ATI RN
Intro to Pharmacology ATI Questions
Question 1 of 5
A patient is started on a diuretic for antihypertensive therapy. The nurse expects that a drug in which class is likely to be used initially?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Thiazide diuretics are commonly used as first-line therapy for hypertension. They are effective in reducing blood pressure by promoting diuresis and decreasing plasma volume. Thiazide diuretics work by inhibiting sodium and chloride reabsorption in the distal convoluted tubule of the nephron, leading to increased excretion of water and electrolytes. This helps to reduce blood volume and subsequently lower blood pressure. Thiazide diuretics are generally well-tolerated and effective, making them a preferred choice for initial antihypertensive therapy.
Question 2 of 5
The physician orders penicillin for a female client who has a sinus infection. What is a priority question to ask the client prior to administering the medication?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Penicillin, a beta-lactam antibiotic, is generally safe (Category B) but requires pregnancy status clarification before administration. Pregnancy alters drug metabolism and dosing, and while penicillin poses minimal fetal risk, confirming status ensures no hypersensitivity or rare contraindications are overlooked, prioritizing maternal and fetal safety. Future pregnancy plans are less immediate, affecting long-term considerations, not current use. Breastfeeding matters due to minimal excretion in milk, but it's secondary to current pregnancy. Birth control interaction is negligible with penicillin, unlike other antibiotics. Asking 'Are you pregnant?' addresses the most urgent safety concern, aligning with nursing's role in preventing adverse outcomes, making A the priority question before initiating therapy.
Question 3 of 5
Combination chemotherapy is used in the treatment of cancer because:
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Combination chemotherapy is used to target cancer cells through multiple mechanisms, reducing the likelihood of resistance. Single-agent therapy often leads to the development of resistant cell lines, as cancer cells can adapt to the drug. By using a combination of drugs with different mechanisms of action, the treatment can more effectively kill cancer cells and prevent resistance. While two drugs may increase efficacy, the primary rationale is to overcome resistance. Larger doses of single agents are not the main reason for combination therapy.
Question 4 of 5
A patient is started on a diuretic for antihypertensive therapy. The nurse expects that a drug in which class is likely to be used initially?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Thiazide diuretics are commonly used as first-line therapy for hypertension. They are effective in reducing blood pressure by promoting diuresis and decreasing plasma volume. Thiazide diuretics work by inhibiting sodium and chloride reabsorption in the distal convoluted tubule of the nephron, leading to increased excretion of water and electrolytes. This helps to reduce blood volume and subsequently lower blood pressure. Thiazide diuretics are generally well-tolerated and effective, making them a preferred choice for initial antihypertensive therapy.
Question 5 of 5
The nurse is reviewing the orders for a patient and notes a new order for an angiotensin-
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors, a type of angiotensin inhibitor, may have a serious interaction with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). When used together, they may reduce the effectiveness of the ACE inhibitor in lowering blood pressure and could potentially lead to decreased kidney function. It is important for the nurse to be aware of this interaction and monitor the patient closely for any adverse effects when these medications are used concurrently.