ATI RN
ATI Pharmacology Made Easy 4.0 Questions
Question 1 of 5
Which of the following adverse effects is associated with levothyroxine (Synthroid) therapy?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Levothyroxine (Synthroid) is a synthetic thyroid hormone used to treat hypothyroidism. Overdose or excessive dosing can lead to symptoms of hyperthyroidism, including tachycardia (rapid heart rate), palpitations, and anxiety. Hypotension and bradycardia are not typical adverse effects of levothyroxine. Constipation is more commonly associated with hypothyroidism, not its treatment. Therefore, tachycardia is the correct answer as it reflects the potential for overstimulation of the cardiovascular system due to excessive thyroid hormone levels.
Question 2 of 5
Volume of distribution:
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Volume of distribution (Vd) is a pharmacokinetic parameter reflecting the extent a drug distributes into body tissues relative to plasma. It's not always a real volume, as it can exceed total body water (e.g., for lipophilic drugs), making that statement false. The second option is nonsensical due to unclear phrasing, but likely intends a ratio that's incorrectly stated. The third option reverses the correct formula and is also gibberish. The accurate definition is the amount of drug in the body divided by its concentration in plasma (Vd = Dose / Cp), which quantifies how widely a drug disperses. This isn't about area under the curve (AUC) or dose, as some might confuse with clearance. Understanding Vd is crucial for dosing adjustments, especially for drugs with high tissue affinity, where a large Vd indicates extensive distribution beyond plasma, impacting therapeutic strategies.
Question 3 of 5
A client has benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) and hypertension. Which medication could the client safely receive for hypertension?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Terazosin, an alpha-1 adrenergic blocker, treats both hypertension and benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) by relaxing smooth muscle in blood vessels and the prostate, lowering blood pressure and easing urinary symptoms. Sildenafil, used for erectile dysfunction, doesn't address hypertension or BPH and may cause hypotension, making it unsuitable here. Finasteride, a 5-alpha reductase inhibitor, shrinks the prostate for BPH but has no effect on blood pressure, missing the dual need. Tamsulosin, another alpha-1 blocker, relieves BPH symptoms but isn't typically used for routine hypertension management and risks severe hypotension. Terazosin's dual action makes it uniquely safe and effective, addressing both conditions without exacerbating either, unlike the others, which lack hypertensive benefits or pose risks in this context.
Question 4 of 5
The physician ordered a loading dose of medication for the patient; it is to be followed by a lower dose. When the patient receives the lower dose, she says to the nurse, 'I think my doctor made a mistake; my medication dose is too low.' What is the best response by the nurse?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: A loading dose rapidly achieves therapeutic levels, followed by a lower maintenance dose, a standard approach explained clearly here. Half-life isn't shortened-it's about concentration. ‘Always' oversimplifies. Side effect reduction isn't the goal-efficacy is. The larger initial dose's purpose reassures the patient, aligning with pharmacokinetic principles for quick action.
Question 5 of 5
A nurse working in an obstetric practice should consider which fact when discussing medication use with pregnant patients?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Pregnancy boosts lung perfusion, increasing inhaled drug absorption (e.g., anesthetics), a pharmacokinetic shift to note. Excretion may slow later, but not universally. Oral absorption isn't broadly reduced-GI changes vary. Avoiding all drugs is impractical-some conditions need treatment. Inhaled absorption informs safe use.