ATI RN
How to Study for ATI Pharmacology Proctored Exam Questions
Question 1 of 5
What agents are used primarily to treat cardiac-related conditions? (Select all that apply.)
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Drugs that block both alpha- and beta-adrenergic receptors are primarily used to treat cardiac-related conditions. Phentolamine, a nonselective alpha-adrenergic blocking agent, is used to treat extravasation of IV norepinephrine or dopamine and hypertension related to a pheochromocytoma. Alpha1-selective adrenergic blocking agents are used for treatment of hypertension and benign prostatic hyperplasia. The beta-adrenergic blocking agents are used to treat cardiovascular problems (hypertension, angina, migraine headaches) and to prevent reinfarction after myocardial infarction. Beta1-selective adrenergic blocking agents are used for treating hypertension, angina, and some cardiac arrhythmias. The nurse should understand the indications for these agents to ensure safe and effective administration.
Question 2 of 5
A client who is taking Methotrexate (Trexall) asks the nurse on what is the appropriate activity while taking the medication. The nurse advised the client to play which activity?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Tennis is a low-impact activity that is generally safe for patients on methotrexate, as it minimizes the risk of injury and bleeding. High-impact or contact sports like basketball, ice hockey, and football are discouraged due to the increased risk of trauma and bleeding, especially since methotrexate can cause myelosuppression. Encouraging safe physical activity is important for overall health, but precautions must be taken to avoid complications.
Question 3 of 5
Which patient is the best candidate to receive nesiritide therapy?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Nesiritide is a recombinant form of human B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP) that is used for the treatment of acutely decompensated heart failure (HF). It is specifically indicated for patients with acute decompensated HF who have dyspnea at rest. Nesiritide works by promoting vasodilation and natriuresis, which helps alleviate symptoms of acute decompensated HF such as dyspnea and edema. Therefore, the patient with acutely decompensated HF who has dyspnea at rest is the best candidate to receive nesiritide therapy to help improve their symptoms and hemodynamic status.
Question 4 of 5
A patient is in the intensive care unit and receiving an infusion of milrinone (Primacor) for severe
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Milrinone is a phosphodiesterase inhibitor used to improve cardiac contractility and reduce pulmonary congestion in patients with heart failure. Furosemide is a loop diuretic used to reduce fluid volume in patients with congestive heart failure. Given that both milrinone and furosemide are typically administered intravenously and may have potentially incompatible effects on fluid and electrolyte balance, it is critically important to administer them separately. Mixing these medications in the same intravenous line can lead to potential drug interactions or decrease the effectiveness of either drug.
Question 5 of 5
The nurse is obtaining a medication history on a patient presenting with chest pain. What drug classification would necessitate the nurse informing the provider before beginning the prescribed nitroglycerin?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Nitroglycerin is a vasodilator commonly used to treat angina and chest pain by relaxing blood vessels and increasing blood flow to the heart. When nitroglycerin is taken with phosphodiesterase inhibitors (such as sildenafil, tadalafil, vardenafil) used for erectile dysfunction, a profound drop in blood pressure can occur. This can lead to serious side effects like hypotension, dizziness, fainting, and even a potential risk of heart attack or stroke. Therefore, the nurse should inform the provider before administering nitroglycerin to a patient taking phosphodiesterase inhibitors to ensure safe medication management and possibly adjust the treatment plan as needed.