ATI RN
ATI RN Pharmacology 2023 Questions
Question 1 of 5
When counseling a male patient about the possible adverse effects of antihypertensive drugs, the nurse will discuss which potential problem?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: One potential adverse effect of antihypertensive drugs, particularly beta-blockers and diuretics, is impotence. Antihypertensive medications can affect sexual function in males by causing erectile dysfunction or impotence due to their mechanism of action on blood vessels and circulation. It is important for the nurse to inform the patient about this possible side effect so that appropriate management strategies or alternative treatment options can be discussed. Impotence can have a significant impact on a patient's quality of life and adherence to medication, so open communication and education are essential in managing this issue.
Question 2 of 5
Which condition does the nurse identify as a late manifestation of hypokalemia?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Palpitations are a late manifestation of hypokalemia. Hypokalemia is a condition characterized by low levels of potassium in the blood. Potassium plays a vital role in maintaining normal heart function. When potassium levels are low, it can lead to abnormal heart rhythms, including palpitations. Other symptoms of hypokalemia, such as muscle weakness, lethargy, and even hypotension, may be present before palpitations occur. Therefore, palpitations are considered a late manifestation of hypokalemia that signals significant potassium depletion and should be addressed promptly to prevent serious cardiac complications.
Question 3 of 5
The nurse assumes care of a patient in the post-anesthesia care unit (PACU). The patient had abdominal surgery and is receiving intravenous morphine sulfate for pain. The patient is asleep and has not voided since prior to surgery. The nurse assesses a respiratory rate of 10 breaths per minute and notes hypoactive bowel sounds. The nurse will contact the surgeon primarily to report which condition?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The primary concern in this scenario is respiratory depression. The patient receiving intravenous morphine sulfate with a respiratory rate of 10 breaths per minute indicates hypoventilation, which can progress to respiratory failure. This poses a critical risk to the patient's safety and requires immediate intervention to prevent further complications, such as respiratory arrest. Contacting the surgeon to report this condition is essential for prompt assessment and appropriate management. While paralytic ileus, somnolence, and urinary retention are also potential concerns, respiratory depression takes precedence due to its life-threatening nature.
Question 4 of 5
What would be the teaching priority for a diabetic patient being treated with a nonselective beta-blocker?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Because the beta-blockers stop the signs and symptoms of a sympathetic stress reaction, the signs and symptoms associated with hypo- or hyperglycemia, the diabetic patient taking a beta-blocker will need to understand this and learn new indicators of these reactions. Taking his pulse, weekly weighing, and avoiding smoke-filled rooms are good health practices and should be done, but not specifically needed by a diabetic patient taking a beta-blocker. The nurse should emphasize the importance of recognizing new signs of blood glucose fluctuations.
Question 5 of 5
A patient looks up the drug he is taking in a drug guide. The patient asks the nurse why the physician prescribed a medication that has a lethal dose measure. What is the best response by the nurse?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Lethal dose (e.g., LD50) from research guides safe dosing by showing toxicity thresholds, reassuring the patient it informs, not dictates, prescription. It's not just research trivia-doctors use it indirectly. Side effect watching doesn't explain it. Deferring to the doctor avoids education. Research value ties to safety, clarifying its relevance.