ATI RN
ATI Pharmacology Study Guide Questions
Question 1 of 9
An important function of calcium is to
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Calcium regulates nerve transmission-e.g., neurotransmitter release, per physiology-not acid-base (HCO3-), glucose (insulin), or energy (ATP). Nerve function is key, per role.
Question 2 of 9
Midazolam is an effective anesthetic because it acts by
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Midazolam is a short-acting benzodiazepine widely used as an anesthetic due to its rapid onset and potent sedative effects. Its mechanism involves enhancing the activity of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), the primary inhibitory neurotransmitter in the brain, at GABA_A receptors—not GABA_B receptors, which are linked to different effects like muscle relaxation. By binding to a specific site on the GABA_A receptor, midazolam increases the frequency of chloride channel opening, leading to greater chloride ion conductance into neurons. This hyperpolarizes the neuron, making it less excitable and producing sedation, anxiolysis, and anesthesia. Dopamine enhancement is unrelated to its action, as is NMDA receptor blockade, which is a feature of drugs like ketamine. Partial agonism at serotonin (5HT) receptors also does not apply here. The facilitation of GABA-mediated chloride conductance is the precise mechanism that underpins midazolam's clinical utility as an anesthetic agent.
Question 3 of 9
What is the expected outcome for Valproate?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Valproate is an anticonvulsant medication commonly used to treat seizure disorders such as epilepsy. It works by stabilizing electrical activity in the brain, which helps to reduce the occurrence of seizures. Therefore, the expected outcome of Valproate treatment is a decrease in seizure activity and an improvement in seizure control.
Question 4 of 9
A male patient needs to receive a unit of whole blood. What type of intravenous (IV) device should the nurse consider starting?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: A large-bore catheter is recommended for whole blood transfusions to allow for the rapid administration of blood products and to prevent hemolysis. Smaller catheters may not accommodate the viscosity of whole blood and could increase the risk of complications. While patient comfort and past experiences are important, the primary consideration is the safe and effective delivery of the transfusion. Therefore, a large-bore catheter is the best choice.
Question 5 of 9
Which of the following is most suitable for migraine prophylaxis in an otherwise healthy 30-year-old woman?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Migraine prophylaxis reduces attack frequency. Ergotamine treats acute migraines, not prophylaxis, risking vasoconstriction. Paracetamol relieves pain but doesn't prevent migraines. Propranolol, a beta-blocker, reduces migraine frequency via vascular and CNS effects, proven effective and safe in healthy adults. Carbamazepine suits trigeminal neuralgia, not migraines. Sumatriptan is acute, not preventive. Propranolol's efficacy makes it first-line, balancing prevention and tolerability.
Question 6 of 9
When teaching a patient who is beginning antilipemic therapy about possible drug-food interactions, the nurse will discuss which food?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The nurse will discuss grapefruit juice when teaching a patient about possible drug-food interactions with antilipemic therapy. Grapefruit juice can inhibit the enzyme CYP3A4 in the liver, which can affect the metabolism of certain medications, including some antilipemic drugs. This interaction may lead to increased drug levels in the bloodstream, potentially causing harmful side effects. It is important for patients to be aware of this interaction and to consult their healthcare provider if they consume grapefruit juice while on antilipemic therapy.
Question 7 of 9
A patient is receiving fluid replacement. The nurse's health teaching with this patient includes which suggestions? (Select all that apply.)
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Monitoring weight daily (A) helps assess fluid balance, as sudden changes may indicate fluid retention or loss. Thirst (B) is an early sign of mild dehydration. Monitoring intake and output (C) is essential to evaluate fluid status. Avoiding calcium and chloride supplements (D) is not relevant to fluid replacement. Reviewing electrolyte labs (E) is important but not part of routine health teaching for fluid replacement.
Question 8 of 9
What is the classification for the drug valproate?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Valproate is classified as an anti-convulsant medication. It is commonly used to treat seizures, particularly in the management of epilepsy. Valproate works by affecting certain chemicals in the brain to control seizures and stabilize mood in some psychiatric conditions. It is not classified as an anti-diabetic, anti-ulcer agent, or anti-hypertensive medication.
Question 9 of 9
A nurse is working with a patient who is taking an adrenergic blocking agent. While assessing the patient’s medication history, the nurse discovers that the patient takes several alternative therapies. What herb is the nurse concerned may interact with the adrenergic blocking agent and affect the patient’s blood glucose level?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Di huang is an alternative therapy that can lower blood glucose when used in combination with adrenergic blocking agents. Ginseng increases antihypertensive effects; nightshade slows the heart rate; and saw palmetto increases the risk of urinary tract complications when used in combination with adrenergic blocking agents. The nurse should educate the patient about potential interactions and monitor blood glucose levels closely.