ATI RN
ATI Practice Exam Pharmacology The Endocrine System Questions
Question 1 of 5
Which of the following describes the relationship of the blood concentration attained with initial dosing and the dose of drug given
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The relationship of the blood concentration attained with initial dosing and the dose of drug given is best described by the concept of steady state. Steady state refers to the point at which the rate of drug input (dose) equals the rate of drug elimination, resulting in consistent drug levels in the blood. Achieving steady state typically requires several half-lives of the drug, during which the drug concentration gradually increases with each dose until it stabilizes. The dose of the drug given will influence how quickly steady state is reached and at what concentration the drug will be maintained in the body. Factors such as bioavailability, half-life, volume of distribution, and clearance play important roles in determining the dosage needed to reach and maintain steady state drug levels in the body.
Question 2 of 5
The nurse is preparing to administer phenytoin (Dilantin) to a patient who has a seizure disorder. The nurse notes that the last random serum drug level was 18 mcg/mL. What action Will the nurse take?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: A random serum phenytoin level of 18 mcg/mL is above the therapeutic range (usually 10-20 mcg/mL) and may indicate that the patient is at risk for toxicity. The nurse should contact the provider to discuss decreasing the phenytoin dose in order to prevent potential toxic effects such as ataxia, nystagmus, and confusion. Administering the current dose without addressing the elevated serum level could increase the risk of toxicity. Monitoring closely for toxicity (Choice D) is appropriate after the dosage adjustment is discussed with the provider. Reporting drug toxicity to the providers (Choice E) may be necessary if toxicity symptoms develop or if the provider does not respond to the recommendation to decrease the dose.
Question 3 of 5
The nurse reviews the list of medications and is aware that red blood cell production can be stimulated with which drug for anemia?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Epoetin alfa is a recombinant form of erythropoietin, a hormone that stimulates red blood cell production. It is used to treat anemia, particularly in patients with chronic kidney disease or those undergoing chemotherapy. Filgrastim and sargramostim stimulate white blood cell production, while interleukin 2 is used to boost the immune system. The nurse should recognize epoetin alfa as the appropriate drug for managing anemia and monitor the patient's hemoglobin levels during treatment.
Question 4 of 5
A 20-year-old woman comes to the clinic for follow-up related to isotretinoin use. Which information from the iPLEDGE program will the nurse provide to the patient? (Select all that apply.)
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The iPLEDGE program is a risk management program for isotretinoin to prevent fetal exposure. Patients must review iPLEDGE educational materials (B) and provide a negative pregnancy test before each monthly refill (C). Two methods of contraception are required, not one (A). Informed consent is required (D is incorrect). A 30-day, not 60-day, supply is prescribed (E is incorrect).
Question 5 of 5
A patient has just received a prescription for an enteric-coated stool softener. When teaching the patient, the nurse should include which statement?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Enteric-coated medications are designed to resist dissolution in the stomach and release the active ingredient in the intestines. Chewing or crushing the tablet can compromise the coating, leading to premature drug release and potential irritation of the stomach lining. Therefore, the nurse should instruct the patient to swallow the tablet whole without chewing. Taking the tablet with orange juice or avoiding other medications is not necessary, and crushing the tablet is contraindicated. Proper administration ensures the medication's effectiveness and minimizes the risk of adverse effects.