ATI RN
Intro to Pharmacology ATI Questions
Question 1 of 5
The nurse is creating a plan of care for a patient with a new diagnosis of hypertension. Which is a potential nursing diagnosis for the patient taking antihypertensive medications?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Sexual dysfunction is a potential nursing diagnosis for a patient taking antihypertensive medications because certain classes of antihypertensive drugs, such as beta blockers and thiazide diuretics, have been known to cause sexual side effects. These effects may include erectile dysfunction in men and decreased libido or altered menstrual cycles in women. It is important for nurses to assess and address any sexual dysfunction concerns in patients on antihypertensive medications to improve quality of life and adherence to treatment. Diarrhea, urge urinary incontinence, and impaired memory are not typically associated with antihypertensive medications and would not be as relevant in this situation.
Question 2 of 5
The nurse is preparing to administer phenytoin (Dilantin) to a patient who has a seizure disorder. The nurse notes that the last random serum drug level was 18 mcg/mL. What action Will the nurse take?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The therapeutic range for phenytoin (Dilantin) is typically 10-20 mcg/mL. A level of 18 mcg/mL is at the upper end of the therapeutic range, and the patient may be at risk for toxicity, especially if symptoms are present. Therefore, the nurse should contact the provider to discuss potentially decreasing the phenytoin dose to avoid toxicity. Monitoring levels closely and reporting any signs of toxicity are also important actions, but the immediate action should be to address the potential for toxicity by discussing a dosage adjustment with the provider.
Question 3 of 5
A 36-year-old man is brought to the emergency department after being involved in a one-car motor vehicle accident where his car struck a telephone pole. He is a known chronic alcoholic. He smells alcohol on his breath, and his blood alcohol level is 300 mg/dL. Which of the following treatments should be given to him if he goes into alcohol withdrawal?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Alcohol withdrawal in a chronic alcoholic (300 mg/dL) requires lorazepam . This benzodiazepine mimics alcohol's GABA enhancement, preventing seizures and agitation. Buspirone treats anxiety, not withdrawal. Pentobarbital is excessive. Phenytoin targets seizures alone. Saline (E) supports but doesn't treat. Lorazepam's safety is key.
Question 4 of 5
A patient diagnosed with alcoholism has questions about his medications. The nurse correctly explains that alcoholism can be associated with deficiency of which vitamin?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Alcoholism is commonly associated with deficiencies in B-complex vitamins, particularly thiamine (B1), due to poor dietary intake and impaired absorption. Vitamin A (A), vitamin D (C), and vitamin K (D) deficiencies are less commonly linked to alcoholism.
Question 5 of 5
The physician orders penicillin for a female client who has a sinus infection. What is a priority question to ask the client prior to administering the medication?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Penicillin, a beta-lactam antibiotic, is generally safe (Category B) but requires pregnancy status clarification before administration. Pregnancy alters drug metabolism and dosing, and while penicillin poses minimal fetal risk, confirming status ensures no hypersensitivity or rare contraindications are overlooked, prioritizing maternal and fetal safety. Future pregnancy plans are less immediate, affecting long-term considerations, not current use. Breastfeeding matters due to minimal excretion in milk, but it's secondary to current pregnancy. Birth control interaction is negligible with penicillin, unlike other antibiotics. Asking 'Are you pregnant?' addresses the most urgent safety concern, aligning with nursing's role in preventing adverse outcomes, making A the priority question before initiating therapy.