ATI RN
Pharmacology Cardiovascular Drugs Study Guide Questions
Question 1 of 5
A patient takes an initial dose of a nitrate. Which symptom(s) will the nurse expect to occur?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Headaches. Nitrates dilate blood vessels, leading to vasodilation and potentially causing headaches due to increased blood flow to the brain. This is a common side effect of nitrate therapy. Nausea and vomiting (A) are less likely as direct effects of nitrates. Stomach cramps (C) are also less common since nitrates primarily affect blood vessels. Irregular pulse rate (D) is not a typical symptom of nitrate use.
Question 2 of 5
A patient who is taking lithium shares with the nurse, “I’m planning to breast-feed my baby who is due to be born in 2 months.” Which statement shows the best understanding of the effect of lithium on breast-feeding?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A because lithium is excreted in breast milk, posing a risk of toxicity to the infant. This statement demonstrates understanding of the direct impact of lithium on breast milk composition. Choice B is incorrect as lithium does not typically affect the taste of breast milk or cause gas in infants. Choice C is incorrect as lithium may not necessarily impact lactation directly. Choice D is incorrect as mood fluctuations from lithium do not directly affect breast milk production.
Question 3 of 5
The unit physicians have ordered MRI tests for four clients. For which client would the nurse decline to make test arrangements without further discussion with the physician? The client who:
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C because a client who has had a total knee replacement may have metal implants, which can interfere with the MRI imaging and pose a safety risk. The nurse should decline to make test arrangements without further discussion with the physician to ensure the safety and appropriateness of the test. Choice A (breastfeeding) is not a contraindication for an MRI, as it is safe for breastfeeding mothers. Choice B (allergic to iodine) is also not a reason to decline an MRI, as contrast agents without iodine can be used. Choice D (neuroleptic medication) may affect the MRI results, but it is not a reason to decline the test outright without further discussion with the physician.
Question 4 of 5
The wife of a patient who has been diagnosed with depression calls the office and says, “It’s been an entire week since he started that new medicine for his depression, and there’s no change! What’s wrong with him?” What is the nurse’s best response?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B. The nurse should explain that it may take up to 4 weeks to notice any therapeutic effects of the new medication for depression. This is because antidepressants typically require time to build up in the patient's system and start producing the desired effects. By advising to wait a little longer, the nurse is providing accurate information and managing the wife's expectations appropriately. Incorrect Choices: A: This answer prematurely suggests changing the medication without allowing sufficient time for the current medication to take effect. C: Increasing the dosage without waiting for the full therapeutic effect to manifest can lead to unnecessary side effects and risks. D: This answer is pessimistic and does not offer constructive guidance or hope for improvement, which is not appropriate in this situation.
Question 5 of 5
A patient is taking procainamide (Pronestyl) for a cardiac dysrhythmia. The nurse will monitor the patient for which possible adverse effect?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D: Diarrhea. Procainamide is known to have gastrointestinal side effects, including diarrhea. This adverse effect is important to monitor as it can lead to dehydration and electrolyte imbalances. Bradycardia (A) is not a common side effect of procainamide. Shortened QT interval (B) is not an adverse effect associated with procainamide. Dyspnea (C) is also not a common side effect of procainamide. Monitoring for diarrhea is crucial to prevent complications and ensure patient safety.