ATI RN
ATI Practice Exam Pharmacology The Endocrine System Questions
Question 1 of 5
The nurse is monitoring a post-renal transplantation client taking cyclosporine (Neoral). The nurse observes an elevation in one of the client's vital signs and the client is complaining of sweating and
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Cyclosporine is an immunosuppressant medication commonly used in post-renal transplantation clients to prevent organ rejection. One of the common side effects of cyclosporine is hypertension, which can lead to an elevation in pulse rate. The increase in pulse rate is a compensatory mechanism by the body in response to increased blood pressure. Additionally, sweating can also be a side effect of cyclosporine, adding to the client's discomfort.
Therefore, when a nurse observes an elevation in pulse rate along with sweating in a post-renal transplantation client taking cyclosporine, it is important to monitor closely for signs of hypertension and assess the need for further evaluation or intervention.
Question 2 of 5
Two days after admission, the nurse is reviewing laboratory results of the patient. Which is the most common electrolyte finding resulting from the administration of furosemide (Lasix)?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Furosemide (Lasix) is a loop diuretic commonly used to treat conditions such as edema and hypertension by increasing urine output. One of the most common electrolyte imbalances associated with the use of furosemide is hypokalemia, which is a low level of potassium in the blood. This occurs because furosemide increases the excretion of potassium in the urine by inhibiting its reabsorption in the kidneys. Hypokalemia can lead to various symptoms such as muscle weakness, cramps, and cardiac arrhythmias, making it important for healthcare providers to monitor potassium levels closely in patients receiving furosemide.
Question 3 of 5
A patient is concerned about the adverse effects of the fibric acid derivative she is taking to lower her cholesterol level. Which is an adverse effect of this class of medication?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Fibric acid derivatives, also known as fibrates, are a class of medications commonly used to lower cholesterol levels. One of the potential adverse effects of fibric acid derivatives is joint pain. Patients taking these medications may experience muscle and joint pain, also known as myalgia and arthralgia. It is important for patients to report any new or worsening joint pain while taking fibric acid derivatives to their healthcare provider for further evaluation and management.
Question 4 of 5
When administering a loop diuretic to a patient, it is most important for the nurse to determine if the patient is also taking which drug?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Loop diuretics, such as furosemide, can interact with theophylline, a medication commonly used to treat asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COP
D). When both drugs are taken together, it can lead to an increased risk of theophylline toxicity due to decreased theophylline clearance. This can result in symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, seizures, and cardiac arrhythmias.
Therefore, it is crucial for the nurse to determine if the patient is taking theophylline before administering a loop diuretic to prevent potential drug interactions and adverse effects.
Question 5 of 5
The nurse is reviewing new medication orders for a patient who has an epidural catheter for pain relief. One of the orders is for enoxaparin (Lovenox), a low“molecular-weight heparin (LMWH). What is the nurse™s priority action?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The priority action for the nurse in this situation is to contact the prescriber because the administration of LMWH (such as enoxaparin) is contraindicated in patients with epidural catheters due to the increased risk of spinal or epidural hematoma formation. Spinal or epidural hematoma can lead to serious neurologic complications, including paralysis.
Therefore, it is crucial for the nurse to verify the order with the prescriber and explore alternative anticoagulant options that are safe to use in patients with epidural catheters. Giving the LMWH as ordered without addressing this contraindication could result in harm to the patient.