this is a condition where the blood pressure in the arteries is consistently too high increasing the risk of heart disease and stroke
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Nursing Elites

ATI RN

Cardiovascular System Practice Exam

1. What is a condition where the blood pressure in the arteries is consistently too high, increasing the risk of heart disease and stroke?

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Hypertension, also known as high blood pressure, is a condition where the force of the blood against the artery walls is consistently too high. This increased pressure can lead to serious health issues such as heart disease and stroke. Hypotension (choice B) refers to low blood pressure, which is not the correct term in this context. Diabetes (choice C) and hyperlipidemia (choice D) are also serious conditions but are not specifically characterized by consistently high blood pressure.

2. What test measures the electrical activity of the heart over a period of time, typically 24 to 48 hours?

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A, Holter monitor. A Holter monitor is a portable device that records the electrical activity of the heart over a period of 24 to 48 hours. It is used to detect arrhythmias and other heart conditions. Choice B, Echocardiogram, is a test that uses sound waves to create images of the heart's structure and function, not focused on the electrical activity. Choice C, Stress test, evaluates the heart's function under stress but does not monitor electrical activity over an extended period. Choice D, Arterial blood gas (ABG), measures the levels of oxygen and carbon dioxide in the blood, unrelated to measuring the electrical activity of the heart over time.

3. Which condition is characterized by the right ventricle of the heart failing due to increased pressure in the lungs, often caused by chronic lung disease?

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is Cor pulmonale, a condition where the right ventricle of the heart fails due to increased pressure in the lungs, commonly caused by chronic lung diseases like COPD. Pulmonary embolism (choice B) is a blockage in one of the pulmonary arteries in the lungs, usually caused by a blood clot. Aortic stenosis (choice C) is a narrowing of the aortic valve opening that restricts blood flow from the left ventricle to the aorta. Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (choice D) is a genetic condition where the heart muscle becomes abnormally thick, making it harder for the heart to pump blood.

4. A client on an ACE inhibitor reports a persistent cough. What is the nurse’s best response?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B. A persistent cough in a client on an ACE inhibitor may indicate a serious side effect that requires discontinuation of the medication. Instructing the client to report the cough to the healthcare provider is essential for proper evaluation and management. Choice A is incorrect because simply reassuring the client may delay necessary action. Choice C is incorrect as using a humidifier may not address the underlying cause of the cough. Choice D is incorrect because taking a cough suppressant without healthcare provider guidance may mask symptoms without addressing the cause.

5. The client asks about side effects of taking digoxin. How does the nurse respond?

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: 'Anorexia can be a side effect of digoxin.' Anorexia, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea are commonly known side effects of digoxin. Choice B, 'Tachycardia can be a side effect of digoxin,' is incorrect as digoxin is used to treat tachycardia, not cause it. Choice C, 'Constipation can be a side effect of digoxin,' is incorrect as constipation is not a typical side effect of digoxin. Choice D, 'Urinary retention can be a side effect of digoxin,' is also incorrect as urinary retention is not a common side effect associated with digoxin use.

Similar Questions

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Which of the following is a chronic respiratory disease characterized by the irreversible obstruction of airflow?
What is the term used to describe a condition where the blood flow to the brain is temporarily interrupted, often referred to as a 'mini-stroke'?
What is a surgical procedure to redirect blood flow around a blocked or narrowed artery, often involving the use of a graft from another part of the body?

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