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
What is the therapeutic use for Lithium?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Lithium is primarily used in the treatment of bipolar disorder to decrease the incidence of acute manic episodes. It helps to stabilize mood and prevent the extreme highs (manic episodes) associated with bipolar disorder. Lithium is not used to decrease blood pressure, seizure activity, or increase urinary output.
Question 3 of 5
The nurse frequently administers propranolol (Inderal) as treatment for what condition?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The beta-adrenergic blocking agents are used to treat cardiovascular problems (hypertension, angina, migraine headaches) and to prevent reinfarction after MI. The prototype drug, propranolol, was in fact the most prescribed drug in the country in the 1980s and is still considered a first-line drug. Propranolol does not prevent first MIs and it is not used for hypotension or cluster headaches. The nurse should understand the indications for propranolol to ensure safe and effective administration.
Question 4 of 5
The nurse is conducting medication education about the difference between potency and efficacy to a group of patients. The nurse correctly determines that learning has occurred when the patients make which response?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Efficacy (max effect) trumps potency (dose needed) for ‘best'-a high-efficacy drug fully relieves symptoms, unlike high-potency alone. Potency doesn't guarantee outcome. Efficacy doesn't mean fewer side effects-safety varies. Low-potency drugs can be effective but aren't side-effect-free. Greatest efficacy reflects learning, prioritizing treatment success.
Question 5 of 5
The nurse is reviewing the orders for a patient and notes a new order for an angiotensin-
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors, a type of angiotensin inhibitor, may have a serious interaction with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). When used together, they may reduce the effectiveness of the ACE inhibitor in lowering blood pressure and could potentially lead to decreased kidney function. It is important for the nurse to be aware of this interaction and monitor the patient closely for any adverse effects when these medications are used concurrently.