ATI RN
Pharmacology Final ATI Quizlet Questions
Question 1 of 5
The patient asks the nurse why she needs to continue using table salt because her prescribed lithium (Eskalith) is a salt. What is the best response by the nurse?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Lithium, used for bipolar disorder, is a salt processed by the kidneys, which also regulate sodium. Low sodium levels (e.g., from reduced table salt intake) cause the kidneys to conserve lithium instead, increasing serum levels and risking toxicity—symptoms like tremors, confusion, or seizures. Choice B correctly explains this mechanism: adequate sodium intake (via table salt) prevents lithium retention, maintaining therapeutic levels. Choice A confuses the issue with sea salt, which isn't clinically distinct here. Choice C inaccurately suggests adjusting salt reactively, risking toxicity first. Choice D downplays salt's role compared to hydration, which, while important, doesn't negate sodium's necessity. The nurse must clarify that consistent sodium intake is essential for lithium's safe metabolism, making choice B the most accurate and educational response.
Question 2 of 5
What is the reaction of the body to high threshold mechanoreceptor?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: High threshold mechanoreceptors are responsible for sensing mechanical stimuli such as pressure and touch. When these receptors are activated, one of the body's reactions is to produce analgesia, which refers to the relief of pain or a decreased sensitivity to painful stimuli. This analgesic effect is a protective mechanism that helps reduce the perception of pain in response to potentially harmful mechanical stimuli. Therefore, the reaction of the body to high threshold mechanoreceptors is often associated with analgesia rather than tolerance, withdrawal reflex, inflammation, or suppuration.
Question 3 of 5
A 5-year-old boy presents to the emergency room with abdominal pain, nausea, and three episodes of bloody emesis. His mother is concerned because she saw him playing near the open medicine cabinet and her prenatal vitamins were opened. What is the most appropriate treatment for the child's overdose?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Prenatal vitamins likely caused iron overdose (bloody emesis). Deferoxamine chelates iron, preventing toxicity. Aminocaproic acid treats bleeding. Dimercaprol and Penicillamine target other metals. Succimer (E) is for lead. Deferoxamine is urgent for this child.
Question 4 of 5
A client with juvenile pilocytic astrocytoma who is receiving dexamethasone (Decadron) 4mg/IV every 6 hours to relieve symptoms of right arm weakness and headache. Which of the following assessments will concern the nurse most?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Dexamethasone (Decadron) is a corticosteroid used to reduce inflammation and edema in brain tumors. A client no longer recognizing family members indicates a potential worsening of neurological status, such as increased intracranial pressure or tumor progression, which is a critical concern. Elevated blood glucose and weight gain are common side effects of steroids but are less urgent. Persistent headaches are expected but less concerning than cognitive changes. Therefore, cognitive decline is the most alarming assessment.
Question 5 of 5
A nurse is analyzing the laboratory studies on a client receiving dantrolene sodium (Dantrium). Which of the following laboratory tests would identify an adverse effect associated with the use of the medication?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Dantrolene sodium is associated with hepatotoxicity, making liver function tests essential for monitoring adverse effects. Elevated liver enzymes (ALT, AST) may indicate liver damage, requiring discontinuation of the drug. Blood urea nitrogen and creatinine are used to assess kidney function, while triglyceride levels are unrelated to dantrolene's primary adverse effects. Regular monitoring of liver function is critical to ensure patient safety during treatment.