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
When taking Digoxin, low levels of what can cause toxicity?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: When taking Digoxin, low levels of potassium can cause toxicity because digoxin competes with potassium for binding sites on the sodium-potassium pump in cardiac cells. Low potassium levels can lead to increased binding of digoxin to the pump, resulting in increased intracellular calcium levels and an increased risk of digoxin toxicity, including arrhythmias. Therefore, monitoring and maintaining adequate potassium levels are crucial in patients taking digoxin to prevent toxicity.
Question 3 of 5
A patient is receiving heparin therapy as part of the treatment for a pulmonary embolism. The nurse monitors the results of which laboratory test to check the drug™s effectiveness?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The nurse monitors the activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT) to check the effectiveness of heparin therapy in a patient with a pulmonary embolism. Heparin works by inhibiting the clotting cascade, specifically by potentiating the activity of antithrombin III, which inactivates thrombin and factor Xa. Monitoring the aPTT helps determine the appropriate dosage of heparin to maintain therapeutic levels of anticoagulation and prevent clot formation without increasing the risk of bleeding. The desired therapeutic range for aPTT when a patient is on heparin therapy is usually 1.5 to 2.5 times the control value. Monitoring aPTT levels regularly helps ensure that the patient is receiving the correct dose of heparin for effective treatment of the pulmonary embolism.
Question 4 of 5
Meperidine hydrochloride (Demerol) is given to a client who is experiencing post-operative pain. Which of the following are the side effects of the medication, except?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Meperidine hydrochloride (Demerol) is an opioid analgesic used for pain relief, but it is known to cause side effects. Tremors are not a common side effect associated with Meperidine. Diarrhea, sweating, and dizziness are commonly reported side effects of this medication. Tremors are more commonly associated with stimulant medications or conditions like anxiety or certain neurological disorders.
Question 5 of 5
A patient has a new prescription for a blood pressure medication that may cause him to feel dizzy during the first few days of therapy. Which is the best nursing diagnosis for this situation?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Dizziness is a common side effect of many blood pressure medications, particularly during the initial days of therapy. This side effect increases the patient's risk of falls or other injuries, especially in elderly patients or those with mobility issues. The nursing diagnosis 'Risk for injury' is the most appropriate because it directly addresses the potential harm caused by dizziness. While 'Activity intolerance' and 'Self-care deficit' may be relevant in some cases, they do not specifically address the immediate risk posed by dizziness. 'Disturbed body image' is unrelated to this scenario. Therefore, 'Risk for injury' is the best diagnosis to guide nursing interventions, such as monitoring the patient and educating them on safety measures.