ATI RN
Pharmacology ATI Proctored Exam 2024 Questions
Question 1 of 5
A patient is concerned about the adverse effects of the fibric acid derivative she is taking to lower her cholesterol level. Which is an adverse effect of this class of medication?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Adverse effects of fibric acid derivatives, also known as fibrates, may include joint pain among other side effects such as gastrointestinal symptoms, abnormalities in liver function tests, and myopathy (muscle damage). Joint pain can be a result of musculoskeletal side effects associated with fibrates, so it is important for the patient to report any new or worsening joint pain to their healthcare provider.
Question 2 of 5
The nurse administers an adrenergic blocking agent in order to prevent release of what neurotransmitter?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Adrenergic blocking agents prevent norepinephrine from being released from the adrenal medulla or from the nerve terminal from activating the receptor, which blocks sympathetic nervous system effects. Epinephrine, serotonin, and GABA are not associated with this process. Norepinephrine is the primary neurotransmitter targeted by these agents, as it plays a key role in the sympathetic nervous system's fight-or-flight response.
Question 3 of 5
A 52-year-old man has had several focal complex partial seizures over the last year. Which one of the following therapies would be the most appropriate initial therapy for this patient?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Levetiracetam treats focal complex partial seizures by modulating synaptic vesicle protein SV2A, reducing excitability with broad efficacy, good tolerability, and minimal interactions, making it an appropriate initial therapy. Ethosuximide targets absence seizures, not focal. Diazepam manages acute seizures, not maintenance. Carbamazepine plus primidone is excessive; carbamazepine alone controls focal seizures via sodium channel blockade but has more interactions. Watchful waiting risks progression. Levetiracetam's profile, per guidelines, suits this patient as a first-line choice.
Question 4 of 5
A patient who takes high-dose aspirin to treat arthritis will need to take prednisone to treat an acute flare of symptoms. What action will the nurse perform?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Prednisone is a corticosteroid medication that can cause side effects such as fluid retention, electrolyte imbalance, and increased blood pressure. On the other hand, high-dose aspirin, especially when taken for arthritis, can have blood-thinning effects that may also contribute to lowering blood pressure. Given these potential effects of both medications, the nurse should be vigilant for the development of hypotension in the patient. Monitoring for signs and symptoms of low blood pressure, such as dizziness, lightheadedness, and weakness, is crucial in this situation to ensure the patient's safety.
Question 5 of 5
The client has been prescribed the opioid combination drug Novahistine DM for control of cough. This drug contains codeine, phenylephrine, and chlorpheniramine. Which instructions should the nurse provide as part of medication education?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Novahistine DM combines codeine (antitussive), phenylephrine (decongestant), and chlorpheniramine (antihistamine), causing sedation and impaired judgment. 'Do not make important decisions or operate machinery' is critical, as codeine's CNS depression, amplified by chlorpheniramine, risks accidents (correct answers: 3, 4, 5). Water aids swallowing but isn't key. Bedside storage risks overuse. Adherence is vital but secondary to safety. Choice D prioritizes preventing harm.