ATI RN
ATI Capstone Pharmacology Assessment Questions
Question 1 of 9
What is the pharmacological action of metformin?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Metformin belongs to the class of medications known as biguanides. Biguanides work by decreasing glucose production in the liver and also improving insulin sensitivity in the muscles, helping to lower blood sugar levels in patients with type 2 diabetes. Additionally, metformin can also reduce glucose absorption in the intestines and increase glucose uptake in peripheral tissues. Its main pharmacological action is to improve glycemic control and reduce hyperglycemia in patients with diabetes.
Question 2 of 9
When giving a patient Lithium what is a life threatening side effect?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: One life-threatening side effect of lithium therapy is the risk of seizures. While seizures are a rare side effect, they can occur, especially at higher doses or in patients with a history of seizure disorders. It is important to monitor for any signs of seizures in patients taking lithium and to promptly address any potential neurological symptoms.
Question 3 of 9
A patient with a history of HF presents to the emergency department with difficulty breathing, cough, and edema of the lower extremities. The nurse anticipates administration of which type of medication?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: In the scenario described, the patient with a history of heart failure (HF) is presenting with symptoms of difficulty breathing, cough, and edema of the lower extremities. These signs and symptoms suggest acute decompensated heart failure (ADHF), which is characterized by a decrease in cardiac output and inadequate tissue perfusion. In this situation, the nurse would anticipate the administration of a positive inotrope medication.
Question 4 of 9
The nurse observes a short period of asystole on the cardiac monitor that resolves spontaneously immediately after administering adenosine IV to a patient who was experiencing paroxysmal supraventricular tachycardia. Which initial action is the most appropriate for the nurse?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Adenosine is used to treat paroxysmal supraventricular tachycardia (PSVT) by temporarily blocking AV node conduction, which can cause a brief period of asystole. This is an expected effect and typically resolves spontaneously. The nurse should closely monitor the patient and the cardiac monitor for the return of a normal rhythm. Calling a code (A), preparing epinephrine and atropine (B), or initiating CPR (C) is unnecessary unless the asystole persists or the patient becomes unstable.
Question 5 of 9
A patient is receiving an IV infusion of heparin and was started on warfarin therapy the night
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct statement is that the heparin provides anticoagulation until therapeutic levels of warfarin are reached. Heparin and warfarin are both anticoagulants but work in different ways. Heparin acts quickly to prevent blood clot formation while warfarin takes several days to reach its full effect. Therefore, heparin is often used initially to provide immediate anticoagulation while waiting for the warfarin to reach therapeutic levels. This dual therapy is common in clinical practice to ensure continuous anticoagulation.
Question 6 of 9
What is the pharmacological action of meç€æ˜€ormin?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Metformin belongs to the class of medications known as biguanides. Biguanides work primarily by decreasing glucose production in the liver and increasing insulin sensitivity in peripheral tissues, such as muscles. They also help improve glucose uptake and utilization by cells, leading to better control of blood sugar levels. Metformin is commonly used to treat type 2 diabetes mellitus and can also be used in the management of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).
Question 7 of 9
The nurse notes in the patient™s medication orders that the patient will be taking ibutilide (Corvert). Based on this finding, the nurse interprets that the patient has which disorder?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Ibutilide (Corvert) is a medication commonly used to treat atrial fibrillation, a type of irregular heart rhythm that originates in the heart's upper chambers (atria). It works by restoring normal heart rhythm in patients with atrial fibrillation. Therefore, the nurse notes the use of ibutilide in the patient's medication orders, indicating that the patient has atrial fibrillation.
Question 8 of 9
What is the common side effect that is normal with the initial therapy of Nitroglycerine due to increased vasodilation?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The most common side effect that is normal with the initial therapy of Nitroglycerine due to increased vasodilation is a headache. Nitroglycerine causes vasodilation of blood vessels, including the blood vessels in the head and brain. This can lead to headaches as a result of the increased blood flow and changes in blood vessel diameter. Headaches caused by Nitroglycerine are usually mild and transient. It is important to monitor patients for this expected side effect and educate them about it to ensure compliance with the medication regimen.
Question 9 of 9
A patient requires a nonopioid medication. The nurse knows that which medication will cause the least gastrointestinal distress?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Celecoxib is a selective COX-2 inhibitor, which means it primarily targets the COX-2 enzyme involved in inflammation and pain while sparing the COX-1 enzyme that protects the stomach lining. This selectivity reduces the risk of gastrointestinal distress, such as ulcers and bleeding, compared to non-selective NSAIDs like aspirin, ketorolac, and ibuprofen. Therefore, celecoxib is the best choice for patients who require a nonopioid medication with minimal gastrointestinal side effects. Nurses should consider this when selecting pain management options for patients with a history of gastrointestinal issues.