ATI RN
Common Cardiovascular Drugs Questions
Question 1 of 5
The nurse knows that which diuretic is most frequently combined with an antihypertensive drug?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Hydrochlorothiazide. It is most frequently combined with antihypertensive drugs due to its proven efficacy and safety profile in managing hypertension. It works by decreasing fluid volume in the body, leading to reduced blood pressure. Chlorthalidone and bendroflumethiazide are also thiazide diuretics, but hydrochlorothiazide is more commonly used in combination therapy. Potassium-sparing diuretics are typically not the first choice for combination with antihypertensive drugs, as they are often reserved for specific cases where potassium levels need to be preserved.
Question 2 of 5
A nurse explains to a patient with a mental health disorder that which part of the brain is responsible for fine motor coordination?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: Cerebellum. The cerebellum is responsible for fine motor coordination as it coordinates muscle movements, balance, and posture. It receives input from sensory systems and integrates this information to regulate motor movements accurately. The medulla (A) controls vital functions like breathing and heart rate. The thalamus (B) acts as a relay station for sensory information. The temporal lobe (D) is mainly involved in auditory processing and memory. Therefore, the cerebellum is the most appropriate choice for fine motor coordination due to its specific functions in motor control.
Question 3 of 5
The nurse is assessing a patient who has been admitted to the emergency department for a possible opioid overdose. Which assessment finding is characteristic of an opioid drug overdose?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: Respiration rate of 6 breaths/minute. Opioid overdose can cause respiratory depression, leading to a dangerously low respiration rate. This is a hallmark sign of opioid toxicity as opioids depress the central nervous system, including the respiratory center. Dilated pupils (A) are more characteristic of stimulant overdose. Restlessness (B) is not a typical symptom of opioid overdose, as opioids usually cause sedation. While opioids can lower heart rate (D), it is not as specific or as life-threatening as severe respiratory depression.
Question 4 of 5
The nurse is conducting a smoking-cessation program. Which statement regarding drugs used in cigarette-smoking–cessation programs is true?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A because rapid chewing of nicotine gum releases an immediate dose of nicotine, providing quick relief during cravings. This immediate effect helps manage withdrawal symptoms effectively. Option B is incorrect as transdermal patches provide a steady release of nicotine over time, not quick relief. Option C is incorrect; compliance is similar for both gum and patches. Option D is incorrect as the nicotine gum can be used up to 20-30 times per day, not just six.
Question 5 of 5
A patient is receiving thrombolytic therapy, and the nurse monitors the patient for adverse effects. What is the most common undesirable effect of thrombolytic therapy?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D: Internal and superficial bleeding. Thrombolytic therapy works by breaking down blood clots, which can lead to bleeding as a side effect. This occurs because the medication can also affect the body's ability to form clots at the site of injury. Internal and superficial bleeding are the most common and serious adverse effects of thrombolytic therapy. Dysrhythmias (choice A) are not typically associated with thrombolytic therapy. Nausea and vomiting (choice B) are common side effects of many medications, but not specifically thrombolytic therapy. Anaphylactic reactions (choice C) are rare but serious allergic reactions and are not the most common undesirable effect of thrombolytic therapy.