ATI RN
ATI Pharmacology Practice A Questions
Question 1 of 5
When administering heparin subcutaneously, the nurse will follow which procedure?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: When administering heparin subcutaneously, the nurse should use a - to -inch, 25- to 30-gauge needle to inject the medication into the subcutaneous tissue. This needle size is appropriate for delivering the medication effectively and safely in the subcutaneous layer rather than deeper into the muscle. Using the correct needle size helps ensure proper absorption and reduces the risk of complications such as bleeding or bruising at the injection site.
Question 2 of 5
An 18-year-old college student is hanging shelves in his dorm room. He accidentally hits his thumb with the hammer, which subsequently becomes swollen and red. He takes some aspirin for the pain. Many enzymes and other proteins are activated in response to injury leading to inflammation. Production of which of the following mediators is inhibited by aspirin?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Aspirin reduces inflammation from injury. PGE2 , a prostaglandin, is inhibited by aspirin's COX blockade. HAT , IκB , and NF-κB are unrelated. NO isn't primarily affected. PGE2's reduction explains aspirin's analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects.
Question 3 of 5
The client receives beclomethasone (Beconase) intranasally as treatment for allergic rhinitis. He asks the nurse if this drug is safe because it is a glucocorticoid. What is the best response by the nurse?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Beclomethasone, an intranasal corticosteroid, treats allergic rhinitis with minimal systemic absorption, reducing risks like adrenal suppression seen with oral steroids. The response 'Intranasal glucocorticoids produce almost no serious adverse effects' reassures the client accurately, as side effects (e.g., nasal irritation) are mild and rare. Swallowing isn't a significant concern due to low bioavailability. Prolonged use might increase minor risks (e.g., epistaxis), but isn't the primary safety factor. Once-daily use aligns with dosing but doesn't define safety. The nurse's best response (A) addresses the client's fear with evidence-based reassurance, emphasizing the drug's localized action and safety profile.
Question 4 of 5
The patient comes to the emergency department following an overdose of aspirin, an acidic drug. What will the best plan of the nurse include?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Aspirin overdose, an acidic drug, causes metabolic acidosis; sodium bicarbonate alkalinizes urine, enhancing excretion by ionizing aspirin, reducing toxicity. IV fluids support hydration but don't target pH. Ammonium chloride acidifies, worsening acidosis. Proteins don't bind aspirin effectively in this context-albumin's role is minimal. Bicarbonate addresses salicylate poisoning directly, a standard emergency approach.
Question 5 of 5
The most serious adverse effect of tricyclic antidepressant (TCA) overdose is:
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs) are associated with a high risk of toxicity in overdose, with cardiac arrhythmias being the most serious and life-threatening complication. TCAs can block sodium channels in the heart, leading to prolonged QRS intervals, ventricular tachycardia, and even cardiac arrest. Hyperpyrexia, seizures, and metabolic acidosis can also occur, but cardiac arrhythmias are the primary concern due to their potential to cause sudden death. Immediate medical intervention is required to manage TCA overdose, including cardiac monitoring and administration of sodium bicarbonate.