ATI RN
Pathophysiology Practice Questions
1. Which of the following findings is commonly associated with congestive heart failure?
- A. Decreased jugular venous pressure
- B. Pulmonary edema
- C. Hyperactive bowel sounds
- D. Weight loss
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Pulmonary edema is a common finding in congestive heart failure. In congestive heart failure, the heart is unable to pump effectively, leading to fluid buildup in the lungs, causing pulmonary edema. This results in symptoms like shortness of breath, coughing, and wheezing. Choices A, C, and D are not typically associated with congestive heart failure. Jugular venous pressure is often elevated, not decreased in heart failure. Hyperactive bowel sounds and weight loss are not specific findings for congestive heart failure.
2. A family member expresses concern to a nurse about behavioral changes in an elderly aunt. Which would cause the nurse to suspect a cognitive impairment disorder?
- A. Decreased interest in activities that she once enjoyed
- B. Fear of being alone at night
- C. Increased complaints of physical ailments
- D. Problems with preparing a meal or balancing her checkbook
Correct answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D. Problems with tasks like meal preparation and balancing a checkbook can indicate cognitive impairment, as these activities involve cognitive functions such as memory, attention, and executive function. Choices A, B, and C are less indicative of cognitive impairment. Decreased interest in activities and increased complaints of physical ailments may be related to other factors like depression, while fear of being alone at night could be due to anxiety or other psychological issues.
3. A patient with a history of venous thromboembolism is prescribed hormone replacement therapy (HRT). What should the nurse discuss with the patient regarding the risks of HRT?
- A. HRT is associated with an increased risk of venous thromboembolism, so the patient should be aware of the signs and symptoms of blood clots.
- B. HRT can decrease the risk of osteoporosis, but the patient should also be aware of the increased risk of venous thromboembolism.
- C. HRT may increase the risk of breast cancer, so the patient should undergo regular breast exams.
- D. HRT can improve mood and energy levels, but it also carries a risk of cardiovascular events.
Correct answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A. Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is indeed associated with an increased risk of venous thromboembolism. Therefore, patients should be educated about the signs and symptoms of blood clots and advised to seek immediate medical attention if they occur. Choice B is incorrect because although HRT may decrease the risk of osteoporosis, the focus of concern in this case is the increased risk of venous thromboembolism. Choice C is incorrect as it mentions the risk of breast cancer, which is not the primary concern when discussing HRT with a patient with a history of venous thromboembolism. Choice D is also incorrect as it mentions cardiovascular events, which are not the main focus of risk associated with HRT in this scenario.
4. Joseph, a 12-year-old child, complains to the school nurse about nausea and dizziness. While assessing the child, the nurse notices a black eye that looks like an injury. This is the third time in 1 month that the child has visited the nurse. Each time, the child provides vague explanations for various injuries. Which of the following is the school nurse’s priority intervention?
- A. Contact the child’s parents and ask about the child’s injuries.
- B. Encourage the child to be honest about the injuries.
- C. Question the teacher about the child's injuries.
- D. Report suspicion of abuse to the proper authorities.
Correct answer: D
Rationale: The school nurse's priority intervention in this situation is to report suspicion of abuse to the proper authorities. Given the pattern of unexplained injuries and vague explanations provided by the child, it raises significant concerns for possible abuse. Reporting to the appropriate authorities is crucial to ensure the child's safety and well-being. Contacting the child's parents (Choice A) may not be appropriate if abuse is suspected, as it could potentially put the child at further risk. Merely encouraging the child to be honest (Choice B) does not address the immediate safety concerns. Questioning the teacher (Choice C) is not the appropriate initial action when abuse is suspected; reporting to authorities should take precedence.
5. A patient with a history of osteoporosis is prescribed alendronate (Fosamax). What instructions should the nurse provide to ensure the effectiveness of the medication?
- A. Take the medication with a full glass of water and remain upright for at least 30 minutes to prevent esophageal irritation and ensure proper absorption.
- B. Take the medication with milk to enhance calcium absorption.
- C. Take the medication at bedtime to ensure absorption during sleep.
- D. Take the medication with food to prevent nausea.
Correct answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A. Alendronate should be taken with a full glass of water and patients should remain upright for at least 30 minutes to prevent esophageal irritation and ensure proper absorption. Taking the medication with milk (choice B) is not recommended as it may interfere with the absorption of alendronate. Taking the medication at bedtime (choice C) is not necessary for optimal absorption. Taking the medication with food (choice D) is also not recommended as food can reduce the absorption of alendronate.
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