ATI RN
ATI Medical Surgical Proctored Exam 2023
1. A client with a tracheostomy experienced a coughing spell during a meal that was being fed by an unlicensed assistive personnel (UAP). What action by the nurse takes priority?
- A. Assess the client's lung sounds.
- B. Assign a different UAP to the client.
- C. Report the UAP to the manager.
- D. Request thicker liquids for meals.
Correct answer: A
Rationale: The priority action for the nurse is to assess the client's lung sounds to check for signs of aspiration, which can compromise the client's oxygenation. This is crucial to ensure the client's immediate safety and respiratory status. Once the client has been assessed, the nurse can then consider consulting with the registered dietitian regarding appropriate thickened liquids for future meals. Assigning a different UAP or reporting the UAP to the manager may be necessary steps but not the immediate priority in this situation.
2. What instruction should be included when teaching a client with asthma about using a metered-dose inhaler (MDI)?
- A. Shake the inhaler well before use.
- B. Inhale rapidly while administering the medication.
- C. Administer the medication while lying down.
- D. Hold the inhaler 2 inches away from the mouth while inhaling.
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Shaking the inhaler well before use ensures that the medication is properly mixed, allowing for an accurate dose with each administration. Inhaling slowly and deeply, not rapidly, helps the medication reach the lungs effectively. The medication should be administered while sitting or standing to facilitate proper lung expansion and airflow. Holding the inhaler 2 inches away from the mouth can lead to medication loss; it should be placed directly in the mouth or used with a spacer to optimize delivery to the airways.
3. A client with a new tracheostomy is being seen in the oncology clinic. What finding by the nurse best indicates that goals for the nursing diagnosis Impaired Self-Esteem are being met?
- A. The client demonstrates a good understanding of stoma care.
- B. The client has joined a book club that meets at the library.
- C. Family members take turns assisting with stoma care.
- D. Skin around the stoma is intact without signs of infection.
Correct answer: B
Rationale: The client joining a book club that meets outside the home and requires him or her to go out in public is the best indicator that goals for Impaired Self-Esteem are being met. This social activity indicates an improvement in self-confidence and willingness to engage with others, which are essential aspects of self-esteem. The other choices, while positive, do not directly address self-esteem concerns related to social interaction and confidence.
4. A healthcare professional is caring for four clients on intravenous heparin therapy. Which lab value possibly indicates a serious side effect has occurred?
- A. Hemoglobin: 14.2 g/dL
- B. Platelet count: 82,000/µL
- C. RBC count: 4.8 x 10^6/µL
- D. WBC count: 8.7 x 10^3/µL
Correct answer: B
Rationale: A low platelet count, as seen in choice B, is concerning as it could indicate heparin-induced thrombocytopenia, a serious side effect of heparin therapy. Heparin-induced thrombocytopenia can lead to an increased risk of blood clotting, potentially causing severe complications. Monitoring platelet counts is crucial during heparin therapy to promptly identify and manage this adverse effect.
5. A client interested in smoking cessation is being taught by a nurse. Which statements should the nurse include in the teaching? (Select one that does not apply)
- A. Find an activity that you enjoy and will keep your hands busy.
- B. Keep snacks like potato chips on hand to nibble on.
- C. Drink at least eight glasses of water each day.
- D. Make a list of reasons for quitting smoking.
Correct answer: C
Rationale: When teaching a client interested in smoking cessation, the nurse should advise finding an activity that keeps the hands busy, keeping healthy snacks on hand, making a list of reasons for quitting smoking, and not being upset if a relapse occurs. Drinking eight glasses of water each day is a healthy habit but is not directly related to smoking cessation strategies, making it the option that does not apply in this context.
Similar Questions

Access More Features
ATI RN Basic
$69.99/ 30 days
- 50,000 Questions with answers
- All ATI courses Coverage
- 30 days access @ $69.99
ATI RN Premium
$149.99/ 90 days
- 50,000 Questions with answers
- All ATI courses Coverage
- 30 days access @ $149.99