ATI RN
ATI PN Pharmacology Proctored Exam 2023 Questions
Question 1 of 5
What is an expected outcome for Lithium
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Lithium is commonly used in the treatment of bipolar disorder. One of the expected outcomes of lithium treatment is a decreased incidence of acute manic episodes. Lithium helps stabilize mood and reduce the frequency and severity of manic episodes in patients with bipolar disorder. It is considered one of the first-line treatments for managing symptoms of mania in bipolar disorder. While lithium has various physiological effects in the body, its primary use in mental health is to manage mood symptoms associated with bipolar disorder, particularly the manic phase. Therefore, the expected outcome of lithium treatment is a decrease in the incidence of acute manic episodes.
Question 2 of 5
Intravenous (IV) therapy is ordered for a patient with a serum sodium of 150 mEq/L. Which of the following does the nurse anticipate administering?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: In a patient with a high serum sodium level (hypernatremia), the goal is to lower the sodium concentration gradually to avoid rapid changes and prevent cerebral edema. A hypotonic solution like 0.25% normal saline (0.25% NS) is appropriate for this situation. The lower sodium content in the solution can help reduce the elevated serum sodium level by diluting it while providing some fluid for hydration. Solutions like 0.45% NS, 3% NS, and 5% NS have osmolarities that are higher than normal serum osmolality and would not be suitable for correcting hypernatremia.
Question 3 of 5
A woman with myoclonic seizures is well controlled with lamotrigine. She becomes pregnant and begins to have breakthrough seizures. What is most likely happening?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Pregnancy increases lamotrigine clearance via enhanced glucuronidation (UGT enzyme induction), lowering plasma concentrations and risking breakthrough seizures, as seen here. Worsening epilepsy is possible but less likely without prior progression. Increased concentrations would improve control, not worsen it. Loss of efficacy is unlikely if previously effective; pharmacokinetic changes are more plausible. Monitoring and dose adjustment during pregnancy, per epilepsy guidelines, address this common issue, making decreased concentrations the most likely cause.
Question 4 of 5
A 43-year-old Caucasian woman complains that her irises have been darkening. She says that she has been taking a drug for years to treat her glaucoma. Which of the following drugs is most likely causing the increased pigmentation of her irises?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Iris darkening in glaucoma treatment points to Latanoprost , a prostaglandin analog. It increases melanin in iridial melanocytes, a known side effect. Acetazolamide , a carbonic anhydrase inhibitor, Epinephrine , Pilocarpine , and Timolol (E) don't cause this. Latanoprost's cosmetic effect is well-documented, fitting her long-term use.
Question 5 of 5
One hour after receiving intravenous morphine sulfate, a patient reports generalized itching. The nurse assesses the patient and notes clear breath sounds, no rash, respirations of 14 breaths per minute, a heart rate of 68 beats per minute, and a blood pressure of 110/70 mm Hg. Which action will the nurse take?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The nurse should prepare an epinephrine injection in case of an anaphylactic reaction. While generalized itching is a common side effect of morphine, the presence of itching along with clear breath sounds and absence of rash may suggest a possible allergic reaction. Anaphylactic reactions can be life-threatening and may present with symptoms such as itching, respiratory distress, and cardiovascular collapse. Therefore, having epinephrine readily available is crucial in case an anaphylactic reaction occurs, as it is the treatment of choice for such a reaction.