ATI RN
2023 Pharmacology ATI Questions
Question 1 of 5
Drugs that produce stupor
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Sedatives are a type of drug that depresses the central nervous system and can induce a state of calmness and relaxation. In higher doses, sedatives can lead to stupor, which is a state of near-unconsciousness or insensibility. Stupor is often characterized by a marked decrease in alertness and responsiveness. Examples of sedatives include benzodiazepines, such as Valium and Xanax, as well as non-benzodiazepine sedatives like Ambien and Lunesta.
Question 2 of 5
A patient is receiving digoxin 0.25 mg/day as part of treatment for HF. The nurse assesses the patient before medication administration. Which assessment finding would be of most concern?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The most concerning assessment finding for a patient receiving digoxin is a low serum potassium level (Option C). Hypokalemia increases the risk of digoxin toxicity, as low potassium levels enhance the effect of digoxin on the myocardium, leading to an increased risk of serious dysrhythmias. It is important to address and correct hypokalemia promptly to prevent potential adverse effects of digoxin. An apical heart rate of 58 beats/min (Option A) could be an expected finding for a patient on digoxin, and ankle edema +1 bilaterally (Option B) is a common symptom of heart failure. A serum digoxin level of 0.8 ng/mL (Option D) is within the therapeutic range for digoxin and is not concerning in the absence of other symptoms. Therefore, managing the low serum potassium level is of utmost
Question 3 of 5
A patient has received an IV dose of adenosine, and almost immediately the heart monitor shows
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Adenosine is a medication commonly used to treat certain types of irregular heartbeats, such as supraventricular tachycardia. One of the common side effects of adenosine administration is transient asystole or a brief pause in the electrical activity of the heart. This can cause the heart to stop beating momentarily, leading to a drop in blood pressure and a feeling of lightheadedness in the patient. Therefore, in this scenario where the heart monitor shows an immediate abnormality after adenosine administration, the nurse should prepare to administer cardiopulmonary resuscitation and be ready to intervene if the patient's heart rhythm deteriorates further. It is crucial to be proactive and prepared to respond quickly to any adverse effects of the medication to prevent potential harm to the patient. Regular monitoring should also continue to assess the patient's condition and response to treatment.
Question 4 of 5
A dopamine infusion was started in a patient's antecubital vein during resuscitation for profound hypotension, but the electronic infusion device is now sounding an alert for an occlusion. What is the most important immediate concern for the nurse?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Dopamine is a vasopressor used to treat hypotension by increasing cardiac output and systemic vascular resistance. An interruption in the infusion can lead to a sudden drop in blood pressure, which is life-threatening in a patient already experiencing profound hypotension. The nurse's immediate concern should be to ensure the infusion is restarted promptly. While infiltration and extravasation (A) are concerns, they are secondary to maintaining the infusion. Reporting the device (C) is not the priority, and hypertension (D) is unlikely due to an occlusion alarm.
Question 5 of 5
The nurse is caring for a patient with colorectal cancer who is to receive fluorouracil. Which symptom will be most important for the nurse to report to the health care provider?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Fluorouracil, an antimetabolite chemotherapy drug, can cause myelosuppression, leading to a decrease in platelets (thrombocytopenia). Bleeding gums is a sign of low platelet counts and potential bleeding risk, which can be life-threatening if not addressed promptly. Nausea, decreased appetite, and constipation are common side effects of chemotherapy but are not as urgent as bleeding gums, which indicates a potential hematologic emergency. The nurse should report this symptom immediately to the healthcare provider for further evaluation and intervention, such as platelet transfusion or dose adjustment.