ATI RN
Test Bank Pharmacology Questions
Question 1 of 5
A patient who has had an MI is taking a beta blocker. What is the main benefit of beta blocker therapy for this patient?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Beta blockers are commonly prescribed for patients who have had a myocardial infarction (MI) because they help to reduce the workload on the heart by slowing down the heart rate. By reducing the heart rate, beta blockers decrease the heart's oxygen demand and workload, which can help to prevent future cardiac events. Slowing of the heart rate also allows for more efficient filling of the ventricles, which can improve cardiac output and overall heart function. Additionally, beta blockers can help to stabilize the electrical activity of the heart, which can reduce the risk of arrhythmias in patients who have experienced an MI.
Question 2 of 5
A patient with a history of pancreatitis and cirrhosis is also being treated for hypertension. Which drug will most likely be ordered for this patient?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: In a patient with a history of pancreatitis and cirrhosis, medications that may exacerbate pancreatic or hepatic issues should be avoided. Among the choices provided, diltiazem is the most suitable antihypertensive medication for this patient. Diltiazem is a calcium channel blocker that does not rely on hepatic metabolism for its action, making it a safe choice for patients with liver disease. In addition, it does not have a significant effect on pancreatic function, making it a preferred option in a patient with pancreatitis. Therefore, diltiazem is the most appropriate choice for this patient with a history of pancreatitis and cirrhosis who requires treatment for hypertension.
Question 3 of 5
A patient about to receive a morning dose of digoxin has an apical pulse of 53 beats/min. What will the nurse do next?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct action is to check the radial pulse for 1 full minute. When administering digoxin, it is important to assess the apical pulse before giving the medication. A heart rate of 53 beats/min is below the normal range, especially for a patient taking digoxin, which can slow heart rate further. The nurse should check the radial pulse for a full minute to verify the heart rate accurately and assess for any abnormalities. This step is crucial to ensure patient safety and prevent potential complications associated with bradycardia. In this situation, it is necessary to withhold the dose and notify the prescriber to determine the appropriate course of action based on the assessment findings.
Question 4 of 5
The nurse is preparing to give a potassium supplement. Which laboratory test should be checked before the patient receives a dose of potassium?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Before administering potassium supplements to a patient, it is essential to check the patient's serum potassium level. This allows the healthcare provider to assess the current potassium level in the body and determine if supplementation is necessary. Monitoring serum potassium levels is crucial because both low potassium (hypokalemia) and high potassium (hyperkalemia) levels can have serious health implications. Administering potassium supplements without checking the serum potassium level could lead to adverse effects or complications, so it is important to confirm the need for supplementation based on this laboratory test.
Question 5 of 5
The classification of digoxin is:
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Digoxin belongs to the class of medications known as cardiac glycosides. Cardiac glycosides, such as digoxin, are commonly used in the treatment of heart failure and certain types of irregular heartbeats (arrhythmias). They work by affecting the heart muscle and helping to improve the heart's ability to pump blood effectively. Digoxin is particularly effective in controlling heart rate and symptoms in patients with congestive heart failure and atrial fibrillation. It is important to monitor digoxin levels carefully due to its narrow therapeutic index and potential for toxicity.