ATI RN
Psychotropic Medications Medcomm Quiz Questions
Question 1 of 5
A nurse administers a medication that potentiates the action of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA). Which finding would be expected?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Reduced anxiety. GABA is an inhibitory neurotransmitter that helps calm the brain, reducing anxiety. By potentiating GABA's action, the medication would enhance its calming effect, leading to reduced anxiety. Improved memory (B), more organized thinking (C), and fewer sensory perceptual alterations (D) are unlikely because GABA primarily influences anxiety and relaxation, not memory, cognitive organization, or sensory perception.
Question 2 of 5
A patient’s spouse, who is a chemist, asks a nurse how serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) lift depression. The nurse should explain that SSRIs:
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B because SSRIs work by blocking the reuptake of serotonin at the presynaptic neuron. This leads to more serotonin being available in the synaptic gap, which enhances neurotransmission and helps alleviate depression symptoms. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because SSRIs do not destroy neurotransmitters, increase production of acetylcholine and dopamine, or block muscarinic and alpha1-norepinephrine receptors.
Question 3 of 5
A patient shows a nurse this advertisement: “Our product is a scientific breakthrough helpful for depression, anxiety, and sleeplessness. Made from an ancient formula, it stimulates circulation and excretes toxins. Satisfaction guaranteed or your money back.” Select the nurse’s best response
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct response is C: "Let’s do some additional investigation of that product." This is the best response because the advertisement makes bold claims about the product without providing any scientific evidence or approval from healthcare authorities. By suggesting further investigation, the nurse maintains a professional and cautious approach towards the product's claims. It shows a willingness to gather more information before making any recommendations. Option A is incorrect because it makes a blanket statement about over-the-counter products without addressing the specific product in question. Option B is too strict and may not be necessary if the product is safe and effective. Option D assumes the patient is self-medicating without exploring their intentions or knowledge about the product.
Question 4 of 5
A patient asks, "What is the major difference between conventional health care and complementary and alternative medicine (CAM)?” The nurse’s best reply is that conventional health care
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A because it highlights the key difference between conventional health care and CAM. Conventional health care focuses on treating the patient through medical interventions, procedures, and medications, while CAM emphasizes the interconnectedness of the body and mind and involves the patient actively in their healing process. This distinction underscores the patient's role in CAM therapies compared to the more passive role in traditional health care. Now, let's analyze why the other choices are incorrect: B: This choice is incorrect because it oversimplifies the differences between conventional health care and CAM by associating CAM solely with religious beliefs and high regulation, which is not universally true. C: This choice is incorrect as it generalizes conventional health care as being solely controlled by the health care industry and motivated by profit, which is not always the case, while oversimplifying CAM as the "people's medicine" not driven by profit. D: This choice is incorrect because it inaccurately portrays conventional health care as solely focused on health promotion and
Question 5 of 5
A patient report, “Last night I had several mixed drinks at a party. When I got home, I had difficulty falling sleep. I made two cups of herbal tea with lavender. This morning, I feel very groggy and have a headache.” The nurse should explain that
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B because lavender is known to have sedative properties that can enhance the sedation effects of other central nervous system depressants like alcohol. This can result in increased drowsiness and grogginess. Choice A is incorrect because the issue is not about timing of lavender use in relation to alcohol intake, but rather the interaction between lavender and alcohol itself. Choice C is incorrect as herbal teas, including lavender, do not typically cause headaches as a nervous system side effect. Choice D is incorrect as the symptoms described (grogginess, headache) are more indicative of the combined effects of alcohol and lavender, rather than just a typical hangover from alcohol alone.