ATI RN
Pharmacology ATI Test Bank Questions
Question 1 of 5
A client with juvenile pilocytic astrocytoma who is receiving dexamethasone (Decadron) 4mg/IV
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Juvenile pilocytic astrocytoma is a type of brain tumor that can cause neurological symptoms such as changes in cognition and personality. A sudden change in the client no longer recognizing a family member could indicate a worsening of the tumor or potential complications from the treatment with dexamethasone. This change in cognition should raise immediate concern for the nurse as it may signal a decline in the client's neurological status requiring prompt assessment and intervention. The other options are also important to monitor, but the change in cognition is the most concerning as it suggests a more immediate and potentially serious issue.
Question 2 of 5
A patient with a history of HF presents to the emergency department with difficulty breathing, cough, and edema of the lower extremities. The nurse anticipates administration of which type of medication?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: A patient with a history of heart failure (HF) presenting with difficulty breathing, cough, and lower extremity edema is likely experiencing decompensated HF, which is characterized by a decrease in cardiac output and inadequate tissue perfusion. Positive inotropes are medications that increase cardiac contractility, helping to improve the heart's pumping ability. By administering a positive inotrope, such as dobutamine or milrinone, the nurse can help enhance the heart's contractility, increase cardiac output, and improve overall tissue perfusion in the patient with decompensated HF. This can help alleviate symptoms such as difficulty breathing and edema in the lower extremities.
Question 3 of 5
A patient has been diagnosed with angina and will be given a prescription for sublingual nitroglycerin tablets. When teaching the patient how to use sublingual nitroglycerin, the nurse will include which instruction?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: When teaching a patient how to use sublingual nitroglycerin, it is essential to include the instruction that if the chest pain is not relieved after one tablet, they should call 911 immediately. This is because persistent chest pain could indicate a serious cardiac event, such as a heart attack, that requires immediate medical attention. It is not advisable to take multiple doses without consulting a healthcare provider, as this can lead to complications. The patient should seek emergency medical help if their symptoms are not relieved after taking one tablet of sublingual nitroglycerin.
Question 4 of 5
Which nursing diagnosis is appropriate for a patient receiving antidysrhythmics?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: When a patient is receiving antidysrhythmics, there is a risk of fluid and electrolyte disturbances due to the medication's effects on the heart's electrical activity. Antidysrhythmics can cause arrhythmias, which can impact cardiac output and blood pressure, potentially leading to fluid volume deficits. It is essential for nurses to monitor the patient's fluid balance closely and address any deficits promptly to prevent complications.
Therefore, the nursing diagnosis of Deficient fluid volume is most appropriate for a patient receiving antidysrhythmics.
Question 5 of 5
During a blood transfusion, the patient begins to have chills and back pain. What is the nurse™s priority action?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The nurse's priority action would be to discontinue the infusion immediately and notify the prescriber. The patient developing chills and back pain during a blood transfusion may be signs of a transfusion reaction, possibly indicating an incompatibility or adverse reaction to the blood product. It is crucial to stop the transfusion to prevent further complications and to notify the prescriber immediately so that appropriate interventions can be initiated promptly. Observing for other symptoms and slowing the infusion rate are secondary actions compared to discontinuing the infusion and informing the prescriber in this situation. Telling the patient that these symptoms are a normal reaction to the blood product is incorrect as the symptoms could indicate a serious issue that needs to be addressed promptly.