ATI RN
Cardiovascular Physiology Practice Questions Questions
Question 1 of 5
The client is taking a calcium channel blocker for arrhythmias. What class of anti-arrhythmic agent is this?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D: Class IV. Calcium channel blockers, such as verapamil and diltiazem, belong to Class IV anti-arrhythmic agents. These drugs work by blocking calcium channels in cardiac cells, leading to decreased conduction through the AV node and slowing of the heart rate. This is particularly effective in treating arrhythmias such as atrial fibrillation or supraventricular tachycardia. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect: A: Class IA agents (e.g., quinidine, procainamide) block sodium channels and have effects on potassium channels, not calcium channels. B: Class II agents (e.g., beta blockers) work by blocking beta-adrenergic receptors, not calcium channels. C: Class III agents (e.g., amiodarone, sotalol) primarily block potassium channels, not calcium channels, to prolong repolarization.
Question 2 of 5
The client is given low molecular weight heparin at home. In teaching the client, the nurse explains that the drug works by doing what?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Inactivates clotting factor Xa. Low molecular weight heparin works by binding to antithrombin III and inactivating factor Xa, which is essential in the coagulation cascade. This inhibits the formation of new clots. Choice A is incorrect because heparin does not directly act as an anti-platelet agent. Choice C is incorrect as heparin does not directly inactivate thrombin. Choice D is incorrect as heparin does not directly increase fibrinolysis.
Question 3 of 5
The client is taking a medication that is an ADP receptor blocker for the prevention of ischemic stroke. What might this medication be?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D: Plavix. Plavix is an ADP receptor blocker that inhibits platelet aggregation, reducing the risk of blood clot formation and preventing ischemic stroke. Aspirin (A) is an antiplatelet agent but works through a different mechanism. Heparin (B) is an anticoagulant that works by inhibiting thrombin and factor Xa, not through ADP receptor blocking. Warfarin (C) is a vitamin K antagonist that interferes with the synthesis of clotting factors, also not through ADP receptor blocking.
Question 4 of 5
The client is taking niacin for cholesterol reduction. What common adverse reaction should the nurse warn the client about?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D: Facial flushing. Niacin commonly causes facial flushing as an adverse reaction due to prostaglandin release. This is a well-known side effect and is usually harmless. Dizziness (A), urinary retention (B), and constipation (C) are not common adverse reactions associated with niacin use. It is important for the nurse to educate the client about the potential for facial flushing with niacin therapy to manage expectations and ensure compliance.
Question 5 of 5
The client has a sudden increase in heart rate and cardiac contractility. What part of the client’s body is likely activated?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D: The sympathetic nervous system. When the client experiences a sudden increase in heart rate and cardiac contractility, it indicates the activation of the sympathetic nervous system. This system is responsible for the "fight or flight" response, increasing heart rate and contractility to prepare the body for action. The parasympathetic nervous system (choice A) would have the opposite effect of slowing down the heart rate. The AV node (choice B) is a part of the heart's electrical system and is not directly responsible for increasing heart rate. The baroreceptors in the carotid sinus (choice C) help regulate blood pressure, not heart rate or contractility.