ATI RN
Use of Psychotropic Medications Questions
Question 1 of 5
A patient has delusions and hallucinations. Before beginning treatment with a psychotropic medication, the health care provider wants to rule out the presence of a brain tumor. For which test will a nurse need to prepare the patient?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Computed tomography (CT) scan or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). To rule out a brain tumor, a CT scan or MRI is essential because they provide detailed images of the brain structure, allowing healthcare providers to visualize any abnormalities such as tumors. Step-by-step rationale: 1. CT scan and MRI are common imaging tests used to detect structural abnormalities in the brain, including tumors. 2. These tests provide detailed cross-sectional images of the brain, enabling healthcare providers to assess the presence of any masses or lesions. 3. By evaluating the images from a CT scan or MRI, healthcare providers can determine if a brain tumor is present before initiating treatment with psychotropic medication. Summary of other choices: - A: Cerebral arteriogram is used to visualize blood vessels in the brain and is not specifically for detecting brain tumors. - C: PET or SPECT scans are more useful in assessing brain function and blood flow, rather than detecting structural abnormalities like tumors.
Question 2 of 5
A nurse cares for patients taking various medications, including buspirone (BuSpar), haloperidol (Haldol), trazodone (Desyrel), and phenelzine (Nardil). The nurse will order a special diet for the patient taking:
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D: phenelzine (Nardil). Phenelzine is a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) that requires a special diet low in tyramine to prevent hypertensive crisis. Tyramine-rich foods like aged cheese, cured meats, and fermented foods can interact with MAOIs. Buspirone, haloperidol, and trazodone do not have specific dietary restrictions related to their mechanisms of action.
Question 3 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 4 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 5 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.