ATI RN
Pharmacology ATI Test Bank Questions
Question 1 of 5
A client is admitted to the emergency room complaining of difficulty of breathing and upon auscultation, the nurse noted that the patient has wheezes. An allergic reaction to penicillin was
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Albuterol is a short-acting beta-agonist bronchodilator commonly used in the treatment of asthma and other respiratory conditions. In this scenario where the patient is experiencing difficulty breathing and wheezing, albuterol is the most appropriate medication to administer first. Albuterol works by relaxing the smooth muscles in the airways, which helps to open up the air passages and improve breathing. It can provide quick relief of symptoms such as wheezing, shortness of breath, and chest tightness. In an emergency situation like this, it is crucial to address the underlying airway constriction promptly, making albuterol the priority medication to administer. This will help improve the patient's breathing and stabilize their respiratory status before considering other medications such as corticosteroids or theophylline.
Question 2 of 5
The nurse is caring for a client receiving gentamicin (Garamycin) IV. Which adverse effect should the nurse monitor for most closely?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Gentamicin, an aminoglycoside, treats severe infections but is ototoxic, risking hearing loss via cochlear damage, a serious, potentially irreversible effect. The nurse must monitor closely (e.g., assess for tinnitus, vertigo) to catch it early, prompting discontinuation. Rash suggests allergy but is less frequent and manageable. Nausea and diarrhea occur but are transient and less critical than auditory damage. Gentamicin's narrow therapeutic index and accumulation in inner ear tissues make ototoxicity the priority, especially with IV dosing where levels peak. Early detection prevents permanent disability, aligning with vigilant nursing care for nephrotoxic and ototoxic drugs, making C the adverse effect to watch most closely.
Question 3 of 5
A patient has been on TPN for 1 month, and there is an order to discontinue TPN tomorrow. The nurse contacts the health care provider because sudden interruption of TPN therapy may cause which condition?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Sudden discontinuation of TPN can cause hypoglycemia due to the abrupt cessation of dextrose infusion. The nurse should gradually taper TPN or provide a dextrose solution to prevent this. Dehydration (A), tremors (B), and urinary retention (C) are not typical complications of TPN discontinuation.
Question 4 of 5
A 19-year-old male college student develops sore throat, chills, and fever. Instead of going to the student health service for care, he takes a few of his roommates' amoxicillin antibiotics. Over the next few hours, he develops a maculopapular rash on his palms and swelling of his lips. What is the most likely explanation for this finding?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Amoxicillin causing rash and lip swelling suggests allergy. Penicilloic acid , a penicillin degradation product, acts as a hapten, triggering IgE-mediated reactions. DNA gyrase , RNA synthase , and telomerase are unrelated. Transferase (E) is vague. This type I hypersensitivity fits the rapid onset.
Question 5 of 5
A 79-year-old patient is taking a diuretic for treatment of hypertension. This patient is very
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The nurse will know that it is important to teach the patient to take extra precautions when standing up because of the potential risk of orthostatic hypotension and falls while taking a diuretic for hypertension. Orthostatic hypotension is a common side effect of diuretics, which can lead to dizziness or lightheadedness when changing positions, particularly when standing up quickly. This can increase the risk of falls and injury, especially in elderly patients like this 79-year-old individual. Therefore, the teaching point about taking extra precautions while standing up is crucial for the safety and well-being of the patient.