what are the complications of untreated hypertension

ATI LPN

ATI PN Comprehensive Predictor 2024

1. What are the complications of untreated hypertension?

A. Heart disease and stroke
B. Kidney failure and vision loss
C. Pulmonary embolism and arrhythmias
D. Blood clots and gastrointestinal bleeding

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: 'Heart disease and stroke.' Untreated hypertension can lead to various complications, including heart disease and stroke. These are common outcomes of long-term high blood pressure. Choice B, 'Kidney failure and vision loss,' is incorrect as kidney failure and vision loss are more commonly associated with diabetic complications rather than untreated hypertension. Choice C, 'Pulmonary embolism and arrhythmias,' while serious, are not among the primary complications of untreated hypertension. Choice D, 'Blood clots and gastrointestinal bleeding,' are not typical complications of untreated hypertension but can occur due to other conditions such as blood clotting disorders or gastrointestinal diseases.

2. What is the proper technique for measuring a patient's blood pressure?

A. Place the cuff at heart level and listen for Korotkoff sounds
B. Ensure the patient is in a seated position and inflate the cuff to 180 mmHg
C. Use a manual sphygmomanometer and measure blood pressure on both arms
D. Monitor pulse rate and apply pressure to the brachial artery

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct technique for measuring blood pressure involves placing the cuff at heart level to ensure accurate readings. Listening for Korotkoff sounds helps determine the systolic and diastolic pressures. Choice B is incorrect as inflating the cuff to 180 mmHg is excessive and can lead to inaccurate readings. Choice C is incorrect as it is unnecessary to measure blood pressure on both arms unless there is a specific medical reason to do so. Choice D is incorrect as monitoring pulse rate and applying pressure to the brachial artery are not part of the standard blood pressure measurement technique.

3. A nurse is planning an educational program for high school students about cigarette smoking. Which of the following potential consequences of smoking is most likely to discourage adolescents from using tobacco?

A. Use of tobacco might lead to alcohol and drug abuse.
B. Smoking in adolescence increases the risk of developing lung cancer later in life.
C. Use of tobacco decreases the level of athletic ability.
D. Smoking in adolescence increases the risk of lifelong addiction.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The most likely consequence to discourage adolescents from smoking is the immediate effect of decreased athletic ability. This consequence is more tangible and relevant to high school students compared to long-term health risks like lung cancer or addiction. While choices A, B, and D are all negative outcomes of smoking, choice C is more likely to have a direct impact on adolescents due to its immediate and visible effects on their physical performance.

4. A nurse is maintaining droplet precautions for a client who has meningitis. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

A. Wear a gown within 3 feet of the client
B. Maintain a distance of 6 feet from the client
C. Wear a surgical mask within 3 feet of the client
D. Remove gloves before leaving the room

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct action for the nurse to take when maintaining droplet precautions for a client with meningitis is to wear a surgical mask within 3 feet of the client. This is essential to prevent the transmission of meningitis via respiratory droplets. Choice A is incorrect because wearing a gown is not specifically required for droplet precautions. Choice B suggests maintaining a distance of 6 feet, which is more applicable to airborne precautions, not droplet precautions. Choice D is incorrect as gloves should be removed and disposed of properly, but it is not related to droplet precautions specifically.

5. A client with coronary artery disease (CAD) is being taught about lifestyle changes by a nurse. Which of the following instructions should the nurse include?

A. Increase your intake of red meat
B. Increase physical activity to 150 minutes per week
C. Avoid foods high in fiber
D. Increase sodium intake to 2,300 mg per day

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: 'Increase physical activity to 150 minutes per week.' Increasing physical activity is essential for clients with CAD as it helps reduce the risk of cardiovascular events. Choice A is incorrect as red meat is high in saturated fats, which can be detrimental for CAD. Choice C is incorrect as foods high in fiber, such as fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, are beneficial for heart health. Choice D is incorrect as increasing sodium intake can lead to hypertension and worsen CAD.