ATI RN
ATI RN Pharmacology Online Practice 2023 A Questions
Question 1 of 5
A patient with coronary artery disease asks the nurse about the good cholesterol laboratory values. The nurse knows that good cholesterol refers to which lipids?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: High-density lipoproteins (HDLs) are often referred to as the "good cholesterol" because they help remove excess cholesterol from the bloodstream back to the liver for processing and excretion. Higher levels of HDL cholesterol are associated with a reduced risk of coronary artery disease and other cardiovascular diseases. A higher HDL level is considered beneficial for heart health, while lower levels are associated with an increased risk of heart disease. Monitoring HDL cholesterol levels is important in the management of coronary artery disease and assessing cardiovascular risk.
Question 2 of 5
A male patient has been started on a 5-alpha reductase inhibitor for the treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). Which information should the nurse provide?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: 5-alpha reductase inhibitors like finasteride for benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) require condom use during intercourse because the drug, present in semen, poses a teratogenic risk to a pregnant partner, potentially causing fetal abnormalities. Storing it securely protects children from exposure, as it's hazardous to developing systems. Blood donation is prohibited during and shortly after use due to residual drug in plasma, risking harm to recipients, especially pregnant women. Heavy exercise isn't restricted-activity doesn't alter its efficacy or safety. Condom use is a priority education point, directly addressing reproductive safety, a unique concern tied to its mechanism and pharmacokinetics.
Question 3 of 5
The nurse administers IV mannitol to a client with cerebral edema. Which parameter should the nurse monitor closely?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Mannitol, an osmotic diuretic, reduces cerebral edema by drawing fluid into the vasculature, excreted via urine. Monitoring urine output ensures efficacy and prevents fluid overload or renal strain, critical in brain injury. BP and pupils matter but follow diuresis. Temperature is unrelated. Urine output aligns with mannitol's action, key in cerebral edema where ICP reduction hinges on fluid shift, making A the priority parameter.
Question 4 of 5
Which drug in the following list has an analgesic effect which is not mediated wholly or partly by binding to opioid receptors?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Analgesics often act via opioid receptors. Codeine, a weak mu-opioid agonist, relieves mild pain. Tramadol combines mu agonism with serotonin/norepinephrine reuptake inhibition. Dextropropoxyphene is a mu agonist, buprenorphine a partial agonist. Nefopam's analgesia involves monoamine reuptake inhibition and possibly NMDA antagonism, not opioid receptors, distinguishing it. This non-opioid mechanism suits patients intolerant to opioids, offering an alternative in pain management.
Question 5 of 5
A patient is receiving intravenous (IV) potassium supplements. What is the most important nursing implication when administering this drug?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: IV potassium must always be diluted in IV fluids and administered via an infusion pump to prevent rapid infusion, which can cause life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias. Administering undiluted potassium or too quickly can lead to hyperkalemia and cardiac arrest. While central lines (A) are sometimes used, potassium can also be given through a peripheral IV if properly diluted. Chilling potassium (C) is unnecessary and could cause discomfort. Preservatives (D) are not a primary concern with IV potassium administration.