ATI RN
Psychotropic Medications 101 Quiz Questions
Question 1 of 5
A patient has dementia. The health care provider wants to make a differential diagnosis between Alzheimer disease and multiple infarctions. Which diagnostic procedure should a nurse expect to prepare the patient for first?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Computed tomography (CT) scan. In this scenario, a CT scan would be most appropriate as it can quickly identify signs of multiple infarctions, such as ischemic strokes, which can present similarly to dementia. A CT scan provides detailed images of the brain's structure, allowing for visualization of infarcts and helping differentiate between Alzheimer's disease and multiple infarctions. Reasons why other choices are incorrect: B: Positron emission tomography (PET) scan - PET scans are used to detect metabolic changes in the brain, which may not be as helpful in distinguishing between Alzheimer's disease and multiple infarctions. C: Functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) - fMRI measures brain activity and may not be as effective in identifying structural abnormalities associated with infarctions. D: Single-photon–emission computed tomography (SPECT) scan - SPECT scans are useful for evaluating blood flow in the brain but may not provide
Question 2 of 5
Priority teaching for a patient taking clozapine (Clozaril) should include which instruction?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A because clozapine can cause agranulocytosis, a serious condition where the body's white blood cell count drops significantly, leading to infections like sore throat and fever. Reporting these symptoms promptly is crucial for timely medical intervention. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because they are not directly related to potential side effects or complications of clozapine therapy.
Question 3 of 5
The spouse of a patient with schizophrenia asks, 'Which neurotransmitters are more active when a person has schizophrenia?' The nurse should state, 'The current thinking is that the thought disturbances are related to increased activity of: (Select all that apply.)
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D: dopamine. Dopamine is implicated in the pathophysiology of schizophrenia, with increased dopamine activity thought to contribute to the positive symptoms of the disorder. This is supported by the effectiveness of antipsychotic medications that block dopamine receptors. GABA (A) is an inhibitory neurotransmitter, and its dysfunction is associated with anxiety disorders, not schizophrenia. Substance P (B) is primarily involved in pain perception and neurokinin receptors, not typically implicated in schizophrenia. Histamine (C) plays a role in the sleep-wake cycle and allergic responses, but is not a primary neurotransmitter involved in schizophrenia.
Question 4 of 5
A patient reports good results from taking an herb to manage migraine headache pain. The nurse confirms there are no hazardous interactions between the herb and the patient’s current prescription drugs. Select the nurse’s best comment to the patient.
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: "You are experiencing a placebo effect. When we believe something will help, it usually does.” Rationale: 1. The nurse acknowledges the patient’s positive experience with the herb, validating the patient's perspective. 2. By mentioning the placebo effect, the nurse educates the patient about the potential psychological benefits of belief in a treatment. 3. The nurse's comment is non-judgmental and encourages open communication with the patient. 4. This response promotes patient empowerment in managing their health. Summary: A: Merely noting in the medical record does not address the patient’s experience or provide valuable information. C: This response is accusatory and may discourage the patient from sharing important information in the future. D: This statement is incorrect and may cause unnecessary fear or confusion for the patient.
Question 5 of 5
An immigrant from China needs a colonic resection but is anxious and reluctant about surgery. This patient usually follows traditional Chinese health practices. Which comment by the nurse would most likely reduce the patient’s anxiety and reluctance?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A because it appeals to the patient's traditional Chinese beliefs by mentioning yin and yang forces and harmony, which are important concepts in traditional Chinese medicine. This can help the patient feel more comfortable and reassured about the surgery. Choice B is incorrect because it uses vague language about "final transformation" which may not resonate with the patient's cultural beliefs. Choice C is incorrect because while it offers reassurance, it does not address the patient's specific cultural background or concerns about the surgery. Choice D is incorrect because while acupuncture may be a valid option, it does not directly address the patient's anxiety and reluctance towards surgery based on their traditional health practices.