ATI RN
Foundations and Adult Health Nursing Test Bank Questions
Question 1 of 5
A patient with heart failure is prescribed digoxin. Which electrolyte imbalance increases the risk of digoxin toxicity?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Hypokalemia (low levels of potassium) increases the risk of digoxin toxicity. This is because digoxin competes with potassium for binding sites on the sodium-potassium ATPase pump in the cell membrane. When potassium levels are low, there is an increased binding of digoxin to these pumps, leading to enhanced entry of calcium into the cells. This can result in an increased intracellular calcium concentration, leading to digoxin toxicity and potential cardiac arrhythmias. Therefore, monitoring and correcting potassium levels is crucial in patients prescribed digoxin to reduce the risk of toxicity.
Question 2 of 5
A patient with a history of chronic kidney disease is prescribed erythropoietin-stimulating agents (ESAs) for anemia management. Which parameter should the nurse monitor closely during ESA therapy?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: When a patient with chronic kidney disease is prescribed erythropoietin-stimulating agents (ESAs) for anemia management, the parameter that should be monitored closely by the nurse is the hemoglobin levels. Hemoglobin levels indicate the patient's response to ESA therapy and are essential in assessing the effectiveness of the treatment in addressing anemia. Monitoring hemoglobin levels helps ensure that the patient's anemia is controlled within the target range to avoid both the risks of under-treatment (resulting in persistent anemia) and over-treatment (increased risk of adverse outcomes such as hypertension, stroke, or cardiovascular events).
Question 3 of 5
A patient with a history of chronic kidney disease is prescribed phosphate binders. Which instruction should the nurse include in patient education about phosphate binder therapy?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct instruction that the nurse should include in patient education about phosphate binder therapy is to "Take phosphate binders with meals." Phosphate binders are medications given to patients with chronic kidney disease to help control high phosphate levels in the blood. Taking phosphate binders with meals allows them to bind to the phosphorus present in the food, reducing its absorption in the body. This helps to lower blood phosphate levels effectively. Instructing the patient to take phosphate binders with meals ensures optimal binding of phosphorus from the diet, which is crucial for managing phosphate levels in patients with chronic kidney disease.
Question 4 of 5
A patient is prescribed a benzodiazepine for the management of anxiety. Which instruction should the nurse include in patient education about benzodiazepine therapy?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Consuming alcohol while on benzodiazepine therapy can increase the central nervous system depressant effects of benzodiazepines, leading to excessive sedation, respiratory depression, and even overdose. It is important for patients to avoid alcohol to prevent these potential dangerous interactions and to ensure the safe and effective use of their medication.
Question 5 of 5
A patient is prescribed a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) for the management of osteoarthritis. Which adverse effect should the nurse monitor closely in the patient?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: NSAIDs are known to increase the risk of gastrointestinal complications, particularly gastrointestinal bleeding, ulcers, and perforation. This risk is higher in patients who are elderly, have a history of peptic ulcer disease, are taking high doses of NSAIDs, or are using them for a prolonged period. It is important for the nurse to closely monitor the patient for signs and symptoms of gastrointestinal bleeding, such as abdominal pain, black or tarry stools, vomiting blood, and anemia. Prompt identification and management of these complications are essential to prevent serious consequences. Monitoring for gastrointestinal adverse effects is crucial when a patient is prescribed NSAIDs for managing conditions like osteoarthritis.