ATI RN
Pharmacology ATI Practice Exam 1 Questions
Question 1 of 5
What is the therapeutic use of Digoxin?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The therapeutic use of Digoxin is primarily to increase cardiac output and slow down the heart rate. Digoxin is a cardiac glycoside that works by increasing the force of the heart's contractions, thereby improving cardiac output in conditions such as heart failure. Additionally, it also helps to slow down the heart rate by affecting the electrical conduction system of the heart. This combination of effects makes Digoxin valuable in treating conditions like heart failure, atrial fibrillation, and atrial flutter.
Question 2 of 5
Prescription only medicines are included in :
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Prescription-only medicines are included in Schedule IV of the Controlled Substances Act. Schedule IV controlled substances have a lower potential for abuse compared to drugs in Schedules I, II, and III. These prescription medications still require a prescription from a healthcare provider, but they have a lower potential for abuse and addiction, which allows them to be categorized in Schedule IV. Examples of Schedule IV substances include certain tranquilizers and sedatives like Xanax and Valium.
Question 3 of 5
A patient has been receiving intravenous heparin. When laboratory tests are drawn, the nurse has difficulty
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The patient is displaying signs and symptoms that are suggestive of potential heparin-induced thrombocytopenia (HIT), a serious adverse effect of heparin therapy. Bloody stools and abdominal pain can indicate gastrointestinal bleeding, which can occur as a complication of heparin therapy. Elevated partial thromboplastin time (PTT) and activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT) can also be seen in the setting of HIT.
Question 4 of 5
A patient receiving erythropoietin-stimulating drug has the following laboratory values: hemoglobin, 12.8 mg/dL; platelet count, 148,000/mm2; white blood cell count, 4800/mm2. Which action is most appropriate for the nurse to implement?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The patient's hemoglobin level of 12.8 mg/dL is within the target range for erythropoietin therapy, which is typically 10-12 g/dL. The nurse should continue monitoring the patient and ensure that the hemoglobin does not exceed 12 g/dL, as higher levels can increase the risk of thromboembolic events. Administering additional erythropoietin is unnecessary and potentially harmful. Stopping the medication abruptly is not indicated unless directed by the healthcare provider. Colony-stimulating factors are used to increase white blood cell counts, not hemoglobin levels.
Question 5 of 5
A patient is receiving intravenous (IV) potassium supplements. What is the most important nursing implication when administering this drug?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: IV potassium must always be diluted in IV fluids and administered via an infusion pump to prevent rapid infusion, which can cause life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias. Administering undiluted potassium or too quickly can lead to hyperkalemia and cardiac arrest. While central lines (A) are sometimes used, potassium can also be given through a peripheral IV if properly diluted. Chilling potassium (C) is unnecessary and could cause discomfort. Preservatives (D) are not a primary concern with IV potassium administration.