this is a test that measures the electrical activity of the heart over a period of time typically 24 to 48 hours
Logo

Nursing Elites

ATI RN

Cardiovascular System Exam Questions

1. 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.

2. What is a condition characterized by an abnormal buildup of fluid between the layers of tissue lining the lungs and chest cavity?

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Pleural effusion is the correct answer as it refers to the accumulation of excess fluid between the layers of the pleura surrounding the lungs and chest cavity. This condition can be caused by various factors such as infections, heart failure, or cancer. Pulmonary edema (choice B) involves fluid accumulation in the lungs' air sacs and is not specific to the pleura. Atelectasis (choice C) is the collapse or closure of a lung leading to airless lung tissue and is not related to fluid buildup. Sarcoidosis (choice D) is a condition characterized by the growth of tiny collections of inflammatory cells in different parts of the body, not specifically involving fluid accumulation in the pleural space.

3. What type of therapy delivers high concentrations of oxygen to the lungs?

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Oxygen therapy is the correct answer because it specifically refers to a treatment that delivers high concentrations of oxygen to the lungs. This therapy is used for patients who require additional oxygen due to conditions affecting their breathing. Ventilator therapy (B), mechanical ventilation (C), and CPAP therapy (D) involve different mechanisms and purposes than delivering high concentrations of oxygen to the lungs.

4. What procedure uses a catheter to open blocked coronary arteries and improve blood flow to the heart muscle?

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A, Angioplasty. Angioplasty is a procedure where a catheter is used to open blocked coronary arteries and may involve the insertion of a stent to improve blood flow to the heart muscle. Stent placement (B) is a related procedure but specifically refers to the insertion of a stent. Coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) (C) is a surgical procedure that uses blood vessels to bypass blocked coronary arteries. Valve replacement (D) is a different procedure that involves replacing a heart valve, not opening blocked coronary arteries.

5. The client is on a beta blocker for hypertension. What should the nurse monitor for?

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Corrected Rationale: When a client is on a beta blocker for hypertension, the nurse should monitor for bradycardia. Beta blockers are known to decrease heart rate, which can lead to bradycardia. Tachycardia (choice B) is unlikely as beta blockers have the opposite effect. Hypertension (choice C) is the condition being treated, not a side effect of beta blockers. Respiratory distress (choice D) is not a common effect of beta blockers and is not typically monitored in clients taking beta blockers.

Similar Questions

What is a condition where the coronary arteries become narrowed or blocked, leading to reduced blood flow to the heart muscle?
Which of the following is a chronic condition where the heart muscle is weakened and unable to pump blood effectively, often leading to heart failure?
Which type of medication helps to reduce the workload on the heart by slowing down the heart rate?
What is a condition where the arteries that supply blood to the heart muscle become hardened and narrowed due to the buildup of plaque?
What is a condition where the heart beats with an irregular or abnormal rhythm?

Access More Features

ATI RN Basic
$69.99/ 30 days

  • 5,000 Questions with answers
  • All ATI courses Coverage
  • 30 days access

ATI RN Premium
$149.99/ 90 days

  • 5,000 Questions with answers
  • All ATI courses Coverage
  • 30 days access

Other Courses