ATI RN
Test Bank Pharmacology Questions
Question 1 of 5
The patient has a potassium level of 5.9 mEq/L. The nurse is administering glucose and insulin. The patient's wife says, 'He doesn't have diabetes, why is he getting insulin?' What is the best response by the nurse?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: In hyperkalemia (5.9 mEq/L), insulin shifts potassium into cells , lowering serum levels temporarily, paired with glucose to avoid hypoglycemia. Choice B misstates excretion. Choice C compares unnecessarily. Choice D attributes renal action incorrectly. A explains the mechanism accurately, making it the best response.
Question 2 of 5
The following drugs are contraindicated in asthma:
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Propranolol, a nonselective beta-blocker, can exacerbate asthma symptoms by causing bronchoconstriction.
Question 3 of 5
A patient who has had an MI is taking a beta blocker. What is the main benefit of beta blocker therapy for this patient?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Beta blockers are commonly prescribed for patients who have had a myocardial infarction (MI) because they help to reduce the workload on the heart by slowing down the heart rate. By reducing the heart rate, beta blockers decrease the heart's oxygen demand and workload, which can help to prevent future cardiac events. Slowing of the heart rate also allows for more efficient filling of the ventricles, which can improve cardiac output and overall heart function. Additionally, beta blockers can help to stabilize the electrical activity of the heart, which can reduce the risk of arrhythmias in patients who have experienced an MI.
Question 4 of 5
A patient has a digoxin level of 1.1 ng/mL. Which interpretation by the nurse is correct?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The therapeutic range for digoxin levels is typically between 0.8-2.0 ng/mL. A digoxin level of 1.1 ng/mL falls below the lower end of the therapeutic range, indicating that it is below the level considered effective for therapeutic benefits. Therefore, the correct interpretation by the nurse is that it is below the therapeutic level.
Question 5 of 5
A patient with a history of pancreatitis and cirrhosis is also being treated for hypertension. Which drug will most likely be ordered for this patient?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: In a patient with a history of pancreatitis and cirrhosis, medications that may exacerbate pancreatic or hepatic issues should be avoided. Among the choices provided, diltiazem is the most suitable antihypertensive medication for this patient. Diltiazem is a calcium channel blocker that does not rely on hepatic metabolism for its action, making it a safe choice for patients with liver disease. In addition, it does not have a significant effect on pancreatic function, making it a preferred option in a patient with pancreatitis. Therefore, diltiazem is the most appropriate choice for this patient with a history of pancreatitis and cirrhosis who requires treatment for hypertension.