Critical Thinking Cards for ATI Proctored Exam Questions and Answers | Latest Version | 2025/2026 | Correct & Verified

Critical Thinking Cards for ATI Proctored Exam Questions and Answers | Latest Version | 2025/2026 | Correct & Verified A client becomes disoriented after surgery. What is the nurse’s priority? Assess oxygenation and level of consciousness The nurse walks into a patient’s room and sees a small fire in the trash can. What is the first action? Remove the client from the room The nurse notices that a client’s IV site is red and swollen. What should the nurse do first? Stop the IV infusion A confused patient is trying to get out of bed without assistance. What should the nurse do? Place the bed alarm and stay nearby to ensure safety A client has just received a new diagnosis of cancer and is silent. What is the nurse’s best response? 2 Sit with the client quietly and offer presence A postoperative client has a respiratory rate of 8 breaths per minute after receiving opioids. What is the immediate action? Assess responsiveness and prepare to administer naloxone A nurse sees a coworker administer medication without scanning the patient's armband. What should the nurse do? Remind the coworker to scan and follow facility policy A client receiving tube feeding starts coughing and gagging. What is the nurse’s priority action? Stop the feeding and assess for aspiration A nurse is unsure about how to perform a sterile dressing change. What is the most appropriate step? Ask for assistance or clarification before starting A patient says, “I don’t understand why I need this medication.” What should the nurse do? 3 Provide further explanation and assess understanding A new medication is ordered for a patient with a known allergy. What should the nurse do first? Do not give the medication and notify the provider A nurse finds a client lying on the floor. What is the first action? Assess the client for injuries before moving them A client is on contact precautions but visitors are entering without PPE. What should the nurse do? Educate the visitors about proper protective equipment A patient refuses to take a prescribed medication. What is the nurse's first step? Ask the client why they are refusing the medication The nurse sees another nurse documenting care that was not given. What is the best action? Report the incident to the supervisor or manager 4 A client scheduled for discharge does not understand