ATI RN
ATI Nursing Specialty
1. A client hospitalized with deep vein thrombosis has been on IV heparin for 5 days. The provider prescribes oral warfarin (Coumadin) without discontinuing the heparin. The client asks the nurse why both anticoagulants are necessary. Which of the following is an appropriate nursing response?
- A. The Coumadin takes several days to work, so the IV heparin will be used until the Coumadin reaches a therapeutic level.
- B. I will call the provider to get a prescription for discontinuing the IV heparin today
- C. Both heparin and Coumadin work together to dissolve the clots.
- D. The IV heparin increases the effects of the Coumadin and decreases the length of your hospital stay.
Correct answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is, 'The Coumadin takes several days to work, so the IV heparin will be used until the Coumadin reaches a therapeutic level.' Warfarin (Coumadin) is an oral anticoagulant that takes time to reach its full effect, typically a few days. In the meantime, IV heparin is used to provide immediate anticoagulation until the Coumadin levels become therapeutic. Option B is incorrect because discontinuing the IV heparin abruptly without reaching a therapeutic level with Coumadin can increase the risk of clot formation. Option C is incorrect because heparin and Coumadin do not work together to dissolve clots; they both have anticoagulant effects but work differently. Option D is incorrect because IV heparin does not directly increase the effects of Coumadin; they have different mechanisms of action.
2. During a home visit, a nurse sees a client with COPD receiving oxygen at 2 L/min through a nasal cannula. The client reports difficulty breathing. What is the priority nursing action at this time?
- A. Increase the oxygen flow to 3 L/min.
- B. Evaluate the client's respiratory status.
- C. Call emergency services for the client.
- D. Instruct the client to cough and clear secretions.
Correct answer: B
Rationale: The priority nursing action in this situation is to evaluate the client's respiratory status. When a client with COPD on oxygen therapy experiences difficulty breathing, the nurse should first assess the client's respiratory status to determine the severity of the situation. Increasing the oxygen flow without proper assessment can be harmful if not clinically indicated. While calling emergency services may eventually be necessary, it should not be the immediate action without assessing the client first. Instructing the client to cough and clear secretions is not appropriate as the nurse needs to evaluate the respiratory status before proceeding with interventions.
3. A client prescribed home oxygen therapy is receiving discharge teaching from a nurse. Which statement by the client indicates a need for further teaching?
- A. I will be able to tell the amount of oxygen being delivered by looking at the flowmeter.
- B. I should contact my doctor if I notice a decrease in my ability to concentrate.
- C. I will ensure that visitors smoke outside.
- D. I should see a frosty buildup on the tank when I refill my portable oxygen.
Correct answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A. The client's statement indicates a need for further teaching because the flowmeter indicates the flow rate of oxygen, not the total amount of oxygen being delivered. Choices B, C, and D demonstrate understanding of safety measures and indications for seeking medical attention in relation to home oxygen therapy, making them appropriate statements.
4. When caring for a client with COPD, which intervention should the nurse include in the care plan?
- A. Restrict the client's fluid intake to less than 2 L/day.
- B. Encourage the client to use the upper chest for respiration.
- C. Have the client use the early-morning hours for exercise and activity.
- D. Instruct the client to use pursed-lip breathing.
Correct answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is to instruct the client to use pursed-lip breathing. This technique helps improve breathing efficiency by keeping the airways open during exhalation and reducing air trapping. Restricting fluid intake to less than 2 L/day is not appropriate for a client with COPD, as they need adequate hydration. Using the upper chest for respiration is incorrect as it promotes shallow breathing, which is not ideal for COPD patients. While exercise is beneficial, early-morning hours may not be the best time for clients with COPD due to increased respiratory distress in the morning.
5. A client is receiving oxygen therapy via a nasal cannula. The nurse should explain that this method of oxygen delivery does which of the following?
- A. Delivers a specific concentration of oxygen constantly
- B. Delivers a high concentration of oxygen
- C. Delivers a low concentration of oxygen
- D. Restricts the client's ability to eat, speak, or drink
Correct answer: A
Rationale: A nasal cannula is a device used for delivering supplemental oxygen to patients. It delivers a specific concentration of oxygen constantly, typically ranging from 1-6 liters per minute. This method is effective for patients who require low to moderate levels of oxygen. Choices B and C are incorrect because a nasal cannula does not deliver a high concentration of oxygen and is not considered a low concentration delivery method. Choice D is incorrect because a nasal cannula does not restrict the client's ability to eat, speak, or drink; it allows them to perform these activities while receiving oxygen therapy.
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