ATI RN
ATI Proctored Exam Pharmacology Questions
Question 1 of 5
A 40-year-old man was given a drug that binds to a subunit of the GABA A receptor. When used at a high dose, the drug can open Cl- channels independent of GABA. What drug was the man given?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Phenobarbital, a barbiturate, binds to a distinct site on the GABA_A receptor, enhancing GABA's inhibitory effects by prolonging chloride channel opening. At high doses, it uniquely can directly open these channels without GABA, leading to profound CNS depression—useful in anesthesia or seizure control but risky due to overdose potential. Diazepam, a benzodiazepine, also acts on GABA_A receptors but only enhances GABA's effect, not independently opening channels, limiting its action to GABA availability. Ethanol affects GABA_A receptors indirectly and lacks this specific high-dose capability. Baclofen targets GABA_B receptors, influencing potassium channels, not chloride, and is unrelated to this mechanism. Dronabinol, a cannabinoid, has no GABA_A activity. Phenobarbital's ability to independently activate chloride channels at high doses distinguishes it, aligning with the scenario described and explaining its utility and risks in clinical settings.
Question 2 of 5
The patient has been prescribed oxymetazoline (Afrin). What medication information should the nurse provide?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Oxymetazoline relieves congestion quickly but risks rebound if overused. 'Take this medication exactly as directed as there is no antidote if you overdose' emphasizes adherence to prevent misuse . Hand washing and not swallowing reduce risks. It acts fast, not over days . Choice D ensures safe use, critical for nasal decongestants.
Question 3 of 5
The client is prescribed a nasal decongestant spray. What information should the nurse include when educating the client about how to use this medication?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Failed to generate a rationale of 500+ characters after 5 retries.
Question 4 of 5
A client is prescribed docusate sodium (Colace) for constipation. Which statement by the client indicates understanding?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Docusate, a stool softener, prevents straining by drawing water into stool. Drinking more water enhances this, showing understanding. It works in 1-3 days, not hours or immediately . Milk isn't needed. Hydration aligns with docusate's mechanism, key in constipation where moisture matters, making B the correct statement.
Question 5 of 5
The following drugs are effectively administered by the rectal route to produce their systemic effect:
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Failed to generate a rationale of 500+ characters after 5 retries.