ATI RN
Final Exam Pathophysiology
1. Why is a beta-blocker prescribed to a client with a history of myocardial infarction?
- A. To reduce myocardial oxygen demand.
- B. To increase cardiac output.
- C. To prevent arrhythmias.
- D. To prevent the development of angina.
Correct answer: A
Rationale: The primary reason for administering a beta-blocker to a client with a history of myocardial infarction is to reduce myocardial oxygen demand. By reducing myocardial oxygen demand, beta-blockers help decrease the workload on the heart, making it easier for the heart to function effectively. This is crucial for clients with a history of myocardial infarction to prevent further damage to the heart. Choice B is incorrect because beta-blockers do not aim to increase cardiac output; instead, they help improve cardiac function by reducing workload. Choice C is incorrect because while beta-blockers can help prevent certain arrhythmias, the primary reason for their use in this case is to reduce myocardial oxygen demand. Choice D is incorrect as preventing angina is not the primary purpose of administering beta-blockers to a client with a history of myocardial infarction.
2. During surgery, the anesthesia personnel notice the client is having a steady rise in end-tidal carbon dioxide level. At this time, the nurse anesthetist begins to assess the client for malignant hyperthermia. The initial (priority) assessment for this disorder may include:
- A. measuring serum potassium levels.
- B. monitoring for muscle rigidity.
- C. evaluating renal function.
- D. checking arterial blood gases.
Correct answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: monitoring for muscle rigidity. Muscle rigidity is a hallmark sign of malignant hyperthermia, a life-threatening condition triggered by certain anesthetics. Monitoring for this sign is critical in the early identification of the condition. Choices A, C, and D are not the initial priority assessments for malignant hyperthermia. Measuring serum potassium levels, evaluating renal function, and checking arterial blood gases are not specific initial assessments for malignant hyperthermia and would not aid in its early identification.
3. A female patient is concerned about the side effects of oral contraceptives. What should the nurse explain as a common side effect?
- A. Increased energy levels
- B. Decreased libido
- C. Weight gain
- D. Hair loss
Correct answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: Weight gain. Weight gain is a common side effect of oral contraceptives due to hormonal changes. It is essential for healthcare providers to inform patients about this possibility to manage expectations. Choice A, increased energy levels, is not a common side effect of oral contraceptives. Choice B, decreased libido, can be a side effect for some individuals but is not as common as weight gain. Choice D, hair loss, is not typically associated with oral contraceptives. Therefore, it is important for the nurse to address the patient's concerns by discussing the more prevalent side effects like weight gain.
4. What is a cause of the crystallization within the synovial fluid of the joint affected by gouty arthritis?
- A. Destruction of proteoglycans
- B. Underexcretion of uric acid
- C. Overexcretion of uric acid
- D. Increased absorption of uric acid
Correct answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Underexcretion of uric acid. Gouty arthritis is primarily caused by the underexcretion of uric acid, leading to its accumulation in joints and subsequent crystallization. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect as they do not directly relate to the pathophysiology of gout. Destruction of proteoglycans, overexcretion of uric acid, and increased absorption of uric acid are not primary causes of gouty arthritis.
5. What is the treatment for patients with hemophilia A?
- A. Chemotherapy
- B. Factor VIII replacement
- C. Heparin administration
- D. Bone marrow transplant
Correct answer: B
Rationale: The correct treatment for patients with hemophilia A is Factor VIII replacement. Hemophilia A is a genetic disorder where there is a deficiency in clotting factor VIII. Therefore, replacing this factor is crucial in managing and preventing bleeding episodes. Choice A, chemotherapy, is not the correct treatment for hemophilia A. Choice C, heparin administration, is not recommended as it can further increase the risk of bleeding in patients with hemophilia. Choice D, bone marrow transplant, is not a standard treatment for hemophilia A.
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