ATI RN
Adult Health Nursing Study Guide Answers Questions
Question 1 of 5
A patient with a history of rheumatoid arthritis is prescribed methotrexate. Which laboratory parameter should be monitored closely during methotrexate therapy?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Methotrexate is a medication commonly used in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis. It is known to have potential hepatotoxic effects, meaning it can harm the liver. Monitoring liver function tests (such as alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), and bilirubin levels) is essential to detect any liver damage early on during methotrexate therapy. By closely monitoring liver function tests, healthcare providers can assess the medication's impact on the liver and determine if any dose adjustments or discontinuation of the drug is necessary to prevent further liver damage. Regular monitoring of liver function tests helps ensure the safe and effective use of methotrexate in patients with rheumatoid arthritis.
Question 2 of 5
A patient with a history of peptic ulcer disease is prescribed proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) for ulcer healing. Which information is important for the nurse to include in patient education about PPI therapy?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: While proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) are commonly prescribed for the treatment of peptic ulcer disease to help heal ulcers and reduce acid production, it is important for the nurse to educate the patient about potential risks associated with PPI therapy. PPIs have been associated with an increased risk of gastrointestinal bleeding, especially in patients with a history of peptic ulcer disease. It is crucial for the patient to be aware of this risk and to take precautions, such as avoiding other medications that can increase bleeding risk and informing healthcare providers about any signs of bleeding, such as black stools or abdominal pain. Educating the patient about this potential adverse effect allows for early recognition and prompt intervention if necessary.
Question 3 of 5
A patient with a history of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is prescribed warfarin therapy. Which instruction is essential for the nurse to include in patient education about warfarin therapy?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: It is essential for the nurse to instruct the patient to "Report any unusual bleeding or bruising to your healthcare provider." Warfarin is a medication that works by decreasing the clotting ability of the blood. This can increase the risk of bleeding, so it is important for the patient to be vigilant for any signs of abnormal bleeding. Prompt reporting of any unusual bleeding or bruising allows healthcare providers to adjust the dosage of warfarin to maintain a balance between preventing blood clots and minimizing the risk of bleeding complications. This instruction emphasizes the importance of close monitoring and communication with healthcare providers while on warfarin therapy.
Question 4 of 5
A patient is prescribed a beta-blocker for the management of hypertension. Which adverse effect should the nurse monitor closely in the patient?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Beta-blockers are a class of medications commonly used to manage hypertension. One of the main mechanisms of action of beta-blockers is to reduce heart rate and contractility by blocking the beta-adrenergic receptors in the heart. As a result, one of the potential adverse effects of beta-blockers is bradycardia, which refers to a slower than normal heart rate. Therefore, the nurse should closely monitor the patient for signs and symptoms of bradycardia when starting or adjusting the dose of a beta-blocker. Symptoms of bradycardia may include dizziness, fainting, fatigue, or shortness of breath. If bradycardia is severe or symptomatic, it may require dose adjustments or discontinuation of the beta-blocker to prevent complications.
Question 5 of 5
A patient is prescribed an anticoagulant for the prevention of venous thromboembolism (VTE). Which laboratory parameter should the nurse monitor closely during anticoagulant therapy?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The nurse should monitor the International Normalized Ratio (INR) closely during anticoagulant therapy for the prevention of VTE. The INR measures the clotting ability of the blood and is used to monitor the effectiveness of anticoagulant therapy, such as warfarin. Maintaining the INR within the target therapeutic range is crucial to prevent both excessive bleeding due to over-anticoagulation and clotting events due to under-anticoagulation. Close monitoring of the INR helps healthcare providers adjust the anticoagulant dosage as needed to ensure optimal therapeutic outcomes and minimize risks. Platelet count, serum sodium levels, and blood urea nitrogen (BUN) are important laboratory parameters to monitor for other medical conditions but are not specific to anticoagulant therapy.