ATI RN
Pharmacology ATI Practice Exam 1 Questions
Question 1 of 5
A patient is receiving intravenous (IV) potassium supplements. What is the most important nursing implication when administering this drug?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: IV potassium must always be diluted in IV fluids and administered via an infusion pump to prevent rapid infusion, which can cause life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias. Administering undiluted potassium or too quickly can lead to hyperkalemia and cardiac arrest. While central lines (A) are sometimes used, potassium can also be given through a peripheral IV if properly diluted. Chilling potassium (C) is unnecessary and could cause discomfort. Preservatives (D) are not a primary concern with IV potassium administration.
Question 2 of 5
A male patient with blood type AB, Rh factor positive needs a blood transfusion. The Transfusion Service (blood bank) sends type O, Rh factor negative blood to the unit for the nurse to infuse into this patient. The nurse knows that:
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Type O, Rh-negative blood is considered the universal donor blood and is compatible with all blood types, including AB-positive. This makes it a safe choice in emergencies or when the patient's blood type is unknown. Premedication with diphenhydramine and acetaminophen is not necessary for compatibility but may be used to prevent allergic reactions or fever. Therefore, the nurse can confidently administer this blood product.
Question 3 of 5
Which drug in the following list has an analgesic effect which is not mediated wholly or partly by binding to opioid receptors?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Analgesics often act via opioid receptors. Codeine, a weak mu-opioid agonist, relieves mild pain. Tramadol combines mu agonism with serotonin/norepinephrine reuptake inhibition. Dextropropoxyphene is a mu agonist, buprenorphine a partial agonist. Nefopam's analgesia involves monoamine reuptake inhibition and possibly NMDA antagonism, not opioid receptors, distinguishing it. This non-opioid mechanism suits patients intolerant to opioids, offering an alternative in pain management.
Question 4 of 5
The following drug may be used safely in pregnancy:
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Carbamazepine carries teratogenic risks (e.g., neural tube defects), making it unsafe in pregnancy. Digoxin is safe, used for fetal arrhythmias or maternal heart conditions, with no major congenital risks, a true statement. Streptomycin causes ototoxicity in the fetus, and methotrexate, a folate antagonist, is highly teratogenic, both unsafe. Propylthiouracil is also safe but not listed here correctly per the key. Digoxin's safety profile in pregnancy makes it a preferred option for cardiac issues, balancing maternal and fetal needs.
Question 5 of 5
A male patient has been started on a 5-alpha reductase inhibitor for the treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). Which information should the nurse provide?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: 5-alpha reductase inhibitors like finasteride for benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) require condom use during intercourse because the drug, present in semen, poses a teratogenic risk to a pregnant partner, potentially causing fetal abnormalities. Storing it securely protects children from exposure, as it's hazardous to developing systems. Blood donation is prohibited during and shortly after use due to residual drug in plasma, risking harm to recipients, especially pregnant women. Heavy exercise isn't restricted-activity doesn't alter its efficacy or safety. Condom use is a priority education point, directly addressing reproductive safety, a unique concern tied to its mechanism and pharmacokinetics.