ATI RN
Final Exam Pathophysiology Questions
Question 1 of 5
A patient who is being administered isoniazid (INH) for tuberculosis has a yellow color in the sclera of her eye. What other finding would lead you to believe that hepatotoxicity has developed?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Diarrhea. Hepatotoxicity caused by isoniazid can present with various symptoms, including yellow discoloration of the sclera of the eyes, which indicates jaundice. Another common sign of hepatotoxicity is gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea, which can occur due to liver dysfunction affecting bile production and digestion. Numbness (choice
B) is more commonly associated with peripheral neuropathy caused by isoniazid, while diminished vision (choice
C) and light-colored stools (choice
D) are not typical manifestations of hepatotoxicity.
Question 2 of 5
During childhood, the thymus decreases in size, and this is referred to as ______ atrophy.
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A, 'Physiologic.' Physiologic atrophy is a normal part of development, like the reduction in thymus size during childhood. Pathologic atrophy (choice
B) refers to tissue wasting due to disease, not a normal process like the reduction in thymus size. Disuse atrophy (choice
C) results from a lack of physical activity or stimulation, which is not the case with thymus size reduction. Neurogenic atrophy (choice
D) is caused by damage to or diseases of the nerves supplying the muscles, not related to the thymus size reduction seen in childhood.
Question 3 of 5
A patient with a history of osteoporosis is prescribed alendronate (Fosamax). What instructions should the nurse provide to ensure the effectiveness of the medication?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A. Alendronate should be taken with a full glass of water and patients should remain upright for at least 30 minutes to prevent esophageal irritation and ensure proper absorption. Taking the medication with milk (choice
B) is not recommended as it may interfere with the absorption of alendronate. Taking the medication at bedtime (choice
C) is not necessary for optimal absorption. Taking the medication with food (choice
D) is also not recommended as food can reduce the absorption of alendronate.
Question 4 of 5
A patient has developed a decubitus ulcer on the coccyx. What defense mechanism is most affected by this homeostatic change?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: In this scenario, a decubitus ulcer on the coccyx indicates a breakdown of the skin's integrity due to prolonged pressure. The skin is the primary defense mechanism of the body against external pathogens. When the skin is compromised, it can lead to infections and other complications. The mucous membrane (
Choice
A) plays a role in protecting internal surfaces, not the skin. The respiratory tract (
Choice
B) is involved in breathing and not directly related to the skin's defense. The gastrointestinal tract (
Choice
D) is responsible for digestion and absorption of nutrients, not the primary defense mechanism against external threats like the skin.
Question 5 of 5
A 69-year-old female patient has been diagnosed with malignant melanoma. The care team has collaborated with the patient and her family and agreed on a plan of care that includes administration of interferon alfa-2b. After administering interferon alfa-2b, the oncology nurse should anticipate that the patient may develop which of the following adverse effects?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: After the administration of interferon alfa-2b, the patient may develop flu-like symptoms as an adverse effect. Flu-like symptoms are commonly associated with interferon therapy, including fever, chills, fatigue, and muscle aches. These symptoms usually subside over time. Options A, B, and D are not typically associated with interferon alfa-2b administration. Profound diaphoresis is excessive sweating, decreased level of consciousness indicates neurological issues, and cyanosis and pallor suggest circulatory or respiratory problems, none of which are expected adverse effects of interferon alfa-2b.