ATI RN
ATI Pharmacology Study Guide PDF Questions
Question 1 of 5
Which of the following drugs used in cancer chemotherapy is most likely to be associated with cerebellar dysfunction?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Chemotherapy neurotoxicity varies. Cytarabine, at high doses, causes cerebellar ataxia and dysarthria via Purkinje cell damage, most likely here. Cyclophosphamide risks hemorrhagic cystitis, mitoxantrone cardiotoxicity, bleomycin lung fibrosis, and vincristine peripheral neuropathy, not cerebellar issues. Cytarabine's CNS penetration drives this toxicity, requiring dose monitoring in leukemia treatment.
Question 2 of 5
Which of the following is used to treat migraine headaches?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Beta blockers are commonly used in the treatment of migraine headaches. These medications work by blocking the action of certain chemicals that cause blood vessels to dilate. By helping to prevent blood vessel dilation and constriction, beta blockers can help reduce the frequency and severity of migraine attacks. Additionally, beta blockers are thought to interfere with the transmission of pain signals in the brain.
Question 3 of 5
Which assessment should the nurse prioritize for a client receiving total parenteral nutrition (TPN)?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: When a client receives total parenteral nutrition (TPN), monitoring blood glucose levels is critical due to the high glucose content in TPN solutions, which can lead to hyperglycemia. This condition arises because TPN delivers concentrated nutrients directly into the bloodstream, bypassing the digestive system, and the body may struggle to regulate sugar levels effectively without proper insulin response. Potassium levels, while important in overall electrolyte balance, are less immediately impacted by TPN compared to glucose, as potassium imbalances typically develop over time rather than acutely from TPN initiation. Mental status assessments are valuable for neurological conditions but lack direct relevance to TPN's metabolic effects. Similarly, blood pressure monitoring is essential for cardiovascular health but isn't the primary concern with TPN, as it doesn't directly influence hypertension or hypotension in the same way glucose dysregulation does. The focus on glucose stems from its rapid impact on the client's metabolic state, making it the priority assessment to prevent complications like hyperglycemia, which can escalate to severe outcomes if unaddressed. Regular monitoring ensures timely intervention, aligning with TPN's nutritional goals.
Question 4 of 5
After a severe auto accident, a patient has been taken to the trauma unit and has an estimated
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Packed red blood cells contain primarily red blood cells and are used to increase the patient's oxygen-carrying capacity. After a severe auto accident, the patient may experience blood loss and require a transfusion of packed red blood cells to improve oxygen delivery to tissues and organs. While other blood products like whole blood or fresh frozen plasma contain additional components (such as plasma proteins or clotting factors), packed red blood cells are specifically indicated to address oxygen-carrying needs in cases of significant blood loss or anemia.
Therefore, in the trauma unit for a patient following a severe auto accident, the nurse should prepare to administer packed red blood cells.
Question 5 of 5
Which medication is a glutamate receptor antagonist that can be used in combination with an acetylcholinesterase inhibitor to manage the symptoms of Alzheimer's disease?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Memantine, an NMDA glutamate receptor antagonist, manages Alzheimer's by reducing excitotoxicity from excessive glutamate, which contributes to neuronal damage in later stages. It complements acetylcholinesterase inhibitors (e.g., donepezil), which boost cholinergic function for memory, by targeting a different pathway, slowing progression and improving behavior. Rivastigmine and donepezil are acetylcholinesterase inhibitors, not glutamate antagonists. Ropinirole, a dopamine agonist, treats Parkinson's. Fluoxetine, an SSRI, addresses depression. Memantine's unique glutamate modulation, combined with cholinergic enhancement, offers a dual approach, supported by evidence for moderate-to-severe Alzheimer's management.