ATI RN
Cardiovascular Drugs Quiz Questions
Question 1 of 5
A client diagnosed with schizophrenia is slow to respond and appears to be listening to unseen others. Which medication should a nurse expect a physician to order to address this type of symptom?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: Risperidone (Risperdal) to address the positive symptom of hallucinations. Risperidone is an atypical antipsychotic commonly used to treat schizophrenia symptoms such as hallucinations and delusions. It works by blocking dopamine and serotonin receptors in the brain, helping to reduce hallucinations. A: Haloperidol (Haldol) is an older typical antipsychotic that is more commonly used for treating positive symptoms like hallucinations and delusions, not negative symptoms like social withdrawal or lack of motivation. B: Clonazepam (Klonopin) is a benzodiazepine used to treat anxiety and seizures, not typically used for treating the positive symptoms of schizophrenia. D: Clozapine (Clozaril) is typically reserved for treatment-resistant schizophrenia and is more effective in addressing negative symptoms like social withdrawal and lack of motivation, rather than positive symptoms like hallucinations.
Question 2 of 5
A patient being treated for depression has been taking 300 mg amitriptyline (Elavil) daily for nearly a year. She calls her case manager at the mental health clinic, stating she stopped taking her antidepressant 2 days ago and has developed something like the “flu,” with cold sweats, nausea, a rapid heartbeat, terrible nightmares when she sleeps, but no other symptoms. How should the nurse respond?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: Explain it may be withdrawal; tell her to take one Elavil and contact her doctor. This response is appropriate because the patient is experiencing symptoms consistent with abrupt discontinuation of amitriptyline, known as withdrawal syndrome. By advising her to take one dose of Elavil, it helps to alleviate the withdrawal symptoms and prevent further complications. Instructing her to contact her doctor ensures proper follow-up and monitoring. Choice A is incorrect because going to the emergency department may not be necessary for this situation. Choice B is incorrect as it does not address the underlying issue of withdrawal from the antidepressant. Choice D is incorrect as it provides a potentially harmful tapering schedule that may not adequately manage withdrawal symptoms.
Question 3 of 5
A patient is being changed from an injectable anticoagulant to an oral anticoagulant. Which anticoagulant does the nurse realize is administered orally?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Rationale: 1. Warfarin is administered orally, making it suitable for transitioning from an injectable anticoagulant. 2. Enoxaparin, Bivalirudin, and Dalteparin are injectable anticoagulants, not suitable for oral administration. Summary: Warfarin is the correct choice as it is the only oral anticoagulant among the options. Enoxaparin, Bivalirudin, and Dalteparin are injectable anticoagulants, not suitable for oral administration.
Question 4 of 5
The laboratory report for a patient taking clozapine (Clozaril) shows a white blood cell count of 3000 mm3. Select the nurse’s best action.
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Report these results to the health care provider immediately. A low white blood cell count (3000 mm3) in a patient taking clozapine (Clozaril) could indicate a potentially serious condition called agranulocytosis, which is a severe decrease in white blood cells. This condition can increase the risk of infection and is a known side effect of clozapine. Reporting these results to the health care provider immediately is crucial for prompt evaluation and appropriate management, such as discontinuing the medication or adjusting the dosage. Summary of incorrect choices: B: Giving the next dose as prescribed is risky without addressing the low white blood cell count first. C: Giving aspirin and forcing fluids is unrelated to the low white blood cell count and could worsen the situation. D: Repeating the laboratory test may delay necessary intervention for the potentially serious condition of agranulocytosis.
Question 5 of 5
A patient tells a nurse, “My doctor thinks my problem may lie with the neurotransmitters in my brain. Does that mean I have a serious problem?” How should the nurse reply to the patient’s question about the seriousness of the problem?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A because it acknowledges the patient's concern and invites further discussion to clarify the doctor's explanation. By exploring what the doctor has told the patient, the nurse can provide accurate information and address any misconceptions, helping the patient understand the situation better. Choice B jumps to conclusions about mental disorders without assessing the patient's actual situation. Choice C oversimplifies the treatment of neurotransmitter issues, which may vary in severity. Choice D assumes the patient's perception without addressing the underlying concerns. Overall, choice A promotes open communication and patient-centered care.