ATI RN
ATI Detailed Answer Key Medical Surgical
1. The healthcare provider is caring for a postoperative client who has a chest tube connected to suction and a water seal drainage system. Which of the following indicates to the healthcare provider that the chest tube is functioning properly?
- A. Fluctuation of the fluid level within the water seal chamber
- B. Absence of fluid in the drainage tubing
- C. Continuous bubbling within the water seal chamber
- D. Equal amounts of fluid drainage in each collection chamber
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Fluctuation of the fluid level within the water seal chamber indicates proper functioning of the chest tube. This fluctuation reflects the normal ebb and flow of air and fluid in the pleural space, demonstrating that the system is maintaining the appropriate pressure. Continuous bubbling in the water seal chamber may indicate an air leak, absence of fluid in the drainage tubing suggests a blockage, and equal amounts of fluid drainage in each collection chamber are not expected in this system.
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 nurse working on a cardiac unit delegated taking vital signs to an experienced unlicensed assistive personnel (UAP). Four hours later, the nurse notes the client's blood pressure is much higher than previous readings & the client's mental status has changed. What action by the nurse would most likely have prevented this negative outcome?
- A. Determining if the UAP knew how to take blood pressure
- B. Double-checking the UAP by taking another blood pressure
- C. Providing more appropriate supervision of the UAP
- D. Taking the blood pressure instead of delegating the task
Correct answer: C
Rationale: The most likely action by the nurse that would have prevented the negative outcome is providing more appropriate supervision of the UAP. Supervision is essential in delegation as it involves directing, evaluating, and following up on delegated tasks. By providing adequate supervision, the nurse can ensure that tasks are performed correctly and promptly identify any issues or abnormalities, such as a significant change in vital signs or the client's mental status. This proactive approach can help prevent adverse outcomes and enhance patient safety.
4. A client with a tracheostomy is being cared for by a nurse. The client's partner has been taught to perform suctioning. Which of the following actions by the partner should indicate to the nurse a readiness for the client's discharge?
- A. Attending a class on tracheostomy care
- B. Verbally explaining all steps in the procedure
- C. Performing the procedure independently
- D. Asking relevant questions about suctioning
Correct answer: C
Rationale: When the partner can independently perform the suctioning procedure, it demonstrates a readiness for the client's discharge. This indicates that the partner has acquired the necessary skills and knowledge to provide safe care for the client at home without the direct supervision of healthcare professionals.
5. A client in an emergency department has a sucking chest wound resulting from a gunshot. The client has a blood pressure of 100/60 mm Hg, a weak pulse rate of 118/min, and a respiratory rate of 40/min. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?
- A. Raise the foot of the bed to a 90� angle
- B. Remove the dressing to inspect the wound
- C. Prepare to insert a central line
- D. Administer oxygen via nasal cannula
Correct answer: D
Rationale: In a client with a sucking chest wound, the priority is to administer oxygen via nasal cannula to improve oxygenation. The client's blood pressure, weak pulse rate, and elevated respiratory rate indicate hypovolemic shock, so increasing oxygen supply is crucial. Raising the foot of the bed, removing the dressing, or preparing to insert a central line are not immediate actions needed for a client with a sucking chest wound and signs of shock.
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