ATI RN
PN ATI Capstone Pharmacology 1 Quiz Questions
Question 1 of 5
A patient is receiving digoxin 0.25 mg/day as part of treatment for HF. The nurse assesses the patient before medication administration. Which assessment finding would be of most concern?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Low serum potassium levels can increase the risk of digoxin toxicity. Hypokalemia can enhance the toxic effects of digoxin on the heart, leading to an increased risk of serious dysrhythmias such as ventricular tachycardia or ventricular fibrillation. Therefore, a serum potassium level of 2.9 mEq/L is the most concerning finding among the options listed for a patient receiving digoxin therapy for heart failure. This finding should be addressed promptly to prevent potential cardiac complications.
Question 2 of 5
A patient who has had an MI is taking a beta blocker. What is the main benefit of beta blocker therapy for this patient?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The main benefit of beta blocker therapy for a patient who has had a myocardial infarction (MI) is the slowing of the heart rate. Beta blockers work by blocking the action of adrenaline on beta-adrenergic receptors in the heart, which results in a decrease in heart rate. By slowing the heart rate, beta blockers help reduce the workload of the heart and decrease oxygen demand, which is beneficial in patients post-MI. This can help improve the heart's efficiency, decrease the risk of arrhythmias, and improve outcomes in patients with a history of MI. Vasodilation of the coronary arteries (choice A) is not the main mechanism of action of beta blockers. Increased force of cardiac contraction (choice B) is not a desired effect post-MI as it can increase oxygen demand and potentially worsen the patient's condition. Maintaining adequate blood pressure (choice D) can be a secondary benefit of beta
Question 3 of 5
In assessing a patient before administration of a cardiac glycoside, the nurse knows that which lab result can increase the toxicity of the drug?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Low potassium levels, such as the potassium level of 2.8 mEq/L presented in choice A, can increase the toxicity of cardiac glycosides like digoxin. Hypokalemia can potentiate the effects of cardiac glycosides on the heart muscle, leading to an increased risk of cardiac toxicity and arrhythmias. Therefore, monitoring and correcting potassium levels before administering cardiac glycosides is essential to reduce the risk of adverse effects.
Question 4 of 5
A patient states he experiences anxiety and has panic attacks at least once a week. What might be helpful for this patient?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Alprazolam (Xanax) is the most appropriate choice for a patient who experiences anxiety and has panic attacks at least once a week. Alprazolam is a benzodiazepine medication commonly used for the treatment of anxiety and panic disorders. It acts as a central nervous system depressant and enhances the activity of the neurotransmitter gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) in the brain, leading to a calming effect. Phenytoin (Dilantin) is an antiepileptic medication, Lithium is primarily used for bipolar disorder, and Spironolactone is a diuretic medication used for conditions like heart failure and hypertension; none of these medications are indicated for anxiety and panic attacks.
Question 5 of 5
If a patient overdoses on Morphine, the nurse would give him as
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Naloxone is an opioid receptor antagonist commonly used in cases of opioid overdose, such as with Morphine. When a patient overdoses on Morphine, they may experience respiratory depression, CNS depression, and sedation. Naloxone works by competitively binding to opioid receptors, displacing the opioid and reversing the effects of the overdose. It helps to quickly restore normal respiratory function and consciousness in patients who have ingested too much Morphine. Atropine, vitamin K, and physostigmine are not indicated for Morphine overdose.