ATI RN
ATI Pharmacology Study Guide Questions
Question 1 of 5
The nurse is caring for a postoperative patient. The nurse will anticipate administering which medication to this patient to help prevent thrombus formation caused by slow venous blood flow?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Low-molecular-weight heparin (LMWH) is commonly administered to postoperative patients to help prevent thrombus formation caused by slow venous blood flow. LMWH works by inhibiting the activity of certain clotting factors, ultimately preventing the formation of blood clots. As a result, it is often used in the prevention and treatment of conditions such as deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolism (PE) in surgical patients. LMWH is preferred over traditional heparin due to its longer half-life, allowing for once or twice daily dosing, and reduced risk of heparin-induced thrombocytopenia (HIT).
Question 2 of 5
A client calls the nurse help-line and says, 'My friend and I have been swimming and drinking beer all day and he took a couple of swigs of Robitussin DM (dextromethorphan) about 15 minutes ago. Now he is acting funny and seeing things.' What should the nurse consider when formulating a response?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Dextromethorphan with alcohol causes dizziness and hallucinations , guiding the nurse to advise medical help. Dialysis , opioid status , and addiction are incorrect. D informs the response, making it key.
Question 3 of 5
Which of the following is NOT a pharmacologic property of histamine:
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Histamine is a biogenic amine that acts as a neurotransmitter in the body. It is known to have several pharmacologic properties, such as the ability to reduce gastric secretion (Choice A), relaxation of vascular smooth muscle (Choice B), contraction of bronchi (Choice C), and production of pain and itch (Choice E). However, histamine does not have a direct effect on free nerve endings. Its effects on pain and itch are mediated through activation of specific histamine receptors on nerve cells and not through direct action on free nerve endings.
Question 4 of 5
A male patient needs to receive a unit of whole blood. What type of intravenous (IV) device should the nurse consider starting?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: A large-bore catheter is recommended for whole blood transfusions to allow for the rapid administration of blood products and to prevent hemolysis. Smaller catheters may not accommodate the viscosity of whole blood and could increase the risk of complications. While patient comfort and past experiences are important, the primary consideration is the safe and effective delivery of the transfusion. Therefore, a large-bore catheter is the best choice.
Question 5 of 5
An important function of calcium is to
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Calcium regulates nerve transmission-e.g., neurotransmitter release, per physiology-not acid-base (HCO3-), glucose (insulin), or energy (ATP). Nerve function is key, per role.