ATI RN
Pharmacology of Drugs Acting on Cardiovascular System PDF Questions
Question 1 of 5
The beta blocker acebutolol is prescribed for dysrhythmias. What is the primary purpose of the drug?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The primary purpose of the beta blocker acebutolol in dysrhythmias is to decrease heart rate and decrease myocardial contractility. This is because beta blockers work by blocking the beta-adrenergic receptors in the heart, leading to a reduction in heart rate and myocardial contractility. This helps in controlling the rhythm of the heart and preventing arrhythmias. Choice A is incorrect as the primary purpose of acebutolol is not to increase oxygen to the systemic circulation. Choice B is incorrect as while beta blockers do help in maintaining heart rate, they do not necessarily regulate blood pressure directly. Choice D is incorrect as beta blockers actually decrease myocardial contractility rather than increase it.
Question 2 of 5
Which assessment data would indicate to the nurse that the patient who is prescribed a benzodiazepine is experiencing a medication side effect?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Dizziness. Benzodiazepines commonly cause dizziness as a side effect due to their central nervous system depressant effects. Dizziness can be an indicator of the medication affecting the patient's balance and coordination. Reduced irritability (B) and reduced nervousness (C) are actually intended therapeutic effects of benzodiazepines, not side effects. Physiological dependency (D) is a potential long-term consequence of benzodiazepine use but is not a direct side effect that can be easily assessed. Therefore, dizziness is the most immediate and observable sign of a medication side effect in a patient prescribed a benzodiazepine.
Question 3 of 5
A patient is recovering from abdominal surgery, which he had this morning. He is groggy but complaining of severe pain around his incision. What is the most important assessment data to consider before the nurse administers a dose of morphine sulfate to the patient?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: His respiratory rate. Before administering morphine sulfate, it is crucial to assess the patient's respiratory rate. Opioids like morphine can cause respiratory depression, especially in post-operative patients. Monitoring respiratory rate will help detect any signs of respiratory distress or depression, which can be life-threatening. Pulse rate (A) and appearance of the incision (C) are important but not as critical as respiratory rate in this scenario. The date of his last bowel movement (D) is not directly related to the immediate safety of administering morphine sulfate.
Question 4 of 5
A patient wants to take a ginseng dietary supplement. The nurse instructs the patient to look for which potential adverse effect?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Palpitations and anxiety. Ginseng is known to stimulate the central nervous system, potentially leading to palpitations and anxiety. This is an important adverse effect to watch for when taking ginseng. Incorrect Choices: A: Drowsiness - Ginseng is not typically associated with drowsiness, as it is known for its stimulant properties. C: Dry mouth - Dry mouth is not a common adverse effect of ginseng. D: Constipation - Constipation is not a known adverse effect of ginseng.
Question 5 of 5
A patient is in the intensive care unit because of an acute myocardial infarction. He is experiencing severe ventricular dysrhythmias. The nurse will prepare to give which drug of choice for this dysrhythmia?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: 1. Amiodarone is the drug of choice for severe ventricular dysrhythmias like those seen in acute myocardial infarction. 2. It has potent antiarrhythmic properties and can stabilize the heart's electrical activity. 3. Diltiazem and verapamil are calcium channel blockers used for supraventricular dysrhythmias, not ventricular. 4. Adenosine is used for terminating supraventricular tachycardias, not ventricular dysrhythmias. 5. Choosing amiodarone in this scenario is crucial for managing the life-threatening ventricular dysrhythmias effectively.