ATI LPN
LPN Pharmacology Questions
Question 1 of 5
A client with a diagnosis of myocardial infarction has a new activity prescription allowing the client to have bathroom privileges. As the client stands and begins to walk, the client begins to complain of chest pain. The nurse should take which action?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: In a client with myocardial infarction experiencing chest pain during activity, the priority action is to stop the activity immediately to reduce the heart's workload and oxygen demand. Assisting the client back to bed helps in reducing stress on the heart and can prevent worsening of the condition. Reporting the chest pain episode to the healthcare provider is important but should not delay taking immediate action to alleviate symptoms. Taking the client's blood pressure and administering nitroglycerin are secondary actions after ensuring the client's safety and comfort.
Question 2 of 5
The nurse is planning measures to decrease the incidence of chest pain for a client with angina pectoris. The nurse should do which intervention to effectively accomplish this goal?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: In the context of a client with angina pectoris, the correct intervention to decrease the incidence of chest pain is to provide a quiet and low-stimulus environment (Option A). This is because excessive noise, stimulation, or stress can exacerbate angina by increasing heart rate and blood pressure, leading to a higher oxygen demand by the heart muscle. By creating a calm and quiet environment, the nurse helps reduce these triggers and supports the client in managing their condition effectively. Encouraging the family to visit frequently (Option B) may provide emotional support but can also introduce additional stimuli and potential stress, which could worsen the client's angina symptoms. Similarly, encouraging the client to call friends and relatives daily (Option C) may lead to emotional stress or excitement, which are not conducive to managing angina. Recommending TV as a constant diversion (Option D) may not address the root cause of the chest pain and could even contribute to a sedentary lifestyle, which is not ideal for cardiovascular health. In an educational context, understanding the impact of environmental factors on cardiovascular health is crucial for nurses and healthcare providers. By choosing the appropriate interventions, like creating a quiet environment for a client with angina, nurses can help optimize patient outcomes and quality of life. This question highlights the importance of holistic care and individualized interventions based on the specific needs of clients with cardiovascular conditions.
Question 3 of 5
The healthcare provider notes this rhythm on the client's cardiac monitor. The healthcare provider next reports that the client is experiencing which heart rhythm?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: In this scenario, the correct answer is B) Atrial fibrillation. Atrial fibrillation is characterized by rapid, chaotic electrical impulses in the atria, leading to an irregular and often rapid ventricular response. This results in a quivering or irregular heartbeat, which can lead to complications like stroke or heart failure. Option A) Normal sinus rhythm is the typical, healthy heart rhythm where electrical impulses originate from the sinus node in a regular pattern. This is not the correct answer because the described rhythm is not regular. Option C) Sinus bradycardia is a slower-than-normal heart rate originating from the sinus node. While it is a possibility, the description of a rapid and chaotic rhythm does not align with sinus bradycardia. Option D) Ventricular fibrillation is a life-threatening emergency where the ventricles quiver and are unable to effectively pump blood. This is not the correct answer because the description provided pertains to atrial, not ventricular, activity. Understanding cardiac rhythms is crucial in healthcare, especially for LPNs who may need to identify abnormal rhythms promptly. Atrial fibrillation requires appropriate management to prevent complications, making it important for healthcare providers to recognize and act on this rhythm promptly.
Question 4 of 5
The client's B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP) level is 691 pg/mL. Which intervention should the nurse implement when providing care for the client?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Elevated BNP levels are indicative of heart failure, which often causes fluid retention and weight gain. Taking daily weights and monitoring trends allows the nurse to assess for changes in fluid status. This intervention helps in evaluating the effectiveness of the treatment plan and identifying worsening heart failure symptoms early.
Question 5 of 5
A hypertensive client who has been taking metoprolol (Lopressor) has been prescribed to decrease the dose of the medication. The client asks the nurse why this must be done over a period of 1 to 2 weeks. In formulating a response, the nurse incorporates the understanding that abrupt withdrawal could affect the client in which way?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C) Precipitate rebound hypertension. When a client abruptly stops taking a beta-blocker medication like metoprolol, which is used to treat hypertension, it can lead to a sudden increase in blood pressure. This rebound effect occurs because the body has become reliant on the medication to help regulate blood pressure. By tapering the dose over 1 to 2 weeks, the body can gradually adjust to lower levels of the medication, reducing the risk of rebound hypertension. Option A) Result in hypoglycemia is incorrect because beta-blockers like metoprolol are not typically associated with causing hypoglycemia. Option B) Give the client insomnia is incorrect because reducing the dose of metoprolol should not directly cause insomnia as a withdrawal effect. Option D) Cause enhanced side effects of other prescribed medications is incorrect because the primary concern with abrupt withdrawal of metoprolol is the risk of rebound hypertension, not necessarily an increase in side effects of other medications. In an educational context, understanding the importance of tapering medications like beta-blockers is crucial for nurses to ensure patient safety and prevent potential complications such as rebound hypertension. Educating clients on the rationale behind dose adjustments can help them adhere to their treatment plan and manage their condition effectively.