ATI RN
Intro to Pharmacology ATI Questions
Question 1 of 5
A 36-year-old man is brought to the emergency department after being involved in a one-car motor vehicle accident where his car struck a telephone pole. He is a known chronic alcoholic. He smells alcohol on his breath, and his blood alcohol level is 300 mg/dL. Which of the following treatments should be given to him if he goes into alcohol withdrawal?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Alcohol withdrawal in a chronic alcoholic (300 mg/dL) requires lorazepam . This benzodiazepine mimics alcohol's GABA enhancement, preventing seizures and agitation. Buspirone treats anxiety, not withdrawal. Pentobarbital is excessive. Phenytoin targets seizures alone. Saline (E) supports but doesn't treat. Lorazepam's safety is key.
Question 2 of 5
The client receives nystatin (Nilstat) for a fungal infection in the mouth. The nurse plans to do medication education prior to discharge. What will the best plan by the nurse include?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Nystatin is an antifungal used for oral candidiasis (thrush), and its effectiveness depends on proper administration. For oral infections, the medication must remain in contact with the affected mucosal surfaces as long as possible. Dissolving the tablet in the mouth ensures prolonged exposure to the fungus, allowing it to act locally before swallowing, which is the recommended method for tablets or lozenges. Using a straw might apply to suspensions but isn't standard for preventing discoloration, which isn't a primary concern with nystatin. Crushing and mixing with juice alters the drug's intended delivery, reducing contact time with the infection site. Swallowing whole bypasses the oral mucosa entirely, rendering it ineffective for thrush. Thus, choice A aligns with nystatin's mechanism, ensuring optimal therapeutic outcomes through direct mucosal contact.
Question 3 of 5
A patient is started on a diuretic for antihypertensive therapy. The nurse expects that a drug in which class is likely to be used initially?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Thiazide diuretics are commonly used as first-line therapy for hypertension. They are effective in reducing blood pressure by promoting diuresis and decreasing plasma volume. Thiazide diuretics work by inhibiting sodium and chloride reabsorption in the distal convoluted tubule of the nephron, leading to increased excretion of water and electrolytes. This helps to reduce blood volume and subsequently lower blood pressure. Thiazide diuretics are generally well-tolerated and effective, making them a preferred choice for initial antihypertensive therapy.
Question 4 of 5
The nurse is creating a plan of care for a patient with a new diagnosis of hypertension. Which is a potential nursing diagnosis for the patient taking antihypertensive medications?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Sexual dysfunction is a potential nursing diagnosis for a patient taking antihypertensive medications because certain classes of antihypertensive drugs, such as beta blockers and thiazide diuretics, have been known to cause sexual side effects. These effects may include erectile dysfunction in men and decreased libido or altered menstrual cycles in women. It is important for nurses to assess and address any sexual dysfunction concerns in patients on antihypertensive medications to improve quality of life and adherence to treatment. Diarrhea, urge urinary incontinence, and impaired memory are not typically associated with antihypertensive medications and would not be as relevant in this situation.
Question 5 of 5
Which area of the brain is primarily responsible for maintaining sleep and wakefulness?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The reticular activating system (RAS) in the brainstem regulates sleep-wake cycles, promoting alertness or rest, per neurophysiology. The cortex processes thought, not cycles. The limbic system drives emotion, not sleep directly. The cerebellum coordinates movement. RAS's role is central, controlling consciousness states.