ATI RN
Cardiovascular System Exam Questions
1. What is a condition where the heart beats with an irregular or abnormal rhythm?
- A. Arrhythmia
- B. Hypertension
- C. Tachycardia
- D. Bradycardia
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Arrhythmia is the correct answer because it refers to an irregular or abnormal heart rhythm, which can cause the heart to beat too fast, too slow, or erratically. Hypertension (choice B) is high blood pressure and not directly related to irregular heart rhythm. Tachycardia (choice C) is a condition where the heart beats too quickly, not necessarily irregularly. Bradycardia (choice D) is a condition where the heart beats too slowly, not necessarily irregularly. Therefore, only arrhythmia (choice A) fits the description provided in the question.
2. What is a chronic condition where the airways in the lungs become damaged and widened, leading to mucus buildup and frequent infections?
- A. Bronchiectasis
- B. Chronic bronchitis
- C. Pneumoconiosis
- D. Asthma
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Bronchiectasis is a chronic condition characterized by the damage and widening of the airways in the lungs, resulting in mucus accumulation and recurrent lung infections. Choice B, chronic bronchitis, involves inflammation of the bronchial tubes and excessive mucus production but does not specifically mention airway damage and widening. Choice C, pneumoconiosis, refers to lung diseases caused by inhalation of mineral dust particles, not airway damage and mucus buildup. Choice D, asthma, is a chronic condition characterized by airway inflammation and narrowing, leading to breathing difficulties, but it does not involve the widening and damage of the airways as seen in bronchiectasis.
3. What test evaluates the heart's response to physical stress, often involving exercise on a treadmill while monitoring the heart?
- A. Stress test
- B. Echocardiogram
- C. Holter monitor
- D. CT angiography
Correct answer: A
Rationale: A stress test, also known as an exercise stress test, evaluates the heart's response to physical stress by monitoring its activity during exercise, typically on a treadmill. This test helps assess the heart's performance, detect coronary artery disease, and evaluate the effectiveness of heart treatments. Echocardiogram (choice B) is an ultrasound of the heart that provides detailed images of the heart's structure and function, but it does not involve physical stress like a stress test. Holter monitor (choice C) is a device for continuously monitoring the heart's rhythm and rate over a period (usually 24-48 hours), not during exercise. CT angiography (choice D) is a diagnostic test that uses X-rays to visualize blood vessels but does not involve physical stress like a stress test.
4. What is a condition where a blood clot forms in a deep vein, usually in the legs, and can lead to serious complications if it travels to the lungs?
- A. Deep vein thrombosis (DVT)
- B. Pulmonary embolism
- C. Varicose veins
- D. Raynaud's disease
Correct answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A, Deep vein thrombosis (DVT). Deep vein thrombosis occurs when a blood clot forms in a deep vein, usually in the legs. If the clot dislodges and travels to the lungs, it can lead to a serious condition called a pulmonary embolism. Choice B, pulmonary embolism, is incorrect as it is the consequence of a DVT clot traveling to the lungs, not the initial condition. Choices C and D, varicose veins, and Raynaud's disease, respectively, are unrelated conditions to the formation of blood clots in deep veins.
5. A client on a beta blocker has a blood pressure of 90/60 mm Hg. What is the nurse’s priority action?
- A. Hold the beta blocker and notify the healthcare provider.
- B. Administer the beta blocker as ordered.
- C. Administer a diuretic to reduce blood pressure.
- D. Continue to monitor the client and reassess in 30 minutes.
Correct answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is to hold the beta blocker and notify the healthcare provider. A blood pressure of 90/60 mm Hg is already low, and beta blockers can further decrease blood pressure. Administering the beta blocker can potentially worsen the situation, leading to complications. Administering a diuretic or continuing to monitor the client without taking immediate action could delay necessary intervention. Therefore, holding the beta blocker and involving the healthcare provider promptly is crucial in this scenario.
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