ATI MED SURG Proctored Exam Practice
Questions and Answers with Rationale ATI
Exam 2026 Nclex Questions
1. Heart Failure
A client with left-sided heart failure reports dyspnea and cough with frothy sputum. What is the
priority action?
A. Administer oxygen
B. Place in supine position
C. Encourage fluids
D. Give antipyretics
Answer: A
Rationale: Oxygen improves hypoxia caused by pulmonary congestion.
2. COPD
Which finding is expected in a client with COPD?
A. Bradycardia
B. Barrel chest
C. Hypocapnia
D. Increased oxygen saturation
Answer: B
Rationale: Air trapping causes hyperinflated lungs → barrel chest.
3. Myocardial Infarction
Priority intervention for chest pain?
A. Give morphine
B. Obtain ECG
C. Check bowel sounds
D. Encourage walking
, ATI MED SURG Proctored Exam Practice Questions and Answers with Rationale 2026
Answer: B
Rationale: ECG confirms ischemia/infarction immediately.
4. Stroke
Which sign indicates ischemic stroke?
A. Sudden severe headache
B. Unilateral weakness
C. Fever
D. Bradycardia
Answer: B
Rationale: Focal neurological deficit is classic.
5. Diabetes
Which indicates hypoglycemia?
A. Polyuria
B. Fruity breath
C. Tremors and sweating
D. Kussmaul breathing
Answer: C
Rationale: Adrenergic response to low glucose.
6. DKA
Priority treatment?
A. IV insulin
B. Oral glucose
C. Fluid restriction
D. Heparin
Answer: A
Rationale: Insulin corrects hyperglycemia and ketosis.
, ATI MED SURG Proctored Exam Practice Questions and Answers with Rationale 2026
7. Hyperkalemia
Which ECG change is expected?
A. U waves
B. Peaked T waves
C. ST elevation
D. Prolonged QT
Answer: B
Rationale: Classic hyperkalemia sign.
8. Hypokalemia
Manifestation?
A. Bradycardia
B. Muscle weakness
C. Hyperreflexia
D. Tetany only
Answer: B
Rationale: Low K+ reduces neuromuscular function.
9. Pneumonia
Best nursing intervention?
A. Supine rest
B. Incentive spirometry
C. Fluid restriction
D. Oxygen avoidance
Answer: B
Rationale: Promotes lung expansion.