ATI RN
ATI RN Pharmacology 2023 Proctored Exam Questions
Question 1 of 5
A patient is hypokalemic and will be receiving IV potassium. The patient is not on a heart monitor. How should the nurse administer the potassium replacement?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: When administering IV potassium to a hypokalemic patient who is not on a heart monitor, it's important to ensure a controlled rate of infusion to prevent dangerous cardiac arrhythmias. The recommended maximum rate for IV potassium replacement in this scenario is typically no more than 20 mEq/hour. Faster administration rates can increase the risk of hyperkalemia and potentially lead to serious cardiac complications. Monitoring the patient closely for signs of hyperkalemia such as ECG changes or muscle weakness is also crucial during potassium replacement therapy.
Question 2 of 5
Regarding phenytoin, all the following are true EXCEPT:
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Phenytoin's oral bioavailability varies due to formulation and absorption, a true statement. It's highly plasma protein-bound (~90%), not poorly, making that false and the exception. Hepatic enzyme inducers (e.g., rifampicin) enhance its metabolism, true. At higher doses, its elimination shifts to zero-order due to saturated metabolism, true. Half-life ranges from 12-36 hours, also true. High protein binding affects free drug levels, critical for therapeutic monitoring, especially in hypoalbuminemia.
Question 3 of 5
The nurse is creating a plan of care for a patient with a new diagnosis of hypertension. Which is a potential nursing diagnosis for the patient taking antihypertensive medications?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Sexual dysfunction is a potential nursing diagnosis for a patient taking antihypertensive medications. Many antihypertensive medications, especially certain classes like beta-blockers and diuretics, may cause adverse effects such as sexual dysfunction. These medications can impact a patient's libido, sexual arousal, and ability to achieve or maintain an erection, leading to sexual problems. Therefore, sexual dysfunction is an important consideration when caring for a patient with hypertension who is prescribed antihypertensive medications. It is crucial for the nurse to assess, monitor, and address any sexual dysfunction issues that may arise in the patient's care plan to optimize their overall well-being and quality of life.
Question 4 of 5
A male patient is undergoing chemotherapy may also be given the drug allopurinol (Zyloprim, Aloprim). Allopurinol inhibits the synthesis of uric acid. Concomitant administration of allopurinol prevents:
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Allopurinol is primarily used to prevent gout and hyperuricemia, which are common side effects of chemotherapy. Chemotherapy often leads to the rapid destruction of cancer cells, releasing large amounts of uric acid into the bloodstream. This can cause hyperuricemia, leading to gout or kidney stones. Allopurinol works by inhibiting xanthine oxidase, an enzyme involved in uric acid production, thereby reducing uric acid levels. While myelosuppression and pancytopenia are concerns during chemotherapy, they are not directly addressed by allopurinol. Similarly, allopurinol does not inhibit cancer cell growth or replication.
Question 5 of 5
Prior to administering medications, the student nurse reviews the therapeutic index. Which statement best describes the student's understanding of therapeutic index?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Therapeutic index (TI), the ratio of toxic to effective dose, gauges safety-wide TI means safer dosing, helping the student assess if doses are within safe limits. Best drug choice is clinical, not TI-based. Interactions aren't TI-specific. Monitoring needs tie to narrow TI drugs (e.g., lithium), but safety is broader. TI ensures safe dosing, a key review point.