ATI RN
Intro to Pharmacology ATI Questions
Question 1 of 5
What is the therapeutic range for Lithium?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The therapeutic range for Lithium is typically considered to be 0.6-1.2 mEq/L for maintenance treatment. However, some sources may also suggest a wider therapeutic range of 0.5-2 mEq/L. Monitoring serum lithium levels is crucial to ensure that the patient is within the therapeutic range and to adjust the dosage accordingly to avoid toxicity or subtherapeutic levels. Thus, option C (0.5-2) provides a more comprehensive and inclusive range that is commonly referenced in clinical practice.
Question 2 of 5
Which of the following are possible mechanisms for the bactericidal/bacteriostatic effects of antiseptics and disinfectants?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: In pharmacology, understanding the mechanisms of action of antiseptics and disinfectants is crucial for their effective use. The correct answer, "precipitation of bacterial cell proteins," is a key mechanism for the bactericidal/bacteriostatic effects of these agents. Antiseptics and disinfectants work by denaturing proteins in bacterial cells, leading to their inactivation and eventual death. This mechanism disrupts the structural integrity and function of bacterial cells, rendering them unable to survive or reproduce. Option B, "disruption of bacterial cell membrane," is not typically a primary mechanism for antiseptics and disinfectants. While some agents may act by disrupting membranes, the precipitation of bacterial cell proteins is a more common and effective mechanism for achieving bactericidal effects. Option C, "inhibition of essential bacterial enzymes," and Option D, "inhibition of nucleic acid synthesis," are mechanisms more commonly associated with antibiotics rather than antiseptics and disinfectants. Antiseptics and disinfectants primarily target the structural components of bacterial cells rather than specific enzymatic pathways or nucleic acid synthesis. Educationally, grasping these distinctions enhances students' understanding of how different classes of antimicrobial agents function and how to select the most appropriate agent for a given clinical situation. By comprehending the specific mechanisms of action of antiseptics and disinfectants, healthcare professionals can make informed decisions to optimize patient care and infection control practices.
Question 3 of 5
The nurse is preparing to administer phenytoin (Dilantin) to a patient who has a seizure disorder. The nurse notes that the last random serum drug level was 18 mcg/mL. What action Will the nurse take?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The therapeutic range for phenytoin (Dilantin) is typically 10-20 mcg/mL. A level of 18 mcg/mL is at the upper end of the therapeutic range, and the patient may be at risk for toxicity, especially if symptoms are present. Therefore, the nurse should contact the provider to discuss potentially decreasing the phenytoin dose to avoid toxicity. Monitoring levels closely and reporting any signs of toxicity are also important actions, but the immediate action should be to address the potential for toxicity by discussing a dosage adjustment with the provider.
Question 4 of 5
The nurse frequently administers propranolol (Inderal) as treatment for what condition?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The beta-adrenergic blocking agents are used to treat cardiovascular problems (hypertension, angina, migraine headaches) and to prevent reinfarction after MI. The prototype drug, propranolol, was in fact the most prescribed drug in the country in the 1980s and is still considered a first-line drug. Propranolol does not prevent first MIs and it is not used for hypotension or cluster headaches. The nurse should understand the indications for propranolol to ensure safe and effective administration.
Question 5 of 5
A patient diagnosed with alcoholism has questions about his medications. The nurse correctly explains that alcoholism can be associated with deficiency of which vitamin?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: In this scenario, the correct answer is B) B-complex. Alcoholism can lead to deficiencies in B-complex vitamins, particularly thiamine (B1), which is essential for proper nerve function and metabolism. Individuals with alcohol use disorder often have poor dietary intake, impaired absorption, and increased excretion of these vitamins due to alcohol's effects on the gastrointestinal tract and liver. Thiamine deficiency can result in serious neurological complications such as Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome. Option A) A (beta carotene) is incorrect because beta carotene is a precursor to vitamin A and is not typically associated with alcoholism. Option C) D (ergocalciferol) is incorrect as it is a form of vitamin D and deficiencies in vitamin D are not commonly linked to alcoholism. Option D) K (phytonadione) is incorrect as it is a form of vitamin K, which is more related to blood clotting and bone health, rather than being a primary deficiency seen in alcoholism. Educationally, understanding the impact of alcoholism on vitamin deficiencies is crucial for healthcare professionals to provide appropriate care and education to patients with alcohol use disorder. Recognizing and addressing these deficiencies can help prevent serious health complications and improve overall patient outcomes.