ATI Comprehensive Exit Exam 2025 Study Guide:
High-Yield Nursing Practice Questions, In-Depth
Rationales, and Expert Tips to Pass the Final
Exam on Your First Try
1) The nurse is providing teaching to a client who has mild persistent asthma and
has been prescribed montelukast. Which of the following statements should the
nurse1 include in teaching?
a) This medication can be used to help you when have an acute asthma attack
b) This medication should be taken before exercise and physical activity
c) This medication can be taken for 10 days and then gradually discontinued
**d) This medication helps decrease swelling and mucus production**
Rationale: Montelukast is a leukotriene receptor antagonist, primarily used as a long-
term control medication for asthma. Its mechanism of action involves blocking
leukotrienes, which are inflammatory mediators that contribute to airway swelling
(edema), mucus production, and bronchoconstriction in asthma. Therefore, teaching
that this medication helps decrease swelling and mucus production accurately
describes its therapeutic effect. It is not for acute attacks, nor is it taken just before
exercise for immediate relief (though it helps prevent exercise-induced symptoms with
regular use), and it's a daily maintenance drug, not for short-term use.
2) A nurse on the medical surgical unit is receiving reports on four clients. Which of
the following client should the nurse assess first?
a) A client who is receiving warfarin and has an INR of 3.3
b) A client who has an acute kidney injury, a creatinine of 4 mg/dL, and a BUN 52 mg/dL
c) A client who had an NG tube inserted 6 hr ago and has abdominal distention
**d) A client who is 4 hr postoperative following a thyroidectomy and reports fullness in
the back of the throat**
Rationale: The nursing priority is to assess the client with potential airway compromise.
A report of "fullness in the back of the throat" after a thyroidectomy is a critical sign that
could indicate a developing hematoma or swelling compressing the trachea, leading to
airway obstruction. This is an immediate, life-threatening emergency. While the other
conditions require attention (elevated INR, acute kidney injury, abdominal distention
