ATI RN
Pharmacology Across the Lifespan Questions
Question 1 of 5
Which of the following organs produces bile to help the digestive system to break up fats?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: In pharmacology across the lifespan, understanding the role of different organs in the digestive system is crucial. The correct answer is D) liver. The liver is responsible for producing bile, which helps in the breakdown and digestion of fats. Bile is stored in the gallbladder and released into the small intestine to aid in the emulsification of fats, making it easier for enzymes to break them down. Option A) stomach is incorrect because the stomach's main role is to break down food mechanically and chemically through the action of gastric juices, not to produce bile. Option B) pancreas is involved in producing digestive enzymes and bicarbonate to neutralize stomach acid in the small intestine but not in producing bile. Option C) large intestine primarily absorbs water and salts from the material that has not been digested as food, and it does not produce bile. Educationally, this question highlights the importance of understanding the specific roles of organs in the digestive process and how they work together to ensure proper digestion and absorption of nutrients. This knowledge is essential for healthcare professionals to make informed decisions regarding pharmacological interventions that may impact the digestive system across different stages of life.
Question 2 of 5
The contents of an opened capsule or crushed medication is mixed into a “vehicle” to prevent:
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B) help the individual to consume the medication. When the contents of a capsule are mixed into a vehicle such as juice or applesauce, it makes it easier for the individual, especially those who have difficulty swallowing pills, to consume the medication. This method masks the taste or texture of the medication, making it more palatable and increasing the likelihood of successful administration. Option A is incorrect because mixing the medication into a vehicle is not primarily done to prevent it from settling at the bottom of the cup. The purpose is to aid in consumption, not just to ensure uniform distribution in the cup. Option C is incorrect because mixing the medication with a vehicle has more to do with ease of administration rather than preventing chemical changes due to air exposure. While some medications may degrade when exposed to air, this is not the primary reason for using a vehicle. Option D is incorrect because mixing medication with a vehicle does not directly prevent vomiting. Vomiting can be caused by various factors, but using a vehicle mainly helps with ease of consumption rather than preventing vomiting. In an educational context, it is crucial for healthcare providers to understand the importance of proper medication administration techniques, including using vehicles when necessary to aid patients in taking their medications effectively. This practice improves patient compliance and outcomes, especially in populations where swallowing difficulties are common.
Question 3 of 5
You are administering 100 mg. of Dilantin at 9:00 pm to one of the individuals to whom you have been authorized to administer medications and you discover that the 9:00 am Dilantin has not been initialed as given. What should you do?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: In this scenario, option D, which is to administer the 9:00 pm dose of Dilantin and immediately call the Nurse-Trainer for direction, is the correct choice. This option prioritizes the timely administration of the medication to ensure continuity of care while also seeking guidance from a more experienced healthcare professional to address the missed morning dose. Option A is incorrect because withholding the 9:00 pm dose without proper guidance could compromise the individual's treatment plan. Option B is also incorrect as administering a double dose of Dilantin can lead to adverse effects due to potential overdose. Option C is not the best choice as it delays seeking immediate guidance from the Nurse-Trainer, which is crucial in this situation. From an educational perspective, this scenario highlights the importance of communication and collaboration in healthcare settings. It underscores the significance of following medication administration protocols diligently and seeking guidance from supervisors when faced with uncertainty or discrepancies in the medication record. Adhering to these practices ensures patient safety and quality care delivery.
Question 4 of 5
Which of the following would be considered a medication error?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: In pharmacology, medication errors can have serious consequences for patients. Option C, giving both the morning and evening dose of Abilify, is considered a medication error because it results in a double dose which can lead to adverse effects or toxicity. This error violates the principle of administering medications safely and accurately. Option A is incorrect because administering Dilantin 30 minutes late is not ideal but may not significantly impact the therapeutic effect. Option B is incorrect as giving two 50 mg tablets instead of one 100 mg tablet still results in the correct dose. Option D is incorrect as adding milk to mashed potatoes to aid in administration may alter the medication's absorption but is not a clear medication error. Educationally, understanding medication errors is crucial for healthcare professionals to emphasize patient safety. It underscores the importance of attention to detail, following medication schedules precisely, and verifying doses to prevent adverse outcomes. By recognizing and learning from these scenarios, healthcare providers can improve their practice and minimize the risk of medication errors.
Question 5 of 5
A 45-year-old woman complains of intractable hiccups. She has no prior medical or surgical history. Physical examination and direct laryngoscopy fails to reveal any anatomic defects. What is the most appropriate treatment for this patient?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A) Chlorpromazine. Chlorpromazine is a first-generation antipsychotic medication that has been found to be effective in treating intractable hiccups, particularly when the cause is unknown. It works by affecting dopamine receptors in the central nervous system, which helps to reduce the frequency and intensity of hiccups. Option B) Pimozide is also an antipsychotic medication, but it is not commonly used for treating hiccups. It is more commonly used to treat conditions like Tourette syndrome. Option C) Promethazine is an antihistamine commonly used for allergies, nausea, and motion sickness. While it may have some sedative effects that could potentially help with hiccups, it is not the first-line treatment for this condition. Option D) Tetracycline is an antibiotic medication that would not be appropriate for treating intractable hiccups as it does not target the underlying neurological mechanisms that are often involved in this condition. In an educational context, it is important for healthcare providers to be familiar with the appropriate medications for managing common symptoms like intractable hiccups. Understanding the mechanisms of action of different medications can help providers make informed decisions when selecting the most appropriate treatment for their patients.