ATI RN
ATI Capstone Pharmacology Assessment Questions
Question 1 of 5
The nurse observes a short period of asystole on the cardiac monitor that resolves spontaneously immediately after administering adenosine IV to a patient who was experiencing paroxysmal supraventricular tachycardia. Which initial action is the most appropriate for the nurse?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Adenosine is used to treat paroxysmal supraventricular tachycardia (PSVT) by temporarily blocking AV node conduction, which can cause a brief period of asystole. This is an expected effect and typically resolves spontaneously. The nurse should closely monitor the patient and the cardiac monitor for the return of a normal rhythm. Calling a code (A), preparing epinephrine and atropine (B), or initiating CPR (C) is unnecessary unless the asystole persists or the patient becomes unstable.
Question 2 of 5
Reye's syndrome, a potentially fatal illness associated with liver failure and encephalopathy is associated with the administration of which over-the-counter (OTC) medication?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Reye's syndrome is linked to the use of aspirin in children and adolescents, particularly during viral infections. It causes severe liver and brain damage. Acetaminophen, ibuprofen, and antihistamines are not associated with this condition. Avoiding aspirin in pediatric patients is critical to prevent this rare but life-threatening syndrome.
Question 3 of 5
A patient is receiving an IV infusion of heparin and was started on warfarin therapy the night
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct statement is that the heparin provides anticoagulation until therapeutic levels of warfarin are reached. Heparin and warfarin are both anticoagulants but work in different ways. Heparin acts quickly to prevent blood clot formation while warfarin takes several days to reach its full effect. Therefore, heparin is often used initially to provide immediate anticoagulation while waiting for the warfarin to reach therapeutic levels. This dual therapy is common in clinical practice to ensure continuous anticoagulation.
Question 4 of 5
The nurse notes in the patient™s medication orders that the patient will be taking ibutilide (Corvert). Based on this finding, the nurse interprets that the patient has which disorder?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Ibutilide (Corvert) is a medication commonly used to treat atrial fibrillation, a type of irregular heart rhythm that originates in the heart's upper chambers (atria). It works by restoring normal heart rhythm in patients with atrial fibrillation. Therefore, the nurse notes the use of ibutilide in the patient's medication orders, indicating that the patient has atrial fibrillation.
Question 5 of 5
A patient with a history of HF presents to the emergency department with difficulty breathing, cough, and edema of the lower extremities. The nurse anticipates administration of which type of medication?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: In the scenario described, the patient with a history of heart failure (HF) is presenting with symptoms of difficulty breathing, cough, and edema of the lower extremities. These signs and symptoms suggest acute decompensated heart failure (ADHF), which is characterized by a decrease in cardiac output and inadequate tissue perfusion. In this situation, the nurse would anticipate the administration of a positive inotrope medication.