ATI RN
ATI RN Pharmacology 2023 Proctored Exam Questions
Question 1 of 5
Enrique who is under chemotherapy has the following CBC results: WBC 5000/mm3, RBC platelet 10,000/mm3. Which of the following is he at risk for?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: A platelet count of 10,000/mm3 is critically low and places Enrique at significant risk for bleeding. Platelets are essential for blood clotting, and levels below 20,000/mm3 can lead to spontaneous bleeding, such as nosebleeds, gum bleeding, or internal hemorrhage. While a WBC count of 5000/mm3 is within the normal range, reducing the risk of infection, the extremely low platelet count is the primary concern. Angina is unrelated to platelet counts. Therefore, bleeding is the most immediate risk for Enrique.
Question 2 of 5
When administering the drug lithium, name one important side effect to watch for:
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: One important side effect to watch for when administering the drug lithium is seizures. Lithium is commonly used to treat bipolar disorder, but it can lower the seizure threshold and increase the risk of seizures in some patients. It is crucial to monitor individuals taking lithium for any signs of seizures or seizure activity and to promptly address any such occurrences. Regular monitoring of lithium levels and adjusting the dosage as necessary can help minimize the risk of seizures in patients receiving this medication.
Question 3 of 5
Regarding phenytoin, all the following are true EXCEPT:
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Phenytoin's oral bioavailability varies due to formulation and absorption, a true statement. It's highly plasma protein-bound (~90%), not poorly, making that false and the exception. Hepatic enzyme inducers (e.g., rifampicin) enhance its metabolism, true. At higher doses, its elimination shifts to zero-order due to saturated metabolism, true. Half-life ranges from 12-36 hours, also true. High protein binding affects free drug levels, critical for therapeutic monitoring, especially in hypoalbuminemia.
Question 4 of 5
When teaching a patient who is beginning antilipemic therapy about possible drug-food interactions, the nurse will discuss which food?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Grapefruit juice can interact with antilipemic medications, specifically statins, causing increased drug levels in the bloodstream. This can lead to a higher risk of side effects and adverse reactions. Therefore, patients on antilipemic therapy should be cautious about consuming grapefruit juice to prevent potential drug interactions.
Question 5 of 5
The nurse plans medication education for a client who receives a prescription for sildenafil (Viagra). What will the best plan by the nurse include?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Sildenafil (Viagra), a phosphodiesterase-5 inhibitor, has a dosing limit of one pill per 24 hours to avoid risks like prolonged erections or hypotension, a key safety point for education. Grapefruit juice increases sildenafil levels by inhibiting metabolism, not decreasing effects, risking intensified side effects. It's optimally taken 1 hour before sex, effective up to 4 hours-not 6-setting realistic timing expectations. Food, especially high-fat meals, delays absorption, so it's best on an empty stomach. The 24-hour limit ensures safe use, balancing efficacy with minimizing adverse effects, aligning with prescribing standards and making it the priority in client teaching.