ATI RN
ATI PN Pharmacology Proctored Exam 2023 Questions
Question 1 of 5
In developing a plan of care for the patient, the nurse understands that the order for pegfilgrastim was prescribed for which reason?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Pegfilgrastim is a long-acting form of filgrastim, modified with polyethylene glycol (pegylated) to prolong its activity. It is administered once per chemotherapy cycle to stimulate white blood cell production and reduce the risk of neutropenia. Unlike filgrastim, which requires daily injections, pegfilgrastim's extended half-life allows for less frequent dosing. The nurse should educate the patient about the dosing schedule and monitor for side effects, such as bone pain.
Question 2 of 5
A woman with myoclonic seizures is well controlled with lamotrigine. She becomes pregnant and begins to have breakthrough seizures. What is most likely happening?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Pregnancy increases lamotrigine clearance via enhanced glucuronidation (UGT enzyme induction), lowering plasma concentrations and risking breakthrough seizures, as seen here. Worsening epilepsy is possible but less likely without prior progression. Increased concentrations would improve control, not worsen it. Loss of efficacy is unlikely if previously effective; pharmacokinetic changes are more plausible. Monitoring and dose adjustment during pregnancy, per epilepsy guidelines, address this common issue, making decreased concentrations the most likely cause.
Question 3 of 5
A 26-year-old alcoholic man is trying to quit drinking. He complains that previous attempts have been thwarted by intense anxiety and insomnia that occur in the absence of alcohol. These symptoms disappear when he resumes alcohol use. Which of the following medications will reduce this patient's anxiety and insomnia from his alcohol withdrawal?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Alcohol withdrawal (anxiety, insomnia) responds to benzodiazepines, but Methadone is listed-likely a typo for a benzo like lorazepam assumed. Acamprosate reduces cravings. Disulfiram deters drinking. Naltrexone (E) blocks reward. Methanol is toxic. Benzos calm withdrawal.
Question 4 of 5
The following are schedule II drugs, except :
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Schedule II drugs have a high potential for abuse and dependency but also have accepted medical uses. A, C, D, and E are all classified as schedule II drugs. However, heroin is not a schedule II drug; it is classified as a schedule I drug due to its extremely high potential for abuse and lack of accepted medical use in the United States.
Question 5 of 5
Following ingestion, a drug crosses a membrane from an area of higher concentration to an area of lower concentration. This is an example of
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Diffusion moves drugs passively from high to low concentration across membranes, like oral absorption, a pharmacokinetic staple. Active transport uses energy against gradients. Osmosis is water-specific. Metabolism alters drugs chemically. Diffusion fits, driving initial uptake.