AG-ACNP Nurse Exam Prep practice questions and answers 2026. Tap an option to test yourself — you'll see the correct answer and a plain-English explanation for every question. Free, no login.
Q11What is a primary cause of pericarditis?
✓ Correct answer: D. Viral infection
One primary cause of pericarditis is a viral infection that affects the pericardium, leading to inflammation and chest pain.
Q12What role do inflammatory markers play in diagnosing myocarditis, and how are they measured?
✓ Correct answer: D. Inflammatory markers such as C-reactive protein (CRP) and troponin levels are elevated in myocarditis. Diagnostic imaging like cardiac MRI can show inflammation and structural abnormalities. Blood tests are used to measure inflammatory markers and confirm the diagnosis.
Inflammatory markers, specifically C-reactive protein (CRP) and troponin levels, are key indicators in the diagnosis of myocarditis. Elevated levels of these markers suggest inflammation of the heart muscle. Cardiac MRI provides detailed imaging to confirm inflammation and structural abnormalities. Blood tests measure the levels of these markers, aiding in diagnosis.
Q13What are three advantages of robotic-assisted cardiac surgery?
✓ Correct answer: C. Enhanced precision, smaller incisions, and faster recovery time
Robotic-assisted cardiac surgery offers several advantages including enhanced precision, reduced blood loss, smaller incisions, faster recovery time, and less physical strain on the surgeon. These benefits can lead to better overall outcomes and shorter hospital stays for patients. The suitability of the procedure will depend on the patient's specific heart condition and overall health.
Q14What does the nurse monitor after coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery in relation to the chest tube insertion site?
✓ Correct answer: B. Infection, drainage volume, and bleeding
In relation to the chest tube insertion site after CABG surgery, the nurse monitors for infection, drainage volume, bleeding, and pain. Vital signs, respiratory status, and fluid balance are also monitored post-surgery.
Q15Why is it crucial for a patient to control blood glucose levels before undergoing open heart surgery?
✓ Correct answer: A. It can delay wound healing and increase infection risk
High blood glucose levels can delay wound healing and increase the risk of infection, making it important to manage blood glucose levels before open heart surgery. Additionally, controlling glucose levels can help optimize overall surgical outcomes and reduce complications.
Q16Patients undergoing coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) are at risk of complications such as myocardial infarction, ____, and renal failure. Fill in the blank.
✓ Correct answer: C. Stroke
The risks associated with coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) include myocardial infarction, stroke, renal failure, bleeding, and infection. It is essential to monitor the patient for these complications post-operatively.
Q17A 68-year-old patient with a history of arthritis and recurring episodes of chest pain has a normal EKG. Which diagnostic test should the nurse practitioner use to assess for a myocardial infarction that cannot be identified by EKG changes?
✓ Correct answer: B. Troponin levels
In cases of NSTEMI, the EKG may not show typical ST segment changes. Therefore, troponin levels are crucial as they are sensitive biomarkers indicating myocardial injury. Other tests like EKG stress tests or Holter monitors primarily evaluate electrical or rhythm changes and are not directly indicative of myocardial infarction.
Q18What is an aortic dissection?
✓ Correct answer: D. a tear in the inner layer of the aorta causing blood to flow between the layers
An aortic dissection occurs when there is a tear in the inner layer of the aorta, causing blood to flow between the layers of the aorta wall and forcing the layers apart. This can lead to a rupture or decreased blood flow to organs.
Q19What is the medical term for an endovascular procedure used to remove blood clots from arteries?
✓ Correct answer: C. Thrombectomy
The medical term for an endovascular procedure used to remove blood clots from arteries is thrombectomy. This involves inserting a catheter into the artery and using a device to remove the clot.
Q20Which of the following is NOT a type of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID)? I. Ibuprofen II. Aspirin III. Amoxicillin
✓ Correct answer: B. III
Amoxicillin is an antibiotic used to treat bacterial infections.
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