ATI RN
Use of Psychotropic Medications Questions
Question 1 of 5
What is the expected outcome for a patient who is considered a "intermediate metabolizer"?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: As an intermediate metabolizer, the patient may have variations in drug metabolism, leading to altered drug levels and potentially increased risk for drug-drug interactions. This is due to slower or inefficient metabolism of certain medications, which can result in drug accumulation and adverse effects when combined with other drugs. Therefore, the correct answer is B. The other choices are incorrect because: A: Incorrect - Intermediate metabolizers may still require medication dosage adjustments. C: Incorrect - Providers may need to decrease, not increase, drug dosages for intermediate metabolizers. D: Incorrect - Intermediate metabolizers may experience subtherapeutic effects due to variability in drug metabolism.
Question 2 of 5
SSRIs, SNRIs, and tricyclic antidepressants increase levels of which neu- rotransmitter?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Serotonin. SSRIs, SNRIs, and tricyclic antidepressants work by inhibiting the reuptake of serotonin, leading to increased levels of this neurotransmitter in the synaptic cleft. This increase in serotonin helps regulate mood and emotions, making it an effective treatment for depression. Dopamine, GABA, and Glutamate are not primarily affected by these antidepressants, making them incorrect choices.
Question 3 of 5
Which neurotransmitter in considered the chief inhibitory neurotransmit- ter?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: GABA. GABA (Gamma-aminobutyric acid) is the chief inhibitory neurotransmitter in the central nervous system. It works by reducing the activity of neurons, leading to a calming effect. Histamine (A) is involved in the sleep-wake cycle, dopamine (B) is associated with reward and motivation, and glutamate (D) is the primary excitatory neurotransmitter in the brain. Therefore, GABA is the correct answer as it plays a crucial role in inhibiting neural activity.
Question 4 of 5
A male patient reports to the nurse, 'I’m told I have memories of childhood abuse stored in my unconscious mind. I want to work on this'. Based on this statement, what information should the nurse provide the patient?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A because seeking help from a trained therapist is crucial for safely addressing childhood abuse memories. Therapists can provide a supportive environment and techniques to process trauma. Choice B (using defense mechanisms) is counterproductive as it avoids addressing the issue. Choice C (quick surfacing in psychodynamic therapy) is unrealistic, trauma processing takes time. Choice D (group sessions) may not provide the individualized support needed for trauma work. Ultimately, A is the best choice for addressing childhood abuse memories effectively and safely.
Question 5 of 5
A patient presents with symptoms of mania, including increased energy and impulsivity. The nurse recognizes that the patient is likely experiencing:
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Bipolar disorder. Mania is a key symptom of bipolar disorder, characterized by elevated mood, increased energy, and impulsivity. Patients with bipolar disorder experience episodes of mania alternating with episodes of depression. A panic attack (A) is characterized by sudden onset of intense fear or discomfort, not by persistent elevated mood. Post-traumatic stress disorder (C) involves symptoms related to a traumatic event, such as flashbacks and hypervigilance, not mania. Generalized anxiety disorder (D) is characterized by excessive worry and anxiety, not by the symptoms of mania.