ATI RN
Use of Psychotropic Medications Questions
Question 1 of 5
A patient has anxiety, increased heart rate, and fear. The nurse would suspect the presence of a high concentration of which neurotransmitter?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D: Norepinephrine. In anxiety and fear, the body's "fight or flight" response is activated, leading to increased heart rate and heightened arousal. Norepinephrine is a neurotransmitter that plays a key role in this response by increasing heart rate, blood pressure, and alertness. A high concentration of norepinephrine is associated with these symptoms. A: GABA is an inhibitory neurotransmitter that typically has a calming effect, so a high concentration of GABA would not produce symptoms of anxiety and increased heart rate. B: Histamine is involved in allergic reactions and regulates sleep-wake cycles, not typically associated with anxiety and increased heart rate. C: Acetylcholine is involved in muscle control and memory, not directly related to anxiety symptoms such as increased heart rate and fear. In summary, the presence of anxiety, increased heart rate, and fear points towards a high concentration of norepinephrine due to
Question 2 of 5
An individual is experiencing problems associated with memory. Which cerebral structures are most likely to be involved in this deficit? Select all that apply.
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: Temporal lobe. The temporal lobe is crucial for memory functions, including the formation and retrieval of memories. It houses the hippocampus, which plays a key role in memory consolidation. The prefrontal cortex (A) is more associated with executive functions and decision-making. The occipital lobe (B) is primarily involved in visual processing. The parietal lobe (D) is responsible for sensory processing and spatial awareness. Therefore, in the context of memory deficits, the temporal lobe is the most likely cerebral structure to be involved.
Question 3 of 5
A patient diagnosed with major depressive disorder tells the nurse, "I want to try supplementing my selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) with St. John’s wort.” Which action should the nurse take first?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Correct Answer: A Rationale: 1. St. John's wort is known to interact with SSRIs, increasing the risk of serotonin syndrome. 2. Serotonin syndrome is a potentially life-threatening condition caused by excessive serotonin levels. 3. Advising the patient of this danger is crucial to prevent harmful interactions. 4. This action prioritizes patient safety and ensures informed decision-making. Summary: B: Aromatherapy is not evidence-based for treating major depressive disorder and is not a priority in this scenario. C: Assessing for depression and suicide risk is important but addressing the potential drug interaction takes precedence. D: Decreasing the antidepressant dose should not be recommended without proper evaluation and medical guidance.
Question 4 of 5
Which CAM method is associated with using allergy injections of small amounts of an allergen in solution?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Naturopathy. Allergy injections of small amounts of an allergen in solution are associated with a treatment method called immunotherapy, commonly used in naturopathic medicine. Naturopathy focuses on treating the root cause of illnesses by supporting the body's natural healing abilities. Allergy injections aim to desensitize the immune system to specific allergens. Homeopathy (B) uses highly diluted substances, not allergen injections. Chiropractic (C) focuses on spinal adjustments for musculoskeletal issues. Shiatsu (D) is a form of Japanese bodywork therapy involving massage techniques.
Question 5 of 5
A patient diagnosed with depression confidently tells the nurse, "I’ve been supplementing my paroxetine with St. John’s wort. It has helped a great deal.” What is the nurse’s priority action?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: Educate the patient about the risks of selective serotonin syndrome. St. John's wort is known to interact with paroxetine, potentially leading to serotonin syndrome. This is a serious condition that can be life-threatening. The nurse's priority is to ensure the patient is aware of this risk to prevent any harm. Choice A is incorrect because assessing changes in depression levels is important but not the priority in this situation. Choice B is incorrect as it is unrelated to the potential interaction between St. John's wort and paroxetine. Choice D is incorrect as adding valerian without addressing the potential interaction with St. John's wort can be harmful.