ATI RN
ATI Pharmacology Practice B Questions
Question 1 of 5
Which of the following is used to calculate the loading dose of a drug required to reach an initial target blood concentration
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The loading dose of a drug required to reach an initial target blood concentration is based on the volume of distribution (Vd) of the drug. The volume of distribution represents the theoretical volume that would be necessary to contain the total amount of the administered drug at the same concentration as in the blood plasma. The loading dose is calculated by multiplying the target blood concentration by the volume of distribution of the drug. This initial dose helps to rapidly achieve the desired drug concentration in the body, especially when a drug has a long half-life or when steady-state levels need to be reached more quickly. Understanding the volume of distribution of a drug is crucial in dosage calculation to ensure therapeutic efficacy and avoid potential toxicity.
Question 2 of 5
A patient who is taking amitriptyline (Elavil) reports constipation and dry mouth. The patient notes that these
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The common side effects of amitriptyline (Elavil) include constipation and dry mouth. Increasing fluid intake can help alleviate these symptoms. Adequate hydration can aid in promoting bowel regularity and relieving dry mouth. It is important for the nurse to give the patient instructions to increase their fluid intake to manage these side effects rather than immediately discontinuing the medication or requesting a change in antidepressants. If the constipation and dry mouth persist or worsen despite increasing fluid intake, then the provider may need to be notified for further evaluation and management.
Question 3 of 5
A patient diagnosed with malignant melanoma, a skin cancer, is treated with interferon alfa-2a. The nurse teaches this patient about which side effect?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Flulike syndrome, characterized by fever, chills, fatigue, and muscle aches, is a common side effect of interferon alfa-2a. This occurs because the drug stimulates the immune system, mimicking the body's response to a viral infection. While gastrointestinal symptoms may occur, they are less common than flulike syndrome. Interferon alfa-2a does not typically cause an increase in white or red blood cells. The nurse should educate the patient about managing flulike symptoms, such as using antipyretics and staying hydrated.
Question 4 of 5
The nurse reviews the patient’s medication history. Based on the patient’s prolonged use of topical corticosteroids, which assessment will the nurse include? (Select all that apply.)
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Prolonged use of topical corticosteroids can cause thinning of the skin (B) and purpura (D) due to decreased collagen production and increased fragility of blood vessels. Weight gain (A) is associated with systemic, not topical, corticosteroid use. Erythematous lesions (C) are not typically caused by topical corticosteroids.
Question 5 of 5
The nurse is giving medications to a patient in heart failure. The intravenous route is chosen instead of the intramuscular route. The nurse knows that the factor that most influences the decision about which route to use is the patient's
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: In patients with heart failure, diminished circulation is a significant concern. The intravenous (IV) route is preferred over the intramuscular (IM) route because it ensures rapid and reliable drug delivery, especially in patients with compromised cardiac output. IM injections rely on adequate blood flow for absorption, which may be impaired in heart failure due to poor circulation. Altered biliary function, increased glomerular filtration, and reduced liver metabolism are less relevant to the choice of administration route in this context. Therefore, diminished circulation is the primary factor influencing the decision to use the IV route.