ATI RN
ATI Pharmacology 2016 Practice Exam A Questions
Question 1 of 5
A client is prescribed an IM dose of penicillin. The client reports developing a rash after taking penicillin 3 years ago. What should the nurse do?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The nurse should withhold the medication and inform the provider of the client's previous rash after taking penicillin. This history suggests a potential allergic reaction to penicillin, which can range from mild to severe anaphylaxis. Notifying the provider allows for an alternative antibiotic to be prescribed, considering the client's allergy to penicillin. It is crucial to avoid administering a medication that could potentially lead to a severe allergic reaction in the client.
Question 2 of 5
A client has been prescribed Phenelzine for depression. Which of the following indicates that the client has developed an adverse effect of this medication?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Orthostatic hypotension is a known adverse effect of Phenelzine, a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) used for depression. It is caused by a sudden drop in blood pressure when changing positions, leading to symptoms like dizziness or fainting. Monitoring for orthostatic hypotension is crucial during Phenelzine therapy to prevent complications.
Question 3 of 5
A healthcare provider is assessing a client who takes Lithium Carbonate for the treatment of Bipolar disorder. The provider should recognize which of the following findings as a possible indication of toxicity to this medication?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B) Coarse tremors. Lithium carbonate is a mood-stabilizing medication commonly used to treat bipolar disorder. Coarse tremors are a classic sign of lithium toxicity. Tremors are one of the early signs of lithium toxicity and can progress to more severe symptoms if left untreated. Option A) Severe hypertension is not typically associated with lithium toxicity. In fact, lithium is known to cause renal side effects rather than cardiovascular effects. Option C) Constipation is not a common symptom of lithium toxicity. Gastrointestinal disturbances are not typically associated with lithium toxicity. Option D) Muscle spasm is not a specific sign of lithium toxicity. While muscle weakness can occur in severe cases of toxicity, muscle spasm is not a primary indicator. In an educational context, understanding the signs and symptoms of lithium toxicity is crucial for healthcare providers to ensure the safe and effective management of patients taking this medication. Regular monitoring of lithium levels and awareness of potential toxicities are essential components of caring for individuals with bipolar disorder.
Question 4 of 5
When teaching the parents of a child who has a new prescription for Desipramine, which of the following adverse effects should the nurse instruct the parents is the priority to report to the provider?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The priority adverse effect to report when a child is taking Desipramine is suicidal thoughts. Desipramine can lead to an increased risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviors. The nurse should emphasize to the parents the importance of monitoring the child for any signs of worsening depression or suicidal ideation. Prompt reporting of such symptoms can help prevent harm to the child.
Question 5 of 5
A client has a new prescription for Clonidine to assist with maintenance of abstinence from opioids. The nurse should instruct the client to monitor for which of the following adverse effects?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: In this scenario, the correct answer is B) Dry mouth. Clonidine is an alpha-2 adrenergic agonist commonly used off-label to assist in managing withdrawal symptoms during opioid detoxification. Dry mouth is a common adverse effect of Clonidine due to its central nervous system effects on reducing sympathetic outflow. Option A) Diarrhea is less likely with Clonidine use and is not a common adverse effect associated with this medication. Option C) Insomnia is also less common with Clonidine use, as it is actually used for its sedative effects in some cases. Option D) Hypertension is a potential adverse effect of Clonidine; however, in this context of using Clonidine to maintain abstinence from opioids, the more immediate and common side effect to monitor for is dry mouth. Educationally, understanding the common adverse effects of medications is crucial for nurses to provide safe and effective care to their patients. By knowing the expected side effects, nurses can monitor patients appropriately, educate them on what to expect, and intervene if necessary to prevent complications.