ATI RN
ATI Medical Surgical Proctored Exam
1. When caring for a client with acute renal failure, which laboratory value is most important to monitor?
- A. Serum sodium
- B. Serum potassium
- C. Serum calcium
- D. Serum chloride
Correct answer: B
Rationale: In acute renal failure, monitoring serum potassium is crucial because impaired kidney function can lead to hyperkalemia, which can result in life-threatening cardiac dysrhythmias. Elevated potassium levels need close monitoring and prompt interventions to prevent serious complications.
2. A nurse is assessing a client for a suspected anaphylactic reaction following a CT scan with contrast media. For which of the following client findings should the nurse intervene first?
- A. Urticaria
- B. Stridor
- C. Vomiting
- D. Hypotension
Correct answer: B
Rationale:
3. A nursing student asks what essential hypertension is. What response by the registered nurse is best?
- A. It means it is caused by another disease.
- B. It means it is essential that it be treated.
- C. It is hypertension with no specific cause.
- D. It refers to severe and life-threatening hypertension.
Correct answer: C
Rationale: Essential hypertension, also known as primary or idiopathic hypertension, is the most common type of hypertension. It has no specific underlying cause such as an associated disease process. In contrast, hypertension that is due to another disease is referred to as secondary hypertension. Malignant hypertension is a severe and life-threatening form of hypertension characterized by rapidly progressive blood pressure elevation and potential end-organ damage.
4. A client with diabetes is experiencing symptoms of hypoglycemia. What should the nurse administer first?
- A. 10 units of regular insulin subcutaneously
- B. 50 mL of 50% dextrose solution intravenously
- C. 1 mg of glucagon intramuscularly
- D. 15-20 grams of fast-acting carbohydrate orally
Correct answer: D
Rationale: The correct first intervention for a client experiencing hypoglycemia is administering 15-20 grams of fast-acting carbohydrate orally. If the client is conscious and able to swallow, providing quick-acting carbohydrates helps raise blood glucose levels rapidly and effectively. This approach is preferred over other options like administering insulin, dextrose solution intravenously, or glucagon, which are not the initial interventions for hypoglycemia.
5. A client has an oxygen saturation of 88% on room air. Which action should the nurse take first?
- A. Initiate oxygen therapy at 2 liters per minute via nasal cannula.
- B. Place the client in a high-Fowler's position.
- C. Notify the healthcare provider.
- D. Document the finding in the client's medical record.
Correct answer: A
Rationale: The priority action for a client with an oxygen saturation of 88% on room air is to initiate oxygen therapy to improve oxygen saturation levels. Oxygen therapy is crucial to address hypoxemia promptly. Placing the client in a high-Fowler's position can also aid in oxygenation, but administering oxygen takes precedence. While notifying the healthcare provider is important, it is a secondary action after ensuring the client's immediate need for oxygen is met. Documenting the finding in the client's medical record is necessary for continuity of care but is not the primary intervention when addressing hypoxemia.
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