ATI RN
Pharmacology Practice Exam ATI Questions
Question 1 of 5
A female patient's central venous access device (CVAD) becomes infected. Why would the physician order antibiotics be given through the line rather than through a peripheral IV line?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Administering antibiotics through an infected central venous access device (CVA
D) is often done to attempt to sterilize the catheter and salvage it, avoiding the need for removal and replacement. This approach is particularly useful for certain types of infections. While peripheral IV administration may be less painful or reduce infiltration risks, the primary goal in this scenario is to treat the infection directly at the source.
Therefore, the correct rationale is to sterilize the catheter.
Question 2 of 5
The nurse administers IV furosemide (Lasix) to a client with heart failure. Which finding indicates a therapeutic effect?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Furosemide reduces fluid overload in heart failure by diuresis, decreasing edema , a direct therapeutic sign. BP may drop, not rise. Heart rate isn't primary'preload reduction matters. Thirst is a side effect. Edema reduction aligns with furosemide's action, critical in heart failure where congestion drives symptoms, making A the key finding.
Question 3 of 5
A patient looks up the drug he is taking in a drug guide. The patient asks the nurse why the physician prescribed a medication that has a lethal dose measure. What is the best response by the nurse?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Lethal dose (e.g., LD50) from research guides safe dosing by showing toxicity thresholds, reassuring the patient it informs, not dictates, prescription. It's not just research trivia-doctors use it indirectly. Side effect watching doesn't explain it. Deferring to the doctor avoids education. Research value ties to safety, clarifying its relevance.
Question 4 of 5
The chemotherapeutic DNA alkylating agents such as nitrogen mustards are effective because they:
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Chemotherapeutic DNA alkylating agents, such as nitrogen mustards, work by forming covalent bonds between alkyl groups on the drug and DNA strands. This cross-linking interferes with DNA replication and transcription, ultimately leading to cell death. This mechanism of action makes the alkylating agents effective in targeting rapidly dividing cancer cells.
Question 5 of 5
Which condition does the nurse identify as a late manifestation of hypokalemia?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Palpitations are a late manifestation of hypokalemia. Hypokalemia is a condition characterized by low levels of potassium in the blood. Potassium plays a vital role in maintaining normal heart function. When potassium levels are low, it can lead to abnormal heart rhythms, including palpitations. Other symptoms of hypokalemia, such as muscle weakness, lethargy, and even hypotension, may be present before palpitations occur.
Therefore, palpitations are considered a late manifestation of hypokalemia that signals significant potassium depletion and should be addressed promptly to prevent serious cardiac complications.