ATI RN
Pharmacological Lifespan Treatment Questions
Question 1 of 5
The nurse is assessing a newly admitted older patient who has recently lost 15 pounds. The nurse notes that the patient is taking warfarin (Coumadin). Which laboratory tests will the nurse discuss with this patient’s provider?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D) Serum albumin and coagulation studies. When a patient on warfarin (Coumadin) presents with unexplained weight loss, it is crucial to assess their coagulation status and liver function. Warfarin works by inhibiting the synthesis of vitamin K-dependent clotting factors in the liver, so monitoring coagulation studies such as prothrombin time (PT) and international normalized ratio (INR) is essential to ensure the patient is within the therapeutic range and not at increased risk of bleeding. Option A is incorrect because blood glucose and C-reactive protein are not directly related to the assessment of a patient on warfarin with weight loss. Option B is incorrect as a complete blood count and hepatic function tests are not the most pertinent tests in this scenario. Option C is also incorrect as renal function tests and serum electrolytes do not directly address the concerns related to warfarin therapy in a patient with weight loss. In an educational context, understanding the rationale behind the need for specific laboratory tests in patients on anticoagulant therapy is crucial for nurses to provide safe and effective care. This knowledge ensures appropriate monitoring of medication effectiveness, potential side effects, and overall patient well-being.
Question 2 of 5
A nurse is preparing to teach a forgetful older adult patient about a multiple drug regimen to follow after discharge from the hospital. To help promote adherence, what will the nurse do?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: In teaching an older adult about a multiple drug regimen, clustering medication administration times as much as possible (Option C) is the most effective strategy to promote adherence. Older adults often face challenges with complex medication regimens due to forgetfulness and cognitive issues. By clustering medications, the nurse simplifies the schedule, reducing the chances of missed doses and confusion. Option A is incorrect as relying on a neighbor or friend to share teaching may not ensure accurate information or adherence. Option B, providing detailed written information, may overwhelm the patient and not address forgetfulness. Option D, ensuring understanding of drug actions and side effects, is important but may not directly address adherence issues faced by forgetful older adults. Educationally, it's crucial to understand the unique needs of older adults when teaching about medication regimens and to focus on practical strategies like clustering medication times to enhance adherence and promote positive health outcomes.
Question 3 of 5
The nurse is providing patient education about the application of transdermal estrogen spray. Which statement made by the patient best demonstrates understanding of the application of this medication? 'I should apply this medication to my:'
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Transdermal estrogen spray is specifically designed to be applied to the skin on the top of the thighs and the back of the calves, where absorption is optimal and irritation is minimized. Other sites like the waistline (used for patches), abdomen, arms (used for gels), or breasts (never used due to sensitivity and cancer risk) are incorrect for this formulation, making option D the correct answer.
Question 4 of 5
A patient calls the nurse to report that she forgot to take a combination OC pill during the third week of her cycle. She tells the nurse that she missed another pill earlier that week. The nurse will tell her to:
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: For missing two pills in the third week of a 28-day cycle, the patient should take a pill immediately, finish the active pills, skip the placebo pills, and start a new pack to maintain hormone levels and minimize ovulation risk. Backup contraception isn’t needed if fewer than three pills are missed in week 3, unlike earlier weeks, making option D correct over A or C.
Question 5 of 5
A nurse is teaching nursing students about the use of alpha-adrenergic antagonists. Which statement by the student indicates the *need for further teaching*?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: In this scenario, option C indicates a need for further teaching because it inaccurately states that dilation of veins by alpha-adrenergic antagonists improves cardiac output. This statement reflects a misunderstanding of the physiological effects of alpha-adrenergic antagonists. The correct answer is option C because the dilation of veins by alpha-adrenergic antagonists primarily leads to a reduction in venous return to the heart, which subsequently decreases preload and cardiac output. This results in a decrease in the workload of the heart and a subsequent decrease in arterial pressure. Option A is correct as alpha-adrenergic antagonists do block alpha1 receptors on arterioles and veins, leading to vasodilation. Option B accurately reflects that dilation of arterioles directly affects arterial pressure by reducing peripheral vascular resistance. Option D is also correct as venous dilation indirectly lowers arterial pressure by reducing venous return to the heart, decreasing preload, and subsequently reducing cardiac output. In an educational context, it is crucial for nursing students to understand the mechanisms of action of pharmacological agents to provide safe and effective patient care. Understanding the effects of alpha-adrenergic antagonists on the cardiovascular system is essential for nurses to administer these medications appropriately and monitor patients for desired outcomes and potential adverse effects.