ATI RN
ATI Pharmacology Test Bank Questions
Question 1 of 5
A client is prescribed Nitroglycerin sublingual tablets. Which of the following instructions should the nurse include during discharge teaching?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: During a chest pain episode, the client should take one nitroglycerin tablet sublingually every 5 minutes up to a total of three doses. If chest pain persists after three doses, emergency medical attention should be sought. Nitroglycerin should not be swallowed but allowed to dissolve under the tongue for rapid absorption. Storing the medication in a cool, dry place helps maintain its effectiveness.
Question 2 of 5
A client has a new prescription for Metoclopramide. Which of the following instructions should the nurse include?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct instruction to include when teaching a client about Metoclopramide is to report any signs of restlessness or involuntary movements. Metoclopramide can lead to extrapyramidal symptoms, such as restlessness or involuntary movements. It is essential for clients to notify their healthcare provider if they experience these symptoms to receive appropriate management.
Question 3 of 5
A patient is mowing his lawn on a hot Saturday afternoon. He begins to notice chest pain. What should his first action be?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The patient's first action should be to stop mowing and sit or lie down. Chest pain can be a symptom of a heart attack, and it is important for the patient to immediately rest and avoid physical strain. Continuing to mow the lawn could worsen the condition or lead to further complications. Sitting or lying down will help reduce the heart's workload and minimize the exertion on the body. If the chest pain continues or worsens, seeking medical help should be the next course of action.
Question 4 of 5
A patient about to receive a morning dose of digoxin has an apical pulse of 53 beats/min. What will the nurse do next?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: A low apical pulse rate of 53 beats/min indicates bradycardia, which is a side effect of digoxin. Before administering digoxin, the nurse should always check the patient's pulse rate. If the apical pulse is below the facility's specified parameters (typically below 60 beats/min), the nurse should withhold the dose and notify the prescriber immediately. Bradycardia can be an indication of digoxin toxicity, which can be potentially life-threatening, so it is crucial to follow the protocol and seek further guidance before administering the medication.
Question 5 of 5
The nurse is preparing to give a potassium supplement. Which laboratory test should be checked before the patient receives a dose of potassium?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Before administering a potassium supplement to a patient, it is crucial to check the patient's serum potassium level. This is because if the serum potassium level is already elevated or within the high end of the normal range, giving additional potassium could lead to hyperkalemia, which can be life-threatening. Conversely, if the serum potassium level is low (hypokalemia), then administering potassium supplementation may be necessary to correct the deficiency. Monitoring the serum potassium level helps ensure safe and effective treatment with potassium supplements. It is a critical part of assessing the patient's electrolyte balance and overall health status.