ATI RN
Cardiovascular Drugs Pharmacology NCLEX Questions Questions
Question 1 of 5
Drugs useful in treatment of hypertension include the following EXCEPT:
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: In this question, the correct answer is B) Methysergide. Methysergide is not typically used in the treatment of hypertension. Nifedipine (A), Methyldopa (C), and Hydralazine (D) are all drugs commonly used in the treatment of hypertension. Nifedipine is a calcium channel blocker that helps lower blood pressure by relaxing blood vessels. Methyldopa is a centrally acting alpha-2 adrenergic agonist that reduces blood pressure by decreasing peripheral vascular resistance. Hydralazine is a direct-acting vasodilator that relaxes blood vessels, leading to decreased blood pressure. Educationally, this question reinforces the importance of knowing the pharmacological agents used in the management of hypertension. Understanding the mechanisms of action and indications for various antihypertensive medications is crucial for nursing practice, especially when preparing for exams like the NCLEX. It also highlights the need for critical thinking to differentiate between drugs that are indicated for a specific condition and those that are not.
Question 2 of 5
A client is prescribed phenelzine (Nardil). Which of the following statements by the client should indicate to a nurse that the discharge teaching about this medication has been successful? (Select the one tha does not apply.)
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D) “I’m going to miss my caffeinated coffee in the morning.” This statement indicates successful teaching about phenelzine (Nardil) because it is an MAOI (monoamine oxidase inhibitor) that interacts with tyramine-containing foods like caffeinated beverages, potentially leading to hypertensive crisis. Option A is incorrect because informing the surgeon about Nardil is crucial but does not specifically relate to patient education about dietary restrictions. Option B is incorrect as it correctly identifies the need to avoid red wine due to its tyramine content. Option C is incorrect as it highlights the importance of reading food and medication labels to avoid tyramine-rich foods, aligning with the medication teaching. In an educational context, understanding dietary restrictions with MAOIs is essential to prevent adverse drug reactions. Teaching patients about these restrictions can prevent potentially life-threatening complications, making it a critical aspect of pharmacological education for healthcare professionals and patients.
Question 3 of 5
Which patient outcomes would be most applicable for the patient who has been taking benzodiazepines? Patient will state:
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: In the context of cardiovascular drugs pharmacology, the correct answer is option C) That alcohol is a substance to avoid while on the medication (benzodiazepines). This is because benzodiazepines are central nervous system depressants that can potentiate the effects of alcohol, leading to increased sedation, respiratory depression, and impaired cognitive function. Educating the patient to avoid alcohol while on benzodiazepines is crucial to prevent harmful interactions and adverse effects. Option A) That there are specific foods to avoid while on this medication is incorrect because benzodiazepines do not typically have specific dietary restrictions. Option B) An understanding of how to increase medication dosage is incorrect as patients should never adjust their medication dosage without consulting their healthcare provider due to the potential for overdose and other serious complications. Option D) An understanding that he or she can return to work while on this medication is incorrect as benzodiazepines can cause drowsiness and impair cognitive function, potentially affecting the patient's ability to safely perform work-related tasks. Educationally, this question highlights the importance of patient education regarding medication safety and potential drug interactions. It emphasizes the need for healthcare providers to educate patients about the specific precautions and lifestyle modifications necessary when taking certain medications to ensure optimal therapeutic outcomes and prevent harm.
Question 4 of 5
A nurse is planning care for a child who is experiencing depression. Which medication is approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the treatment of depression in children and adolescents?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: In the context of pharmacology for treating depression in children and adolescents, the correct answer is D) Fluoxetine (Prozac). Fluoxetine is the only medication approved by the FDA for use in children and adolescents for the treatment of depression. It belongs to the class of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and has been found to be effective and safe in this population. Option A) Paroxetine (Paxil), Option B) Sertraline (Zoloft), and Option C) Citalopram (Celexa) are also SSRIs commonly used to treat depression in adults. However, they are not FDA-approved for use in children and adolescents for depression treatment. It is important to note that prescribing medications off-label, especially in pediatric populations, should be done with caution and close monitoring due to potential risks and lack of extensive research data in this age group. Educationally, understanding the FDA-approved medications for specific age groups is crucial for healthcare providers, especially when caring for pediatric patients. Knowledge of appropriate medications based on age-specific guidelines ensures safe and effective treatment practices, minimizing the risk of adverse effects and promoting optimal patient outcomes.
Question 5 of 5
According to McKim (in “Dependence, addiction, and the self-administration of drugs”), the ‘priming effect’ of drugs is when:
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A) Exposure to a drug that they were previously addicted to can easily trigger a relapse in addiction for abstinent former addicts. This is because the 'priming effect' refers to the phenomenon where even a small exposure to the drug can activate the brain's reward system, leading to intense cravings and potentially triggering a relapse in individuals with a history of addiction. Option B is incorrect because while stressful stimuli can indeed contribute to relapse in addiction, the priming effect specifically pertains to exposure to the drug itself, not just stress. Option C is also incorrect because while stimuli associated with drug delivery can trigger cravings and potentially lead to relapse, the priming effect is more directly related to the drug's pharmacological action on the brain rather than external cues. Understanding the concept of the priming effect is crucial in pharmacology and addiction studies as it highlights the persistent nature of drug addiction and the importance of avoiding even small doses of addictive substances to prevent relapse. Educating healthcare professionals about these mechanisms is essential for effective treatment and support for individuals recovering from addiction.