ATI LPN
LPN Pharmacology Practice Questions Questions
Question 1 of 9
A client admitted with coronary artery disease (CAD) reports dyspnea at rest. What intervention should the nurse prioritize?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: In a client with coronary artery disease (CAD) experiencing dyspnea at rest, the priority intervention should be to elevate the head of the bed to at least 45 degrees. This position helps reduce the work of breathing, optimizes lung expansion, and can alleviate symptoms of dyspnea by improving oxygenation and ventilation. Providing a walker for ambulation, monitoring oxygen saturation, and having an oxygen cannula at the bedside are important interventions but not the priority when the client is experiencing dyspnea at rest. Elevating the head of the bed is crucial to improve respiratory function and should be prioritized in this situation.
Question 2 of 9
A patient takes an oral medication that causes gastrointestinal upset. The patient asks the primary care NP why the drug information insert cautions against using antacids while taking the drug. The NP should explain that the antacid may:
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A because antacids change gastric pH, affecting drug absorption. Choice B is incorrect as distribution isn’t directly altered. Choice C is wrong since toxicity isn’t the primary concern here. Choice D is inaccurate as antacids typically reduce upset.
Question 3 of 9
A client diagnosed with thrombophlebitis 1 day ago suddenly complains of chest pain and shortness of breath. The LPN/LVN understands that a life-threatening complication of this condition is which?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C, Pulmonary embolism. Pulmonary embolism is a critical complication of thrombophlebitis where a blood clot dislodges and travels to the lungs, obstructing blood flow. This obstruction can lead to chest pain, shortness of breath, and potentially fatal consequences, making it a life-threatening emergency that requires prompt intervention. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because pneumonia, pulmonary edema, and myocardial infarction are not directly associated with thrombophlebitis and would not present with the sudden onset of chest pain and shortness of breath in this context.
Question 4 of 9
When a medication is added to a regimen for a synergistic effect, the combined effect of the drugs is:
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Choice B is correct because synergy means the combined effect exceeds the sum of individual effects, enhancing therapeutic outcomes beyond additive results. Choice A is incorrect as it describes an additive, not synergistic, effect. Choice C is wrong because synergy doesn't reduce efficacy below individual effects. Choice D is incorrect since synergy is a predictable pharmacological principle, not entirely variable.
Question 5 of 9
The client with diabetes mellitus has gangrene of the toes to the midfoot. Which goal should be included in this client's plan of care?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Preventing infection is crucial in clients with gangrene to halt the spread of infection and avert further complications. Infections can exacerbate tissue damage and lead to systemic complications, making infection prevention a priority in the care plan for this client. Restoring skin integrity and promoting healing may not be achievable goals until the infection is under control. Improving nutrition is important for overall health but may not be the priority when the immediate concern is preventing infection.
Question 6 of 9
After administering nitroglycerin to a client with coronary artery disease (CAD) who reports chest pain, what should be the nurse's next priority action?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct next priority action after administering nitroglycerin to a client with CAD experiencing chest pain is to monitor the client's blood pressure. Nitroglycerin can cause hypotension, so it is crucial to assess and monitor the client's blood pressure for any signs of decreased perfusion or adverse effects. Obtaining a 12-lead ECG may be important but is not the immediate priority. Notifying the healthcare provider and administering a second dose of nitroglycerin should only be considered after ensuring the client's blood pressure is stable.
Question 7 of 9
Michael calls the clinic to ask about taking fish oil supplements with his simvastatin prescription. The NP's response is:
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Choice B is correct because fish oil (omega-3s) and simvastatin both lower triglycerides with no significant interactions; studies show they're safe together, enhancing lipid benefits. Choice A is incorrect as fish oil's bleeding risk is minimal and not amplified by simvastatin. Choice C is wrong because fish oil doesn't reduce simvastatin's efficacy—they're complementary. Choice D is incorrect since no prescription is needed for this safe combination.
Question 8 of 9
Phase I oxidative-reductive processes of drug metabolism require certain nutritional elements. Which of the following would reduce or inhibit this process?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Choice A is correct because phase I metabolism, involving cytochrome P450 enzymes, relies on protein for enzyme synthesis; malnutrition impairs this, reducing metabolism. Choice B is incorrect as iron deficiency affects oxygen transport, not directly phase I processes. Choice C is wrong since only protein malnutrition, not iron deficiency, is directly relevant. Choice D is incorrect because protein malnutrition does impact metabolism.
Question 9 of 9
Over-the-counter drugs that are safe to use include:
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Choice D is correct because acetaminophen, aspirin, and ibuprofen are safe OTC options for pain/fever when used per guidelines, with well-established profiles. Choice A is incorrect alone as it's one drug. Choice B is wrong by itself because aspirin is just part. Choice C is incorrect solo since ibuprofen is only one option.