ATI RN
Pharmacology Practice Exam ATI Questions
Question 1 of 5
Which of the following does NOT describe a local anesthetic drug:
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Local anesthetic drugs typically contain an aromatic residue linked to an amine group, giving them a weak base property. They are usually soluble in water when converted into soluble salts, most commonly in the form of hydrochlorides. Additionally, local anesthetics are classified based on their chemical structure, with the key component being an ester or amide linkage. Therefore, choice D, which suggests an acidic group in the structure of a local anesthetic drug, is not accurate.
Question 2 of 5
The nurse assumes care of a patient in the post-anesthesia care unit (PACU). The patient had abdominal surgery and is receiving intravenous morphine sulfate for pain. The patient is asleep and has not voided since prior to surgery. The nurse assesses a respiratory rate of 10 breaths per minute and notes hypoactive bowel sounds. The nurse will contact the surgeon primarily to report which condition?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The primary concern in this scenario is respiratory depression. The patient receiving intravenous morphine sulfate with a respiratory rate of 10 breaths per minute indicates hypoventilation, which can progress to respiratory failure. This poses a critical risk to the patient's safety and requires immediate intervention to prevent further complications, such as respiratory arrest. Contacting the surgeon to report this condition is essential for prompt assessment and appropriate management. While paralytic ileus, somnolence, and urinary retention are also potential concerns, respiratory depression takes precedence due to its life-threatening nature.
Question 3 of 5
What would be the teaching priority for a diabetic patient being treated with a nonselective beta-blocker?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Because the beta-blockers stop the signs and symptoms of a sympathetic stress reaction, the signs and symptoms associated with hypo- or hyperglycemia, the diabetic patient taking a beta-blocker will need to understand this and learn new indicators of these reactions. Taking his pulse, weekly weighing, and avoiding smoke-filled rooms are good health practices and should be done, but not specifically needed by a diabetic patient taking a beta-blocker. The nurse should emphasize the importance of recognizing new signs of blood glucose fluctuations.
Question 4 of 5
The nurse routinely includes health teaching about vitamins to patients. Vitamin D has a major role in which process?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Vitamin D regulates calcium and phosphorus metabolism, promoting bone health by enhancing intestinal absorption of these minerals. Night blindness (A) is associated with vitamin A deficiency. Growth and development (C) are influenced by multiple vitamins, not just vitamin D. DNA and prothrombin synthesis (D) are unrelated to vitamin D.
Question 5 of 5
A patient is being counseled for possible participation in a clinical trial for a new medication. After the patient meets with the physician, the nurse is asked to obtain the patient's signature on the consent forms. The nurse knows that this 'informed consent' indicates which of the following?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Informed consent is a legal and ethical requirement that ensures the patient understands the purpose, procedures, risks, benefits, and alternatives of participating in a clinical trial. The patient must be fully informed before agreeing to participate, and they have the right to withdraw at any time. The consent process does not prevent the patient from suing for damages if harm occurs, nor does it withhold information to ensure the trial's success. Therefore, the nurse's role is to confirm that the patient has received all necessary information and voluntarily agrees to participate.