, improving blood flow and reducing blood pressure.
- A. Vasodilator
- B. Anticoagulant
- C. Diuretic
- D. Beta-blocker
Correct answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Vasodilator. Vasodilators are medications that work by relaxing and widening blood vessels, which improves blood flow and reduces blood pressure. They are commonly used in the treatment of heart conditions. Anticoagulants (choice B) are medications that prevent blood clot formation, diuretics (choice C) increase urine production to reduce fluid retention, and beta-blockers (choice D) reduce heart rate and workload on the heart. These mechanisms differ from the action of vasodilators.
4. The client asks about side effects of taking digoxin. How does the nurse respond?
- A. Anorexia can be a side effect of digoxin.
- B. Tachycardia can be a side effect of digoxin.
- C. Constipation can be a side effect of digoxin.
- D. Urinary retention can be a side effect of digoxin.
Correct answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: 'Anorexia can be a side effect of digoxin.' Anorexia, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea are commonly known side effects of digoxin. Choice B, 'Tachycardia can be a side effect of digoxin,' is incorrect as digoxin is used to treat tachycardia, not cause it. Choice C, 'Constipation can be a side effect of digoxin,' is incorrect as constipation is not a typical side effect of digoxin. Choice D, 'Urinary retention can be a side effect of digoxin,' is also incorrect as urinary retention is not a common side effect associated with digoxin use.
5. The client is on hydrochlorothiazide and digoxin. What effect can the nurse expect?
- A. Hydrochlorothiazide increases digoxin levels.
- B. Hydrochlorothiazide decreases digoxin levels.
- C. Hydrochlorothiazide decreases potassium, increasing the risk of digoxin toxicity.
- D. Digoxin can increase the effectiveness of hydrochlorothiazide.
Correct answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C. Hydrochlorothiazide is a diuretic that can decrease potassium levels, which in turn can increase the risk of digoxin toxicity. Digoxin typically doesn't impact hydrochlorothiazide levels or effectiveness, making choices A, B, and D incorrect. Choice A stating that hydrochlorothiazide increases digoxin levels is inaccurate. Choice B suggesting that hydrochlorothiazide decreases digoxin levels is also incorrect. Choice D, stating that digoxin can increase the effectiveness of hydrochlorothiazide, is not a typical interaction seen between these medications.
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