ATI RN
ATI RN Adult Medical Surgical Online Practice 2023 A
1. A client's arterial blood gas results show a pH of 7.3 and a PaCO2 of 50 mm Hg. The client is experiencing which of the following acid-base imbalances?
- A. Metabolic acidosis
- B. Metabolic alkalosis
- C. Respiratory acidosis
- D. Respiratory alkalosis
Correct answer: C
Rationale: In respiratory acidosis, there is an excess of carbon dioxide (PaCO2 > 45 mm Hg) leading to a decrease in pH (<7.35). The given values of a pH of 7.3 and PaCO2 of 50 mm Hg indicate respiratory acidosis. Metabolic acidosis involves a primary decrease in bicarbonate levels with a compensatory decrease in PaCO2 to maintain balance. Metabolic alkalosis is characterized by elevated pH and bicarbonate levels. Respiratory alkalosis is marked by low PaCO2 and increased pH levels.
2. A client has a disposable three-chamber chest tube in place. Which of the following findings should indicate to the nurse that the client is experiencing a complication?
- A. Continuous bubbling in the water-seal chamber
- B. Occasional bubbling in the water-seal chamber
- C. Constant bubbling in the suction-control chamber
- D. Fluctuations in the fluid level in the water-seal chamber
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Continuous bubbling in the water-seal chamber indicates air is leaking into the pleural space, which is a complication. The water-seal chamber should have intermittent bubbling during normal functioning. Occasional bubbling in the water-seal chamber is normal and shows the system is working as intended. Constant bubbling in the suction-control chamber suggests an issue with the suction control. Fluctuations in the fluid level in the water-seal chamber are an expected finding.
3. A client has a newly inserted chest drainage system with a water seal. Which of the following actions should be taken?
- A. Clamp the tube when the client is ambulating.
- B. Keep the collection device below the level of the client's chest.
- C. Carefully coil the tubes to prevent kinking.
- D. Position the client flat to avoid leaks in the tubing.
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Keeping the collection device below the level of the client's chest ensures proper drainage and prevents backflow of fluid into the patient's chest. This position allows gravity to assist in the drainage process. Clamping the tube when the client is ambulating can cause a buildup of pressure in the chest drainage system, potentially leading to complications. Carefully coiling the tubes is important to prevent obstructions and kinks that could impede the flow of drainage. Positioning the client flat may not be ideal as it could hinder proper drainage and increase the risk of leaks in the tubing.
4. A client who experienced a femur fracture 8 hr ago now reports sudden onset dyspnea and severe chest pain. Which of the following actions should the nurse take first?
- A. Provide high-flow oxygen.
- B. Check the client for a positive Chvostek's sign.
- C. Administer an IV vasopressor medication.
- D. Monitor the client for headache.
Correct answer: A
Rationale: In this situation, the priority action is to provide high-flow oxygen to the client. Sudden onset dyspnea and severe chest pain can be indicative of a pulmonary embolism, which is a life-threatening emergency. Oxygen therapy helps improve oxygenation and stabilizes the client's condition. Checking for Chvostek's sign, administering IV vasopressors, or monitoring for a headache are not the immediate priorities in this critical situation.
5. During an assessment of the respiratory pattern of an older adult client receiving end-of-life care, which of the following assessment findings should the nurse identify as Cheyne-Stokes respirations?
- A. Breathing ranging from very deep to very shallow with periods of apnea
- B. Shallow to normal breaths alternating with periods of apnea
- C. Rapid respirations that are unusually deep and regular
- D. An inability to breathe without dyspnea unless sitting upright
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Cheyne-Stokes respirations are characterized by a pattern of breathing that ranges from very deep to very shallow with periods of apnea (temporary cessation of breathing). This pattern is often seen in clients near the end of life or with certain medical conditions affecting the respiratory control center in the brain. The alternating deep and shallow breaths can be distressing for both the client and caregivers. It is crucial for the nurse to recognize this pattern to provide appropriate care and support to the client and their family during this challenging time.
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