ATI RN
ATI Pharmacology Test Bank Questions
Question 1 of 5
A client has difficulty swallowing medications and is prescribed enteric-coated aspirin PO once daily. The client asks if the medication can be crushed to make it easier to swallow. Which of the following responses should the nurse provide?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Crushing an enteric-coated medication can cause it to break down in the stomach instead of the intestines, potentially leading to gastrointestinal distress like stomachache or indigestion. It is important to take enteric-coated medications whole to ensure they are properly absorbed in the intestines and to prevent irritation to the stomach.
Question 2 of 5
A nurse is assessing a client who is receiving IV vancomycin. The nurse notes a flushing of the neck and tachycardia. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C) Decrease the infusion rate on the IV. When a client on IV vancomycin experiences flushing of the neck and tachycardia, these are signs of red man syndrome, an adverse reaction to vancomycin characterized by histamine release. Slowing down the infusion rate can help minimize these symptoms by reducing the rapid release of histamine. This action can alleviate the flushing and tachycardia, making it the most appropriate nursing intervention in this situation. Option A) Documenting an anaphylactic reaction is incorrect because the symptoms described are more indicative of red man syndrome, not an anaphylactic reaction. Option B) Changing the IV infusion site is unrelated to the symptoms presented and would not address the underlying issue of histamine release causing the flushing and tachycardia. Option D) Applying cold compresses to the neck area is not the recommended action for red man syndrome. Slowing down the infusion rate is the priority to manage the symptoms effectively. Educationally, understanding the signs and symptoms of common medication reactions like red man syndrome is crucial for nurses administering medications. Knowing appropriate interventions based on these symptoms ensures safe and effective patient care. It highlights the importance of recognizing and responding promptly to adverse drug reactions to promote patient safety.
Question 3 of 5
A client with streptococcal pneumonia is receiving penicillin G by intermittent IV bolus. 10 minutes into the infusion of the third dose, the client reports itching at the IV site, dizziness, and shortness of breath. What should the nurse do first?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: In this scenario, the client is exhibiting signs of anaphylaxis, a severe allergic reaction. The priority action for the nurse is to stop the infusion immediately to prevent further administration of the allergen and worsening symptoms. Once the infusion is stopped, the nurse can then proceed with additional interventions, such as calling the provider, assessing the client's respiratory status, and providing appropriate care as needed.
Question 4 of 5
Why does a nurse on an oncology unit verify a client's current cumulative lifetime dose of doxorubicin before administering it to a client with breast cancer?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Verifying the client's current cumulative lifetime dose of doxorubicin is necessary because excessive amounts of the medication can lead to cardiomyopathy, a serious and potentially life-threatening side effect. By monitoring the cumulative dose, healthcare providers can help prevent cardiotoxicity and ensure patient safety during treatment.
Question 5 of 5
A healthcare professional is reviewing laboratory results for a client who is receiving heparin via continuous IV infusion. Which of the following results indicates that the heparin infusion should be increased?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: An aPTT of 90 seconds is above the therapeutic range for heparin, which typically falls between 60-80 seconds. This indicates that the current heparin dose is too high, and the infusion rate should be decreased to avoid excessive anticoagulation and the risk of bleeding. Monitoring aPTT is crucial in adjusting heparin therapy to maintain it within the therapeutic range.