ATI RN
ATI Pharmacology Across the Lifespan Questions
Question 1 of 5
Which medication is the first-line drug for migraine prevention?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Propranolol. Propranolol is a beta-blocker that has shown efficacy in preventing migraines by reducing the frequency and severity of attacks. It is considered the first-line drug for migraine prevention due to its well-established effectiveness and safety profile. Propranolol works by reducing the excitability of the nervous system and preventing the dilation of blood vessels in the brain, which are key factors in migraine pathophysiology. Topiramate (B) is also commonly used for migraine prevention, but it is usually considered as a second-line option after propranolol due to its side effects and tolerability issues. Ergotamine (C) is used for acute migraine treatment, not prevention. Metoclopramide (D) is primarily used for treating nausea and vomiting associated with migraines, not for prevention.
Question 2 of 5
Which of the following is most appropriate to communicate to a patient receiving specific brands for thyroid hormone replacement?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D: No switching brands. When it comes to thyroid hormone replacement, consistency in the brand is crucial for stable hormone levels. Switching brands can lead to variations in dosage and affect treatment efficacy. A: Disulfiram like reaction with alcohol is not relevant to thyroid hormone replacement. B: Increased risk of endometrial cancer is not associated with thyroid hormone replacement. C: Contraindicated in pregnancy is not universally true and depends on the specific brand and individual patient circumstances.
Question 3 of 5
What mechanism of action or pharmacological action is best associated with pramlintide (Symlin)?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D: Synthetic amylin analog. Pramlintide is a synthetic analog of amylin, a hormone co-secreted with insulin. It works by mimicking the action of natural amylin to regulate glucose levels, slow gastric emptying, and suppress postprandial glucagon secretion. This helps to reduce postprandial blood sugar spikes in patients with diabetes. Choice A is incorrect because pramlintide does not have any impact on the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system. Choice B is incorrect as pramlintide does not block glycine and GABA release. Choice C is incorrect as pramlintide is not an NMDA receptor antagonist. Overall, the correct answer is D because pramlintide's mechanism of action closely resembles that of natural amylin.
Question 4 of 5
The pharmacological properties of which one of the following medications is similar to Amphetamine?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Methylphenidate. Methylphenidate is a central nervous system stimulant, like amphetamine, used to treat ADHD. Both drugs increase dopamine and norepinephrine levels in the brain. Atomoxetine (B) is a non-stimulant used for ADHD. Lithium (C) is used for bipolar disorder and does not have stimulant properties. Haldol (D) is an antipsychotic medication with different mechanisms of action.
Question 5 of 5
A patient developed hives and itching after receiving a drug for the first time. Which instruction by the nurse is accurate?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Step-by-step rationale for why choice A is correct: 1. Stopping the medication is crucial to prevent further allergic reactions. 2. Encouraging the patient to wear a medical alert bracelet will help healthcare providers quickly identify the allergy. 3. This action promotes patient safety and prevents future adverse reactions. Summary of why the other choices are incorrect: B: Anaphylactic reactions are severe and life-threatening, and hives and itching do not necessarily indicate an anaphylactic reaction. C: Lowering the dosage is not the appropriate response to an allergic reaction; stopping the medication is necessary. D: It is not safe to assume that the reaction was mild, as allergic reactions can escalate upon subsequent exposures.