ATI RN
Test Bank Pharmacology Questions
Question 1 of 5
A client with gout is prescribed allopurinol (Zyloprim). Which laboratory value should the nurse monitor?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Allopurinol reduces uric acid production, treating gout by inhibiting xanthine oxidase. Monitoring serum uric acid tracks efficacy, ensuring levels drop (normal: 3.5-7.2 mg/dL) to prevent flares. BUN reflects kidney function, relevant but secondary unless damage exists. White blood cells and platelets aren't directly affected unless hypersensitivity occurs (rare). Uric acid is the therapeutic target, aligning with allopurinol's mechanism, critical in gout where hyperuricemia drives symptoms. Regular checks confirm treatment success, guiding dose adjustments, making A the key value to monitor.
Question 2 of 5
what is the classi昀椀cation of HEPARIN:
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Heparin is a commonly used anticoagulant medication. It works by inhibiting the formation of blood clots in the body. Anticoagulants like heparin are frequently used to prevent and treat conditions such as deep vein thrombosis (DVT), pulmonary embolism, and during certain medical procedures to reduce the risk of clot formation. Heparin is not used to treat hypertension, diabetes, or as a laxative.
Question 3 of 5
The nurse is preparing to give a potassium supplement. Which laboratory test should be checked before the patient receives a dose of potassium?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Before administering potassium supplements to a patient, it is essential to check the patient's serum potassium level. This allows the healthcare provider to assess the current potassium level in the body and determine if supplementation is necessary. Monitoring serum potassium levels is crucial because both low potassium (hypokalemia) and high potassium (hyperkalemia) levels can have serious health implications. Administering potassium supplements without checking the serum potassium level could lead to adverse effects or complications, so it is important to confirm the need for supplementation based on this laboratory test.
Question 4 of 5
The classification of digoxin is:
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Digoxin belongs to the class of medications known as cardiac glycosides. Cardiac glycosides, such as digoxin, are commonly used in the treatment of heart failure and certain types of irregular heartbeats (arrhythmias). They work by affecting the heart muscle and helping to improve the heart's ability to pump blood effectively. Digoxin is particularly effective in controlling heart rate and symptoms in patients with congestive heart failure and atrial fibrillation. It is important to monitor digoxin levels carefully due to its narrow therapeutic index and potential for toxicity.
Question 5 of 5
The nurse manages care for several clients receiving hormone replacement therapy (HRT). What will the priority assessment by the nurse include as related to side effects?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: HRT, often involving estrogen, increases thrombophlebitis risk due to enhanced clotting factors. Calf pain signals possible deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a life-threatening side effect requiring immediate assessment, as it could lead to pulmonary embolism. Decreased libido , low-back pain , and fatigue may occur with HRT but are less urgent and not specific to its most dangerous complications. The nurse prioritizes calf pain due to its association with thromboembolism, a well-documented HRT risk, especially in smokers or those with vascular issues, making choice A the critical focus for safety.