ATI RN
Test Bank Pharmacology Questions
Question 1 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 2 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.
Question 3 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 potassium supplements to a patient, it is essential to check the patient's serum potassium level. This allows the healthcare provider to assess the current potassium level in the body and determine if supplementation is necessary. Monitoring serum potassium levels is crucial because both low potassium (hypokalemia) and high potassium (hyperkalemia) levels can have serious health implications. Administering potassium supplements without checking the serum potassium level could lead to adverse effects or complications, so it is important to confirm the need for supplementation based on this laboratory test.
Question 4 of 5
The classification of digoxin is:
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Digoxin belongs to the class of medications known as cardiac glycosides. Cardiac glycosides, such as digoxin, are commonly used in the treatment of heart failure and certain types of irregular heartbeats (arrhythmias). They work by affecting the heart muscle and helping to improve the heart's ability to pump blood effectively. Digoxin is particularly effective in controlling heart rate and symptoms in patients with congestive heart failure and atrial fibrillation. It is important to monitor digoxin levels carefully due to its narrow therapeutic index and potential for toxicity.
Question 5 of 5
Which of the following is the antidote for Heparin?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Protamine sulfate is the antidote for Heparin. Heparin is an anticoagulant medication that works by inhibiting the clotting factors in the blood. In cases of Heparin overdose or when there is a need to reverse its anticoagulant effects quickly, protamine sulfate can be administered. Protamine sulfate binds to Heparin and neutralizes its anticoagulant effects, making it an effective antidote. It is important to administer the antidote under the guidance of a healthcare professional to prevent any adverse reactions.