what is the priority nursing action for a patient with shortness of breath
Logo

Nursing Elites

ATI RN

ATI RN Exit Exam 2023

1. What is the priority nursing action for a patient with shortness of breath?

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Administering oxygen is the priority nursing action for a patient experiencing shortness of breath. Oxygen therapy aims to improve oxygenation levels quickly, addressing the underlying cause of the symptom. Repositioning the patient, checking oxygen saturation, and elevating the head of the bed are important interventions but administering oxygen takes precedence in this scenario to ensure adequate oxygen supply to the body.

2. A nurse is assessing a client who is postoperative following a total knee arthroplasty. Which of the following findings should the nurse report to the provider?

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D. Warmth and redness in the calf are indicative of a possible deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a serious complication post-surgery that requires immediate attention. Reporting this finding promptly to the provider is crucial for timely intervention. Choices A, B, and C are within normal limits for a postoperative client and do not indicate a potentially life-threatening condition like DVT.

3. A nurse is caring for a toddler who has acute lymphocytic leukemia. In which of the following activities should the toddler participate?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is playing with a large plastic truck. This activity is suitable for toddlers as it promotes their development, encourages fine motor skills, and provides an opportunity for imaginative play. Looking at alphabet flashcards may be more suitable for older children who are learning letters and words. Using scissors to cut out paper shapes may pose a safety risk for a toddler, as they may not have the dexterity or understanding required for this activity. Watching a cartoon in the dayroom is a passive activity and does not actively engage the toddler in physical or cognitive development.

4. A nurse is caring for a client who is 1 hour postpartum. Which of the following findings should the nurse report to the provider?

Correct answer: D

Rationale: After childbirth, it is normal for the fundus to be firm and at the level of the umbilicus, heart rate to be around 80/min, and blood pressure to be slightly elevated. However, a constant trickle of bright red blood from the vagina is concerning as it could indicate postpartum hemorrhage. This finding should be reported promptly to the healthcare provider for further evaluation and intervention. Choices A, B, and C are within expected postpartum parameters and do not indicate an immediate need for intervention.

5. A nurse is providing teaching to an older adult client about methods to promote nighttime sleep. Which of the following instructions should the nurse include?

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is to eat a light snack before bedtime. Consuming a light snack can help promote sleep by preventing discomfort from hunger. Choice A is incorrect because staying in bed for too long when unable to fall asleep can lead to frustration and worsen insomnia. Choice B is incorrect as taking a nap during the day can interfere with nighttime sleep. Choice C is incorrect as exercising before bed can increase alertness and make falling asleep more difficult.

Similar Questions

When providing dietary teaching for a new prescription of phenelzine, which of the following foods should be avoided?
A nurse is caring for a client who has diaper dermatitis. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?
A client has thrombocytopenia. What action should the nurse include?
When caring for a client with asthma experiencing an acute exacerbation, which medication should the nurse administer first?
A nurse is planning care for a client who is postoperative following a bowel resection. Which of the following interventions should the nurse include?

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

Other Courses