ATI RN
Test Bank Pharmacology Questions
Question 1 of 5
A client with gout is prescribed allopurinol (Zyloprim). Which laboratory value should the nurse monitor?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Allopurinol reduces uric acid production, treating gout by inhibiting xanthine oxidase. Monitoring serum uric acid tracks efficacy, ensuring levels drop (normal: 3.5-7.2 mg/dL) to prevent flares. BUN reflects kidney function, relevant but secondary unless damage exists. White blood cells and platelets aren't directly affected unless hypersensitivity occurs (rare). Uric acid is the therapeutic target, aligning with allopurinol's mechanism, critical in gout where hyperuricemia drives symptoms. Regular checks confirm treatment success, guiding dose adjustments, making A the key value to monitor.
Question 2 of 5
A patient who has had an MI is taking a beta blocker. What is the main benefit of beta blocker therapy for this patient?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Beta blockers are commonly prescribed for patients who have had a myocardial infarction (MI) because they help to reduce the workload on the heart by slowing down the heart rate. By reducing the heart rate, beta blockers decrease the heart's oxygen demand and workload, which can help to prevent future cardiac events. Slowing of the heart rate also allows for more efficient filling of the ventricles, which can improve cardiac output and overall heart function. Additionally, beta blockers can help to stabilize the electrical activity of the heart, which can reduce the risk of arrhythmias in patients who have experienced an MI.
Question 3 of 5
A patient has a digoxin level of 1.1 ng/mL. Which interpretation by the nurse is correct?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The therapeutic range for digoxin levels is typically between 0.8-2.0 ng/mL. A digoxin level of 1.1 ng/mL falls below the lower end of the therapeutic range, indicating that it is below the level considered effective for therapeutic benefits. Therefore, the correct interpretation by the nurse is that it is below the therapeutic level.
Question 4 of 5
A patient with a history of pancreatitis and cirrhosis is also being treated for hypertension. Which drug will most likely be ordered for this patient?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: In a patient with a history of pancreatitis and cirrhosis, medications that may exacerbate pancreatic or hepatic issues should be avoided. Among the choices provided, diltiazem is the most suitable antihypertensive medication for this patient. Diltiazem is a calcium channel blocker that does not rely on hepatic metabolism for its action, making it a safe choice for patients with liver disease. In addition, it does not have a significant effect on pancreatic function, making it a preferred option in a patient with pancreatitis. Therefore, diltiazem is the most appropriate choice for this patient with a history of pancreatitis and cirrhosis who requires treatment for hypertension.
Question 5 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: The correct action is to check the radial pulse for 1 full minute. When administering digoxin, it is important to assess the apical pulse before giving the medication. A heart rate of 53 beats/min is below the normal range, especially for a patient taking digoxin, which can slow heart rate further. The nurse should check the radial pulse for a full minute to verify the heart rate accurately and assess for any abnormalities. This step is crucial to ensure patient safety and prevent potential complications associated with bradycardia. In this situation, it is necessary to withhold the dose and notify the prescriber to determine the appropriate course of action based on the assessment findings.