ATI RN
Cardiovascular System Drugs Questions
Question 1 of 5
During the maintenance phase of treatment, a patient with bipolar disorder asks, “Do I have to keep taking lithium even though my mood is stable now?” Select the nurse’s best response.
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B because it emphasizes the importance of taking medication daily to prevent future relapses and recurrences in bipolar disorder. This response educates the patient on the necessity of maintenance treatment for long-term stability. Choice A is incorrect as it may imply stopping medication prematurely. Choice C provides a general guideline but lacks individualized advice. Choice D is incorrect as it questions the healthcare provider's decision without considering the patient's specific needs.
Question 2 of 5
A patient with bipolar disorder has an unstable mood, aggressiveness, agitation, talkativeness, and irritability. The nurse begins care planning based on the expectation that the health care provider is most likely to prescribe a medication classified as a(n):
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: mood stabilizer. For a patient with bipolar disorder experiencing unstable mood, aggressiveness, and talkativeness, a mood stabilizer would be the most appropriate medication. Mood stabilizers help regulate mood swings and prevent episodes of mania or depression. Anticholinergics (choice A) are not typically used to treat bipolar disorder. Psychostimulants (choice C) can exacerbate manic symptoms. Antidepressants (choice D) may trigger manic episodes if used alone without a mood stabilizer. Therefore, the most suitable option to address the symptoms described would be a mood stabilizer.
Question 3 of 5
A patient tells a nurse, “My doctor says my problem may be with the neurotransmitters in my brain. What are neurotransmitters?” The best reply would be:
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D because it provides a clear and concise definition of neurotransmitters as chemical messengers in the brain responsible for brain communication. This response directly addresses the patient's question and educates them on the role of neurotransmitters. Answer A is incorrect as it delays providing the necessary information about neurotransmitters to the patient. Answer B is incorrect as it assumes the patient is concerned about having a serious mental disorder, which may not be the case. Answer C is incorrect as it oversimplifies the treatment of neurotransmitter problems and may give the patient false expectations.
Question 4 of 5
A patient is receiving gabapentin (Neurontin), an anticonvulsant, but has no history of seizures. The nurse expects that the patient is receiving this drug for which condition?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Step 1: Gabapentin is commonly used to treat neuropathic pain. Step 2: Peripheral neuropathy is a type of nerve damage that causes pain. Step 3: Since the patient has no history of seizures, the most likely reason for receiving gabapentin is to manage pain associated with peripheral neuropathy. Step 4: Therefore, the correct answer is B: Pain associated with peripheral neuropathy. Summary: - Inflammation pain (Choice A) is not typically treated with gabapentin. - Depression associated with chronic pain (Choice C) may be managed with other medications. - Prevention of seizures (Choice D) is the primary indication for gabapentin in patients with a history of seizures, not in this case.
Question 5 of 5
A patient is being treated for ethanol alcohol abuse in a rehabilitation center. The nurse will include which information when teaching him about disulfiram (Antabuse) therapy?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B. When teaching a patient about disulfiram therapy, it is important to inform them about the common over-the-counter substances that contain alcohol, as consuming these can lead to a disulfiram-alcohol reaction. This reaction includes symptoms such as flushing, nausea, vomiting, and palpitations, which can be severe and potentially life-threatening. Therefore, the patient must avoid all sources of alcohol, including certain medications, mouthwashes, and even some foods. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because smoking cigarettes, experiencing similar effects as alcohol without euphoria, and assuming small amounts of alcohol are safe can all lead to serious consequences while on disulfiram therapy.