ATI RN
Cardiovascular Drugs Pharmacology Questions
Question 1 of 5
Which assessment finding should a nurse prioritize?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C - Temperature of 104°F (40°C). This finding indicates a high fever, which could be a sign of infection or serious illness requiring immediate attention. Fever can lead to complications if not addressed promptly. A: Respirations of 22 beats/minute are within normal range. B: Weight gain of 8 pounds in 2 months could be concerning but does not pose an immediate threat. D: Excessive salivation may indicate an issue, but it is not as urgent as a high fever. Prioritizing assessment based on the severity of the condition is crucial for timely intervention and optimal patient outcomes.
Question 2 of 5
Captopril has been ordered for a patient. The nurse should teach the patient that the most commonly occurring side effect of an angiotensin-converting enzyme drug is which of the following?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: Dry cough. Angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors like captopril can cause a dry, persistent cough due to accumulation of bradykinin. This side effect occurs in up to 20% of patients taking ACE inhibitors. Nausea, vomiting, headache, and dizziness are less commonly associated with ACE inhibitors. It is important for the nurse to educate the patient about this potential side effect as it can be bothersome but usually not dangerous. A dry cough can indicate the need to discontinue the medication and consult a healthcare provider.
Question 3 of 5
A patient tells the nurse, “My doctor prescribed Paxil (paroxetine) for my depression. I assume I’ll have side effects like I had when I was taking Tofranil (imipramine).” The nurse’s reply should be based on the knowledge that paroxetine is a:
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Rationale: 1. Paroxetine is categorized as an SSRI (Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitor), not a tricyclic antidepressant like Tofranil. 2. SSRIs, such as Paxil, work by increasing serotonin levels in the brain to alleviate depression. 3. Selective norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (Choice A) target norepinephrine, not serotonin. 4. Tricyclic antidepressants (Choice B) like Tofranil work differently from SSRIs. 5. MAO inhibitors (Choice C) are another class of antidepressants that inhibit monoamine oxidase, not serotonin reuptake.
Question 4 of 5
What part of the brain is responsible for regulating pituitary hormones and is known to regulate the body’s temperature?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D: Hypothalamus. The hypothalamus is responsible for regulating pituitary hormones through the release of various hormones that control the pituitary gland. It also plays a crucial role in regulating the body's temperature through thermoregulation. The thalamus (A) is involved in relaying sensory information, the cerebellum (B) is primarily responsible for motor coordination, and the limbic system (C) is associated with emotions and memory. Therefore, the hypothalamus is the only choice that directly relates to regulating pituitary hormones and body temperature.
Question 5 of 5
The nurse is assessing a patient for contraindications to drug therapy with acetaminophen (Tylenol). Which patient should not receive acetaminophen?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C because acetaminophen is primarily metabolized in the liver. Patients with a history of liver disease may have impaired liver function, leading to decreased metabolism of acetaminophen and potential toxicity. Fever and headache are common indications for acetaminophen use and do not necessarily contraindicate its use. Peptic ulcer disease is not a contraindication for acetaminophen as it does not directly affect the gastrointestinal system.