ATI RN
ATI Pharmacology Study Guide Questions
Question 1 of 5
Which of the following is a first-line medication for generalized tonic-clonic seizures?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Topiramate, a broad-spectrum antiepileptic, treats generalized tonic-clonic seizures by blocking sodium channels, enhancing GABA, and inhibiting glutamate, making it a first-line option per guidelines. Ethosuximide targets absence seizures. Felbamate, vigabatrin, and ezogabine have narrower uses or toxicity risks (e.g., aplastic anemia, vision loss), limiting them to refractory cases. Topiramate's efficacy, tolerability, and broad action suit primary generalized seizures, distinguishing it as a standard choice.
Question 2 of 5
A nurse is working with a patient who is taking an adrenergic blocking agent. While assessing the patient’s medication history, the nurse discovers that the patient takes several alternative therapies. What herb is the nurse concerned may interact with the adrenergic blocking agent and affect the patient’s blood glucose level?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Di huang is an alternative therapy that can lower blood glucose when used in combination with adrenergic blocking agents. Ginseng increases antihypertensive effects; nightshade slows the heart rate; and saw palmetto increases the risk of urinary tract complications when used in combination with adrenergic blocking agents. The nurse should educate the patient about potential interactions and monitor blood glucose levels closely.
Question 3 of 5
What is the expected outcome for Valproate?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Valproate is an anticonvulsant medication commonly used to treat seizure disorders such as epilepsy. It works by stabilizing electrical activity in the brain, which helps to reduce the occurrence of seizures. Therefore, the expected outcome of Valproate treatment is a decrease in seizure activity and an improvement in seizure control.
Question 4 of 5
A client calls the nurse help-line and says, 'My friend and I have been swimming and drinking beer all day and he took a couple of swigs of Robitussin DM (dextromethorphan) about 15 minutes ago. Now he is acting funny and seeing things.' What should the nurse consider when formulating a response?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Dextromethorphan with alcohol causes dizziness and hallucinations , guiding the nurse to advise medical help. Dialysis , opioid status , and addiction are incorrect. D informs the response, making it key.
Question 5 of 5
The nurse is preparing to administer an injection to a preschool-age child. Which approaches are appropriate for this age group? (Select all that apply.)
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Preschool-age children benefit from brief, concrete explanations about medical procedures, as they have limited understanding of abstract concepts. Encouraging participation, such as allowing the child to choose a bandage or hold a toy, can reduce anxiety and increase cooperation. Providing comfort measures, such as praise or a small reward, after the injection helps reinforce positive behavior. While magical thinking is characteristic of this age group, it is not an appropriate strategy for explaining medical procedures. Therefore, the nurse should focus on concrete explanations, participation, and comfort measures.