ATI RN
Psychotropic Medication Questions
Question 1 of 5
Which of these tests would the nurse use to check the motor coordination of an 11-month-old infant?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The nurse would use the Denver II test to check the motor coordination of an 11-month-old infant. This test assesses developmental milestones, including motor skills appropriate for the child's age. The Denver II test specifically evaluates gross and fine motor skills, which are crucial components of motor coordination in infants. The other choices are not appropriate for assessing motor coordination in infants. Stereognosis tests the ability to recognize objects by touch, deep tendon reflexes assess the integrity of the neuromuscular system, and rapid alternating movements evaluate cerebellar function, none of which directly measure motor coordination in infants.
Question 2 of 5
During an examination, the nurse notices severe nystagmus in both eyes of a patient.. Which conclusion by the nurse is correct? Severe nystagmus in both eyes:
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Severe nystagmus in both eyes may indicate disease of the cerebellum or brainstem. Nystagmus is an involuntary eye movement that can be a sign of neurological issues. The cerebellum and brainstem are responsible for coordinating eye movements, so abnormalities in these areas can lead to nystagmus. Other choices are incorrect because severe nystagmus is not a normal occurrence, not solely caused by nervousness, and does not indicate a visual problem requiring an ophthalmologist.
Question 3 of 5
The nurse is performing a neurological assessment on a 40-year-old male patient who was recently diagnosed with multiple sclerosis (MS). Which of the following symptoms would be expected for a patient with MS?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Loss of coordination and balance. In multiple sclerosis (MS), demyelination of nerve fibers impairs communication between the brain and the body, leading to symptoms such as loss of coordination and balance. This is due to disrupted signals affecting motor control. Unilateral weakness or paralysis (A) is more characteristic of a stroke or nerve injury, not MS. Memory loss and dementia (C) are not typical symptoms of MS, as it primarily affects the central nervous system. Sensation of pins and needles in both legs (D) is more commonly associated with peripheral nerve issues like peripheral neuropathy, not MS.
Question 4 of 5
On the basis of current knowledge of neurotransmitter effects, a nurse anticipates that the treatment plan for a patient with memory difficulties may include medications designed to:
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D: prevent destruction of acetylcholine. Acetylcholine is a neurotransmitter essential for memory and learning. Medications that prevent its destruction can help improve memory function. Inhibiting GABA production (choice A) would not be beneficial for memory as GABA is an inhibitory neurotransmitter. Increasing dopamine sensitivity (choice B) is more related to motivation and reward processing rather than memory. Decreasing dopamine at receptor sites (choice C) may lead to movement disorders but is not directly related to memory function. Thus, choice D is the most appropriate option for addressing memory difficulties.
Question 5 of 5
A patient hospitalized with a mood disorder has aggression, agitation, talkativeness, and irritability. A nurse begins the care plan based on the expectation that the health care provider is most likely to prescribe a medication classified as a(n):
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: mood stabilizer. This patient is exhibiting symptoms of mania, a hallmark of bipolar disorder. Mood stabilizers, like lithium or anticonvulsants, are the first-line treatment for managing manic episodes. Anticholinergics (A) are used for symptoms like tremors or EPS. Psychostimulants (C) can exacerbate mania. Antidepressants (D) can trigger manic episodes in bipolar patients. Thus, a mood stabilizer is the most appropriate choice for this patient.