ATI RN
ATI RN Pharmacology Proctored Exam Questions
Extract:
Question 1 of 5
A nurse inadvertently administers 160 mg of valsartan PO to a client who was scheduled to receive 80 mg. Which of the following actions is the priority for the nurse to take?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Evaluate the client for orthostatic hypotension. In this situation, the nurse administered double the prescribed dose of valsartan, which is an antihypertensive medication. Valsartan can cause a sudden drop in blood pressure, leading to orthostatic hypotension, especially at higher doses.
Therefore, the priority action for the nurse is to assess the client for signs and symptoms of orthostatic hypotension such as dizziness, lightheadedness, or fainting. This immediate evaluation is crucial to ensure the client's safety and well-being.
Other choices are incorrect because:
B: Monitoring urine output is not the priority in this scenario as the issue at hand is related to a potential adverse effect of the medication.
C: Obtaining laboratory results is not the immediate action needed in response to the medication error.
D: Checking for nasal congestion is not relevant to the situation and does not address the potential adverse effects of the
Question 2 of 5
A nurse is reviewing the laboratory data of a client prior to administering IV tobramycin. Which of the following laboratory values should the nurse report to the provider?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D: Creatinine 2.5 mg/dL. Elevated creatinine levels indicate potential kidney dysfunction, which is crucial when administering tobramycin as it is excreted through the kidneys. High levels can lead to toxicity. Sodium, Hct, and Hgb levels are within normal range and not directly relevant to tobramycin administration. Reporting creatinine ensures safe dosing.
Question 3 of 5
A home health nurse is visiting a client who has heart failure and a prescription for furosemide. The nurse identifies that the client has gained 2.5 kg (5 lb.) since the last visit 2 days ago. Which of the following actions should the nurse take first?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D: Notify the provider of the client's weight gain. This is the most appropriate action because sudden weight gain in a client with heart failure could indicate fluid retention, a potential worsening condition requiring immediate medical attention. By notifying the provider, the nurse ensures timely intervention and adjustment of the treatment plan to prevent complications.
A: Encouraging the client to dangle legs does not address the immediate concern of weight gain and potential fluid retention.
B: Teaching about low-sodium foods may be important for long-term management but is not the priority in this acute situation.
C: Determining medication adherence is important but does not address the urgent need for intervention in response to the weight gain.
In summary, notifying the provider is crucial in addressing the potential exacerbation of heart failure, making it the most appropriate action.
Question 4 of 5
A nurse is assessing a client's IV infusion site and notes that the site is cool and edematous. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct action is to apply a warm, moist compress (
Choice
D) because it can help improve circulation to the IV site, reduce edema, and potentially prevent complications like phlebitis. By applying warmth, blood vessels dilate, increasing blood flow and promoting healing. Slowing the IV solution rate (
Choice
A) won't address the underlying issue of decreased circulation. Initiating a new IV distal to the initial site (
Choice
B) may not be necessary if the issue can be resolved with a warm compress. Maintaining the extremity below the level of the heart (
Choice
C) may not improve circulation sufficiently.
Question 5 of 5
A nurse is caring for a 4-year-old child following an orthopedic procedure. When assessing the child for pain, which of the following pain scales should the nurse use?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: FACES pain scale. This is appropriate for children aged 3 and older who can point to the face that best represents their pain level. It is simple, easy to understand, and has been validated for use in pediatric populations. The FACES scale allows children to express their pain visually, making it suitable for young children who may not be able to articulate their pain verbally.
The other choices are not as appropriate for assessing pain in a 4-year-old child.
B: Numeric scale may be challenging for young children to understand and use effectively.
C: CRIES scale is typically used for infants and may not be suitable for a 4-year-old child who can communicate more effectively.
D: Word graphic scales may be too complex for young children to comprehend.
Therefore, the FACES pain scale is the most suitable choice for assessing pain in a 4-year-old child post orthopedic procedure.