ATI LPN
Pharmacology for LPN Questions
Question 1 of 5
The nurse is assisting with the care of a client who is on a continuous heparin infusion for deep vein thrombosis (DVT). Which laboratory test should the nurse monitor to evaluate the effectiveness of the therapy?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale:
To evaluate the effectiveness of heparin therapy in a client with DVT, the nurse should monitor the activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT). The aPTT test helps ensure that the dose of heparin is within the therapeutic range, which is essential for preventing clot formation or excessive bleeding. Monitoring aPTT is crucial in managing patients on heparin therapy to maintain the delicate balance between preventing thrombosis and avoiding hemorrhage. Prothrombin time (PT) and International normalized ratio (INR) are more indicative of warfarin therapy effectiveness, not heparin. Platelet count assesses platelet levels and function, not the effectiveness of heparin therapy for DVT.
Question 2 of 5
A client with hypertension is prescribed a thiazide diuretic. What instruction should the nurse reinforce to the client?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is to weigh oneself daily. This instruction is important as daily weights help monitor fluid loss and are crucial for detecting early signs of fluid imbalance when taking a diuretic. Weighing daily allows for timely adjustments in treatment and helps prevent complications associated with fluid imbalance.
Choice A is not directly related to the client's need for monitoring fluid balance.
Choice B, although important for some diuretics, is not specific to thiazide diuretics.
Choice D is not appropriate as limiting fluid intake without proper monitoring can lead to dehydration, especially when taking diuretics.
Question 3 of 5
The LPN/LVN is reinforcing discharge instructions to a client who has been prescribed nitroglycerin sublingual tablets for angina. Which statement by the client indicates a need for further teaching?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D. Nitroglycerin sublingual tablets should not be swallowed; they must dissolve under the tongue to be effective.
Choice A is correct as nitroglycerin tablets should be stored in their original glass container to prevent degradation.
Choice B is correct as sitting or lying down when taking a nitroglycerin tablet helps prevent dizziness or fainting due to a sudden drop in blood pressure.
Choice C is correct as taking a nitroglycerin tablet every 5 minutes for a maximum of 3 tablets is the correct protocol for managing angina symptoms.
Question 4 of 5
The client with deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is receiving anticoagulant therapy. Which laboratory test should the nurse monitor to evaluate the effectiveness of the therapy?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT) is the correct laboratory test to monitor the effectiveness of anticoagulant therapy, especially with heparin. A prolonged aPTT indicates effective anticoagulation, reducing the risk of further clot formation in the client with deep vein thrombosis (DVT). The other options, such as complete blood count (CB
C), serum electrolytes, and liver function tests, do not directly assess the therapeutic effectiveness of anticoagulant therapy.
Therefore, the correct answer is B.
Question 5 of 5
Prior to a cardiac catheterization, what instruction should the client be reminded of?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Being NPO (nothing by mouth) for 6 to 8 hours before a cardiac catheterization is crucial to prevent complications such as aspiration during the procedure. This helps ensure the safety and accuracy of the test results by minimizing the risk of food or liquid in the stomach interfering with the procedure.
Choice B is incorrect because the client will need to lie still during the procedure to ensure its accuracy.
Choice C is incorrect as the client is typically required to lie flat for a few hours after the test, not several hours.
Choice D is incorrect as the client is usually not allowed to drink fluids immediately before the test to prevent complications.