what is the first step in providing health care for a patient

ATI RN

ATI RN Custom Exams Set 1

1. What is the FIRST step in providing health care for a patient?

A. Obtain and interpret vital signs
B. Determine the needs of the patient
C. Develop a plan of care
D. Obtain lab work and x-rays

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct first step in providing health care for a patient is to determine the needs of the patient. Understanding the patient's requirements, concerns, and medical history is crucial before proceeding with any further steps. Option A, 'Obtain and interpret vital signs,' may be necessary but typically follows assessing the patient's needs. Option C, 'Develop a plan of care,' comes after identifying the patient's needs. Option D, 'Obtain lab work and x-rays,' is usually done based on the patient's needs and the developed plan of care, making it a later step in the process.

2. The nurse on the postsurgical unit received a client who was transferred from the post-anesthesia care unit (PACU) and is planning care for this client. The nurse understands that staff should begin planning for this client’s discharge at which point during the hospitalization?

A. Is admitted to the surgical unit
B. Is transferred from the PACU to the postsurgical unit
C. Is able to perform activities of daily living independently
D. Has been assessed by the healthcare provider for the first time after surgery

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Discharge planning should begin as soon as the patient is admitted to the surgical unit to ensure a smooth transition. It is important to start early to address any potential barriers to discharge, coordinate resources, and provide adequate education and support. Choices B, C, and D are not the appropriate points to start discharge planning as they do not mark the beginning of the hospitalization phase related to the surgical unit.

3. What is the best way to manage a patient's intake of dietary fiber?

A. Increase intake gradually
B. Increase intake suddenly
C. Decrease intake abruptly
D. Maintain a high intake

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The best way to manage a patient's intake of dietary fiber is to increase it gradually. This approach helps prevent gastrointestinal discomfort that may arise from a sudden increase in fiber intake. Choice B is incorrect because increasing intake suddenly can lead to digestive issues. Choice C is incorrect as decreasing fiber intake abruptly may not be necessary and can impact overall health. Choice D is incorrect as maintaining a high intake without considering the patient's current intake level can also cause digestive problems.

4. In which situation(s) can personal health information be disclosed?

A. Compliance with legal proceedings
B. For research purposes in limited circumstances
C. To a family member or significant other in an emergency
D. All of the above

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Personal health information can be disclosed in various situations. Compliance with legal proceedings allows for disclosure under specific legal requirements. Disclosure for research purposes is permitted in limited circumstances with appropriate approvals. In emergencies, information can be shared with family members or significant others. Therefore, all of the choices are correct as they represent valid scenarios for disclosing personal health information.

5. The nurse is caring for clients on a cardiac floor. Which client should the nurse assess first?

A. The client with three (3) unifocal PVCs in a minute
B. The client diagnosed with coronary artery disease who wants to ambulate
C. The client diagnosed with mitral valve prolapse with an audible S3
D. The client diagnosed with pericarditis who is in normal sinus rhythm

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C because an audible S3 in a client with mitral valve prolapse could indicate heart failure, which requires immediate assessment. Choice A is less urgent as occasional unifocal PVCs are common. Choice B is important but can be addressed after the client with an audible S3. Choice D, a client with pericarditis in normal sinus rhythm, is stable compared to a client with potential heart failure symptoms.