ATI RN
2019 ATI Pharmacology Proctored Exam Questions
Question 1 of 5
The patient is discharged home and returns to the emergency department 4 days later. The patient is admitted to the ICU with acute decompensated HF with dyspnea at rest. The nurse anticipates administration of which medication?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: In the scenario described, the patient presents with acute decompensated heart failure (HF) with dyspnea at rest, indicating severe symptoms. Nesiritide, a recombinant B-type natriuretic peptide, is commonly used in the management of acute decompensated HF to improve symptoms of dyspnea and congestion. It acts as a vasodilator and promotes natriuresis and diuresis, helping to alleviate the symptoms of heart failure exacerbation. While other medications like Carvedilol (Coreg) and Lisinopril (Prinivil) are commonly used in chronic HF management, in this acute scenario with severe symptoms, Nesiritide would be the appropriate medication to anticipate for administration in the ICU setting. Atropine is not indicated for acute decompensated heart failure.
Question 2 of 5
A patient has been started on therapy of a continuous infusion of lidocaine after receiving a loading dose of the drug. The nurse will monitor the patient for which adverse effect?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Lidocaine is a local anesthetic that can have systemic effects if levels become toxic. Continuous infusion of lidocaine can lead to lidocaine toxicity, which can manifest as adverse effects including convulsions, altered mental status, confusion, seizures, and cardiac arrhythmias. Monitoring for signs of lidocaine toxicity, such as convulsions, is crucial when a patient is receiving continuous lidocaine infusion. It is important for the nurse to closely monitor the patient's neurological status and vital signs to promptly recognize and manage any adverse effects.
Question 3 of 5
A patient is in the emergency department with new-onset atrial fibrillation. Which order for digoxin would most likely have the fastest therapeutic effect?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: When a patient requires immediate treatment for atrial fibrillation with digoxin, the fastest way to achieve a therapeutic effect is through intravenous administration. Option D, Digoxin 1 mg IV push now; then 0.25 mg IV daily, is the most appropriate order in this scenario. Intravenous administration allows for rapid absorption and onset of action, making it the preferred route for urgent situations like atrial fibrillation. By giving an initial loading dose intravenously, followed by a lower maintenance dose IV daily or orally, the patient can quickly achieve therapeutic digoxin levels to help stabilize the heart rhythm. Option D provides the most rapid and effective way to manage new-onset atrial fibrillation with digoxin.
Question 4 of 5
When a patient is experiencing digoxin toxicity, which clinical situation would necessitate the use
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: When a patient is experiencing digoxin toxicity, severe sinus bradycardia that does not respond to cardiac pacing is a clinical situation that would necessitate the use of digoxin-specific antibody fragments (Digibind). This intervention is required to counteract the toxic effects of digoxin on the heart, especially in cases of severe bradycardia that can compromise cardiac output and lead to serious consequences. In this scenario, Digibind works by binding to digoxin molecules, thereby neutralizing their effects and helping to restore normal cardiac function.
Question 5 of 5
What nursing interventions should you do when a patient is on Albuterol (select all that apply)
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: A. Assess lung sounds, Pulse, and Blood pressure before administering: It is important to assess the patient's baseline lung sounds, pulse rate, and blood pressure before administering Albuterol to monitor for any changes that may occur after administration. This is crucial in determining the effectiveness of the medication and detecting any potential side effects.