ATI RN
Pharmacology Cardiovascular Drugs Study Guide Questions
Question 1 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 2 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 3 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.
Question 4 of 5
The nurse will instruct patients about a possible systemic effect that may occur if excessive amounts of topically applied adrenergic nasal decongestants are used. Which systemic effect may occur?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D: Palpitations. Topically applied adrenergic nasal decongestants can be absorbed systemically, leading to increased sympathetic activity. This can manifest as palpitations due to excessive stimulation of the heart. Heartburn (A) is not a systemic effect of adrenergic nasal decongestants. Bradycardia (B) is unlikely as these drugs typically cause tachycardia. Drowsiness (C) is more commonly associated with antihistamines, not adrenergic decongestants.
Question 5 of 5
Tick the feature of the sublingual route:
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Pretty fast absorption. Sublingual route involves placing the drug under the tongue for direct absorption into the bloodstream through the highly vascular sublingual mucosa. This bypasses the first-pass metabolism in the liver, leading to faster onset of action compared to oral administration. Choice B is incorrect because sublingual administration avoids exposure to gastric secretion. Choice C is incorrect as sublingual administration bypasses liver metabolism. Choice D is incorrect as the variety of doses does not specifically relate to the sublingual route.