ATI RN
Pathophysiology Practice Exam Questions
Question 1 of 5
A patient is starting on alendronate (Fosamax) for osteoporosis. What instructions should the nurse provide to ensure the effectiveness of the medication?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is to take alendronate with a full glass of water and remain upright for at least 30 minutes. This is essential to prevent esophageal irritation and ensure proper absorption. Choice B is incorrect because taking alendronate at bedtime can increase the risk of esophageal irritation due to lying down. Choice C is incorrect as taking alendronate with milk can reduce its absorption. Choice D is incorrect because alendronate should be taken on an empty stomach to enhance its effectiveness.
Question 2 of 5
What specific instructions should the nurse provide to ensure proper administration of alendronate (Fosamax) for the treatment of osteoporosis?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is to take the medication with a full glass of water and remain upright for at least 30 minutes. This is important to prevent esophageal irritation and ensure proper absorption. Choice B is incorrect because alendronate should be taken in the morning on an empty stomach, at least 30 minutes before eating or drinking anything other than water. Choice C is incorrect because alendronate should not be taken with milk as it can interfere with its absorption. Choice D is incorrect because alendronate should be taken on an empty stomach, not with food.
Question 3 of 5
A male patient is concerned about the risk of prostate cancer while receiving finasteride (Proscar) for benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). What should the nurse explain about this risk?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A. Finasteride has been shown to lower the risk of developing prostate cancer. Studies have demonstrated that finasteride can reduce the incidence of prostate cancer. However, it is still recommended to have regular screening to monitor for any potential issues. Choice B is incorrect as finasteride has shown to have a positive effect on reducing prostate cancer risk. Choice C is inaccurate because finasteride decreases, not increases, the risk of prostate cancer. Choice D is incorrect as regular screening is still necessary despite the risk reduction associated with finasteride.
Question 4 of 5
A male patient with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is prescribed finasteride (Proscar). What should the nurse include in the patient education?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A) The medication is expected to reduce the size of the prostate, which should improve urinary symptoms over time. This is the most appropriate option to include in patient education for several reasons. Finasteride is a 5-alpha reductase inhibitor that works by reducing the production of dihydrotestosterone (DHT), which helps shrink the enlarged prostate over time. By educating the patient that the medication reduces the size of the prostate, the nurse prepares the patient for the gradual improvement in urinary symptoms, which may take several weeks to months to become fully effective. Option B is incorrect because finasteride does not provide immediate symptom relief, and it usually takes time for the medication to show its full effect. Option C is incorrect as BPH is a chronic condition, and finasteride helps manage symptoms but does not cure the condition. Option D is incorrect as while finasteride can cause sexual side effects like decreased libido, erectile dysfunction is a less common side effect and should not be highlighted as a primary concern in patient education unless the patient specifically asks about it. In an educational context, it is essential for nurses to provide accurate information about medications to empower patients to understand their treatment plan, manage expectations, and adhere to therapy effectively. Patient education contributes to medication adherence and better health outcomes by ensuring that individuals have realistic expectations and knowledge about their prescribed treatments.
Question 5 of 5
A male patient receiving androgen therapy is concerned about prostate cancer. What should the nurse explain about the risks associated with this therapy?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A. Finasteride, a type of androgen therapy, has been shown to reduce the risk of developing prostate cancer. It works by shrinking the prostate gland, which can help lower the risk of developing prostate cancer. However, while it may reduce the risk, regular screening is still recommended to monitor for any potential issues. Choice B is incorrect because finasteride does have an impact on reducing the risk of prostate cancer. Choice C is incorrect as finasteride is not known to increase the risk of developing prostate cancer. Choice D is incorrect as finasteride does have an effect on reducing the risk of prostate cancer.