ATI RN
ATI Pharmacology Proctored Exam 2019 Quizlet Questions
Question 1 of 5
The nurse administers IV morphine to a postoperative client. Which parameter should the nurse assess first after administration?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Morphine, an opioid, relieves pain but depresses respiration via mu-receptor agonism. Assessing respiratory rate first detects early depression (e.g., <12 bpm), a life-threatening risk requiring immediate action (e.g., naloxone). Pain level gauges efficacy but follows safety. Blood pressure and pulse may drop, but respiratory compromise is morphine's primary danger post-op, where patients are vulnerable. Prioritizing breathing aligns with ABCs (airway, breathing, circulation) and morphine's pharmacology, ensuring oxygenation before comfort. This sequence prevents overdose escalation, making B the first parameter to assess after administration.
Question 2 of 5
A patient with extremely high blood pressure (BP) is in the emergency department. The physician will order therapy with nitroglycerin to manage the patient™s BP. Which form of nitroglycerin is most appropriate?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: In a patient with extremely high blood pressure requiring immediate treatment in the emergency department, the most appropriate form of nitroglycerin is the intravenous (IV) infusion. IV nitroglycerin allows for rapid onset of action, precise control of the dosage, and continuous monitoring of blood pressure to achieve the desired therapeutic effect. In this critical situation, the sublingual spray, transdermal patch, and oral capsule forms would not provide the rapid and precise control needed to manage the patient's high blood pressure effectively. IV nitroglycerin is the preferred route of administration for patients with hypertensive emergencies.
Question 3 of 5
A patient is taking digoxin (Lanoxin) and a loop diuretic daily. When the nurse enters the room with the morning medications, the patient states, I am seeing a funny yellow color around the lights. What is the nurse™s next action?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The patient's statement about seeing a funny yellow color around the lights could be an early sign of digoxin toxicity. Digoxin toxicity can cause visual disturbances, such as seeing yellow or green halos around lights. Therefore, the nurse's next action should be to assess the patient for other symptoms of digoxin toxicity to determine the need for further intervention or medical attention.
Question 4 of 5
During diuretic therapy, the nurse monitors the fluid and electrolyte status of the patient. Which assessment findings are symptoms of hyponatremia? (Select all that apply.)
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: In this question, the correct answer is option B) Lethargy. Hyponatremia is a condition characterized by low sodium levels in the blood. Lethargy is a common symptom of hyponatremia because low sodium levels can affect brain function and lead to fatigue and confusion. Option A) Red, flushed skin is not a symptom of hyponatremia. It is more commonly associated with conditions like fever or allergic reactions. Option C) Decreased urination is not a symptom of hyponatremia. In fact, hyponatremia can sometimes lead to an increase in urination due to the effects on kidney function. Option D) Hypotension is not a typical symptom of hyponatremia. Low sodium levels can affect blood volume and potentially lead to changes in blood pressure, but hypotension is not a direct symptom of hyponatremia. Educationally, understanding the signs and symptoms of electrolyte imbalances, such as hyponatremia, is crucial for nurses monitoring patients on diuretic therapy. Recognizing these symptoms early can help prevent complications and guide appropriate interventions to maintain electrolyte balance and ensure patient safety.
Question 5 of 5
While assessing a patient who is taking a beta blocker for angina, the nurse knows to monitor for which adverse effect?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Beta blockers are medications commonly used to treat angina by reducing the heart's workload and oxygen demand. One common side effect of beta blockers is bradycardia, which is a slower than normal heart rate. Since beta blockers work by blocking the effects of adrenaline on the heart, they can slow down the heart rate. It is important for the nurse to monitor the patient for signs and symptoms of bradycardia, such as fatigue, dizziness, and confusion, especially when assessing a patient taking beta blockers for angina.