ATI RN
Pharmacology Practice Exam ATI Questions
Question 1 of 5
The nurse administers IV furosemide (Lasix) to a client with heart failure. Which finding indicates a therapeutic effect?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Furosemide reduces fluid overload in heart failure by diuresis, decreasing edema , a direct therapeutic sign. BP may drop, not rise. Heart rate isn't primary'preload reduction matters. Thirst is a side effect. Edema reduction aligns with furosemide's action, critical in heart failure where congestion drives symptoms, making A the key finding.
Question 2 of 5
The chemotherapeutic DNA alkylating agents such as nitrogen mustards are effective because they:
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Chemotherapeutic DNA alkylating agents, such as nitrogen mustards, work by forming covalent bonds between alkyl groups on the drug and DNA strands. This cross-linking interferes with DNA replication and transcription, ultimately leading to cell death. This mechanism of action makes the alkylating agents effective in targeting rapidly dividing cancer cells.
Question 3 of 5
When counseling a male patient about the possible adverse effects of antihypertensive drugs, the nurse will discuss which potential problem?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: One potential adverse effect of antihypertensive drugs, particularly beta-blockers and diuretics, is impotence. Antihypertensive medications can affect sexual function in males by causing erectile dysfunction or impotence due to their mechanism of action on blood vessels and circulation. It is important for the nurse to inform the patient about this possible side effect so that appropriate management strategies or alternative treatment options can be discussed. Impotence can have a significant impact on a patient's quality of life and adherence to medication, so open communication and education are essential in managing this issue.
Question 4 of 5
The nurse will monitor a patient for signs and symptoms of hyperkalemia if the patient is taking which of these diuretics?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Spironolactone is a potassium-sparing diuretic that works by promoting potassium retention in the body. Therefore, patients taking spironolactone are at a higher risk of developing hyperkalemia, which is an elevated level of potassium in the blood. Hyperkalemia can lead to serious complications such as cardiac arrhythmias, muscle weakness, and even cardiac arrest. It is important for the nurse to monitor patients on spironolactone for signs and symptoms of hyperkalemia, such as weakness, numbness, tingling, or an irregular heartbeat. Other diuretics like hydrochlorothiazide (A), furosemide (B), and acetazolamide (C) do not typically cause hyperkalemia as they work to decrease potassium levels in the body.
Question 5 of 5
Which condition does the nurse identify as a late manifestation of hypokalemia?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Palpitations are a late manifestation of hypokalemia. Hypokalemia is a condition characterized by low levels of potassium in the blood. Potassium plays a vital role in maintaining normal heart function. When potassium levels are low, it can lead to abnormal heart rhythms, including palpitations. Other symptoms of hypokalemia, such as muscle weakness, lethargy, and even hypotension, may be present before palpitations occur. Therefore, palpitations are considered a late manifestation of hypokalemia that signals significant potassium depletion and should be addressed promptly to prevent serious cardiac complications.