ATI RN
ATI Pharmacology Practice A Questions
Question 1 of 5
Phenytoin is an antiarrhythmic and anticonvulsant that has an unlabeled use for:
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Phenytoin is primarily known as an antiarrhythmic and anticonvulsant medication. However, it also has an unlabeled or off-label use for the management of neuropathic pain. Neuropathic pain is a condition that arises from damage or dysfunction affecting the nerves and can be challenging to treat. Phenytoin's mechanism of action in the central nervous system makes it potentially effective for neuropathic pain conditions, even though it is not its primary indication. It can help alleviate nerve-related pain, such as that associated with conditions like diabetic neuropathy or post-herpetic neuralgia. It is important to note that using medications for off-label purposes should be done under the guidance of a healthcare professional familiar with the drug's properties and potential side effects.
Question 2 of 5
Mannitol (Osmitrol), an osmotic diuretic, is contraindicated to which conditions? Select all that apply.
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Mannitol is contraindicated in patients with narrow-angle glaucoma. It can exacerbate the condition by causing an increase in intraocular pressure, leading to potential vision damage or loss. Therefore, caution should be exercised and alternative treatments considered for patients with narrow-angle glaucoma when considering the use of mannitol.
Question 3 of 5
A patient with a new prescription for a HMG-CoA (statin) drug is instructed to take the
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The best response among the options provided is "This timeframe correlates better with the natural diurnal rhythm of cholesterol production." Statins work by inhibiting HMG-CoA reductase, an enzyme responsible for cholesterol production in the liver. Cholesterol synthesis follows a diurnal rhythm, with higher levels produced at night. Therefore, taking a statin medication in the evening aligns with the body's natural pattern of cholesterol synthesis, optimizing the drug's effectiveness. This explanation helps the patient understand the rationale behind the timing of taking the medication and promotes better adherence to the prescribed regimen.
Question 4 of 5
The most serious adverse effect of tricyclic antidepressant (TCA) overdose is:
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs) are associated with a high risk of toxicity in overdose, with cardiac arrhythmias being the most serious and life-threatening complication. TCAs can block sodium channels in the heart, leading to prolonged QRS intervals, ventricular tachycardia, and even cardiac arrest. Hyperpyrexia, seizures, and metabolic acidosis can also occur, but cardiac arrhythmias are the primary concern due to their potential to cause sudden death. Immediate medical intervention is required to manage TCA overdose, including cardiac monitoring and administration of sodium bicarbonate.
Question 5 of 5
What type of diuretic is furosemide?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Furosemide is a loop diuretic. Loop diuretics act on the thick ascending limb of the loop of Henle in the kidney to inhibit sodium and chloride reabsorption, leading to increased excretion of water and electrolytes such as potassium and calcium. Loop diuretics are potent and are often used to treat conditions like edema, heart failure, and hypertension. Furosemide is commonly utilized to manage conditions such as congestive heart failure, high blood pressure, and edema associated with certain medical conditions.