ATI LPN
Pharmacology and the Nursing Process 10th Edition Test Bank
Chapter 19 : Adrenergic-Blocking Drugs Questions
Question 1 of 5
During rounds, the nurse notes that a dobutamine infusion has extravasated into the forearm of a patient. After stopping the infusion, the nurse follows standing orders and immediately injects phentolamine subcutaneously in a circular fashion around the extravasation site. What is the mechanism of action of the phentolamine in this situation?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Phentolamine, an alpha blocker, causes vasodilation by blocking alpha-adrenergic receptors, increasing blood flow to the ischemic site of dobutamine extravasation to prevent tissue damage. It does not neutralize dobutamine, cause vasoconstriction, or increase peripheral vascular resistance.
Question 2 of 5
A 58-year-old man has had a myocardial infarction, has begun rehabilitation, and is ready for discharge. He is given a prescription for metoprolol and becomes upset after reading the patient education pamphlet. 'I don't have high blood pressure - why did my doctor give me this medicine?' Which explanation by the nurse is correct?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Metoprolol, a beta blocker, is prescribed post-myocardial infarction for its cardioprotective effects, reducing mortality by decreasing cardiac workload and arrhythmias. It does not primarily prevent blood clots, improve renal blood flow, or prevent post-MI hypertension.
Question 3 of 5
The teaching for a patient who is taking tamsulosin to reduce urinary obstruction due to benign prostatic hyperplasia will include which of these?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Tamsulosin, an alpha blocker, can cause orthostatic hypotension, so patients should stand up slowly to avoid dizziness and falls. Fluid restriction is not required, timing with breakfast is not necessary, and tamsulosin causes hypotension, not hypertension.
Question 4 of 5
The nurse is screening a patient who will be taking a nonspecific/nonselective beta blocker. Which condition, if present, may cause serious problems if the patient takes this medication?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Nonselective beta blockers can cause bronchoconstriction by blocking beta-2 receptors in the lungs, worsening asthma. They are used to treat angina and hypertension, and glaucoma is not a contraindication.
Question 5 of 5
A patient is experiencing Class II heart failure. The nurse expects which beta blocker to be ordered for this patient?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Carvedilol is indicated for heart failure due to its combined beta and alpha-blocking effects, which reduce cardiac workload and improve outcomes. Atenolol, labetalol, and esmolol are not typically used for heart failure.