ATI RN
ATI Cardiovascular Drugs Quizlet Questions
Question 1 of 5
A patient is taking lovastatin. Which serum level is most important for the nurse to monitor?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D: Hepatic enzymes. Lovastatin is a statin medication that can potentially cause liver damage. Monitoring hepatic enzymes, such as AST and ALT, is crucial to assess liver function and detect any signs of hepatotoxicity. Elevations in these enzymes may indicate liver injury and warrant further evaluation or discontinuation of the medication. A: Blood urea nitrogen is not directly affected by lovastatin and is more commonly monitored for kidney function. B: Complete blood count is not specific to monitoring for lovastatin-related side effects. C: Cardiac enzymes are not typically monitored in patients taking lovastatin unless there are specific cardiac concerns. In summary, monitoring hepatic enzymes is essential in patients taking lovastatin to ensure early detection of potential liver damage.
Question 2 of 5
The spouse of a patient who has just been diagnosed with cancer asks, “What do you think about the relationship of stress and the development of cancer? My spouse has been under a huge amount of stress at work, and now they’ve diagnosed cancer.” The answer that best reflects the current thinking about psychoneuroimmunology is:
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: "It’s thought that the immune system is negatively affected by high stress." This answer aligns with the current understanding in psychoneuroimmunology that high levels of stress can indeed weaken the immune system, making individuals more susceptible to illnesses like cancer. Chronic stress can lead to dysregulation of the immune system, increasing inflammation and impairing immune responses. Choice B is incorrect because there is substantial evidence supporting the impact of stress on the immune system. Choice C is inaccurate as numerous studies have demonstrated the link between stress and physical health outcomes. Choice D is misleading as various types of stress, not just grief and depression, can contribute to physical illness. Therefore, the correct answer is A as it accurately reflects the relationship between stress and the immune system, which is crucial in understanding the potential impact of stress on the development of cancer.
Question 3 of 5
A patient who has received some traumatic news is panicking and asks for some medication to help settle down. The nurse anticipates giving which drug that is most appropriate for this situation?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: diazepam (Valium). Diazepam is a benzodiazepine that is commonly used for its anxiolytic properties. It works by enhancing the effects of a neurotransmitter called GABA in the brain, leading to a calming effect. In the given situation of a patient panicking after receiving traumatic news, diazepam can help reduce anxiety and promote relaxation. Summary of why the other choices are incorrect: B: zolpidem (Ambien) is a sedative-hypnotic primarily used for treating insomnia, not anxiety or panic. C: phenobarbital is a barbiturate with sedative and anticonvulsant properties, but it is not commonly used for acute anxiety or panic attacks. D: cyclobenzaprine (Flexeril) is a muscle relaxant and does not have anxiolytic properties to help with panic or anxiety.
Question 4 of 5
An elderly patient will be taking a vasodilator for hypertension. Which adverse effect is of most concern for the older adult patient taking this class of drug?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D: Hypotension. Vasodilators relax blood vessels, leading to decreased blood pressure. In older adults, the risk of hypotension is higher due to age-related changes in cardiovascular function. This can result in dizziness, falls, and potential cardiovascular complications. Dry mouth (A), restlessness (B), and constipation (C) are not typically associated with vasodilators and are less concerning compared to the risk of hypotension in elderly patients.
Question 5 of 5
A patient is concerned about the adverse effects of the fibric acid derivative she is taking to lower her cholesterol level. Which is an adverse effect of this class of medication?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Diarrhea. Fibric acid derivatives are known to cause gastrointestinal side effects, such as diarrhea. This occurs due to increased bile acid secretion and can lead to loose stools. Constipation (choice A) is not typically associated with fibric acid derivatives. Joint pain (choice C) is not a common side effect of this medication class. Dry mouth (choice D) is also not a typical adverse effect of fibric acid derivatives. Hence, the correct adverse effect is diarrhea.