ATI RN
ATI Pathophysiology Questions
Question 1 of 5
A male patient with erectile dysfunction has asked for a prescription for sildenafil (Viagra). Before giving this medication, the nurse should assess for which of the following conditions?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: In this scenario, the correct answer is B) Use of nitrates. Sildenafil, a phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitor, is contraindicated with nitrates due to the risk of severe hypotension. Nitrates and sildenafil both cause vasodilation, leading to a synergistic effect that can result in a dangerous drop in blood pressure. Option A) History of peptic ulcer disease is not directly contraindicated with sildenafil use. While gastrointestinal side effects can occur with sildenafil, they do not preclude its use in patients with peptic ulcer disease. Option C) Recent history of a stroke is not a direct contraindication to sildenafil use. However, caution should be exercised in patients with recent cardiovascular events due to the potential cardiovascular effects of sildenafil. Option D) History of hypertension is not a contraindication to sildenafil use. In fact, sildenafil can be used in patients with hypertension as long as it is well-controlled and not being treated with nitrates. Educationally, this question highlights the importance of assessing for potential drug interactions and contraindications before prescribing medications. It emphasizes the need for nurses to have a thorough understanding of pharmacology to ensure safe medication administration and patient care.
Question 2 of 5
A patient has been prescribed clomiphene citrate (Clomid) for infertility. What should the nurse include in the teaching plan about the use of this medication?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: In the context of pharmacology education, it is crucial to understand the rationale behind the correct answer and why the other options are incorrect. The correct answer is A) Clomiphene is taken daily for 5 days at the beginning of the menstrual cycle. Clomiphene citrate is a selective estrogen receptor modulator that is commonly used to induce ovulation in women with infertility issues. It is typically administered at the start of the menstrual cycle to stimulate the release of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH), which in turn trigger ovulation. Option B) Clomiphene is taken once daily throughout the menstrual cycle is incorrect because clomiphene is not meant to be taken continuously throughout the menstrual cycle. It is specifically dosed for a limited duration at the beginning of the cycle to achieve its ovulation-inducing effects. Option C) Clomiphene is taken twice daily for 5 days at the end of the menstrual cycle and Option D) Clomiphene is taken three times daily for 10 days at the beginning of the menstrual cycle are also incorrect as they provide dosing schedules that are not in line with the recommended administration of clomiphene for infertility treatment. Therefore, understanding the correct dosing schedule for clomiphene citrate is essential in ensuring its effectiveness in inducing ovulation and improving the chances of conception for patients struggling with infertility. This knowledge is vital for nurses and healthcare providers involved in educating patients on the proper use of this medication to optimize its therapeutic benefits.
Question 3 of 5
A patient is starting on alendronate (Fosamax) for the treatment of osteoporosis. What instructions should the nurse provide to ensure the effectiveness of the medication?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A) Take the medication with a full glass of water and remain upright for at least 30 minutes. This instruction is crucial for the effectiveness of alendronate (Fosamax) in treating osteoporosis. Alendronate is a bisphosphonate medication that can irritate the esophagus if not taken correctly. By taking it with a full glass of water and remaining upright for at least 30 minutes, the medication is more likely to reach the stomach quickly and be properly absorbed, reducing the risk of esophageal irritation and ensuring optimal absorption. Option B) Take the medication with milk to enhance calcium absorption is incorrect because taking alendronate with milk or other calcium-rich foods can decrease its absorption due to binding with calcium in the gastrointestinal tract. Option C) Take the medication at bedtime to ensure absorption during sleep is incorrect because alendronate should be taken in the morning on an empty stomach to maximize absorption. Option D) Take the medication with food to prevent nausea is incorrect because alendronate should be taken on an empty stomach to enhance absorption. Taking it with food can decrease its absorption and effectiveness. Educationally, understanding the specific instructions for medications like alendronate is essential for nurses to ensure optimal patient outcomes. Providing accurate information on medication administration empowers patients to take their medications correctly, leading to better treatment outcomes and reduced risk of adverse effects.
Question 4 of 5
A patient is prescribed estradiol (Estrace) for hormone replacement therapy (HRT). What should the nurse monitor during this therapy?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: In hormone replacement therapy (HRT) with estradiol (Estrace), monitoring liver function tests (option B) is crucial. Estradiol is metabolized in the liver, and long-term use can potentially affect liver function. Monitoring liver enzymes helps detect any early signs of liver damage or dysfunction. Option A, monitoring blood glucose levels, is not directly related to estradiol therapy but is more pertinent in conditions like diabetes or corticosteroid therapy. Option C, monitoring kidney function tests, is not directly impacted by estradiol therapy. Kidney function tests are more relevant in medications excreted through the kidneys. Option D, monitoring blood pressure, is not a primary concern with estradiol therapy. Blood pressure monitoring is essential for certain medications like antihypertensives. Educationally, understanding the specific monitoring parameters for medications like estradiol enhances a nurse's ability to provide safe and effective care, ensuring early detection of potential adverse effects and promoting patient well-being.
Question 5 of 5
A male patient is being treated with testosterone gel for hypogonadism. What important instruction should the nurse provide?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: In pharmacology, understanding the administration of medications is crucial for optimal therapeutic outcomes. In the case of testosterone gel used to treat hypogonadism in males, the correct instruction for the nurse to provide is to apply the gel to the chest or upper arms and allow it to dry completely before dressing (Option B). This is because these areas have a high vascularity, allowing for efficient absorption of the testosterone into the bloodstream. Option A, applying the gel to the face and neck, is incorrect as these areas are not recommended for application due to potential transfer of testosterone to others upon contact and the risk of skin irritation. Option C, applying the gel to the scalp and back, is also incorrect as these areas are not typically recommended sites for testosterone gel application due to varying absorption rates and potential adverse effects. Option D, applying the gel to the genitals, is not recommended as it can lead to overabsorption of testosterone, resulting in systemic side effects. Educationally, it is important for nurses to understand the rationale behind specific medication administration instructions to ensure safe and effective patient care. Providing clear and accurate instructions on medication administration helps prevent errors, enhances patient compliance, and optimizes treatment outcomes.