ATI RN
ATI RN Pharmacology 2023 IV Questions
Extract:
Question 1 of 5
A nurse is caring for a client who has a history of cardiac arrhythmias and is taking verapamil. For which of the following reasons should the nurse consult the pharmacist?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A. Consulting the pharmacist to assess the compatibility of verapamil with newly ordered medications is crucial because verapamil is known to have significant drug interactions, especially with other medications that affect heart rhythms. Verapamil is a calcium channel blocker that can potentiate the effects of other antiarrhythmic drugs, leading to serious cardiac complications. By consulting the pharmacist, the nurse can prevent potential drug interactions and ensure the client's safety.
Option B is incorrect because reporting the client's refusal to take verapamil does not require pharmacist consultation but rather involves addressing the client's compliance issues directly. Option C is incorrect because requesting a change in the dosage of verapamil should be discussed with the prescriber, not the pharmacist. Option D is incorrect because verifying the frequency of administration of verapamil can be done by referring to the medication order without pharmacist consultation.
Question 2 of 5
A nurse is caring for a client who is receiving ceftriaxone intravenously. Which of the following manifestations should the nurse identify as an allergic reaction?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Hypotension. Allergic reactions to ceftriaxone can lead to a sudden drop in blood pressure, causing hypotension. This is due to the release of histamines in response to the medication, leading to vasodilation and loss of vascular tone. Polyuria, nausea, and bradycardia are not typical manifestations of an allergic reaction to ceftriaxone. Polyuria may indicate a kidney issue, nausea could be a common side effect, and bradycardia is usually not associated with allergic reactions. It is important for the nurse to recognize hypotension as a potential allergic reaction to promptly intervene and prevent further complications.
Question 3 of 5
A nurse is caring for a client who is taking lithium and reports starting a new exercise program. The nurse should assess the client for which of the following electrolyte imbalances?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Hyponatremia. When a client taking lithium starts a new exercise program, they may sweat more, leading to sodium loss. This can result in hyponatremia, which is a common electrolyte imbalance associated with lithium therapy. Symptoms of hyponatremia include confusion, headache, muscle weakness, and nausea.
A: Hypokalemia is not typically associated with lithium therapy or exercise programs.
C: Hypocalcemia is not a common electrolyte imbalance seen with lithium therapy or exercise.
D: Hypomagnesemia is also not a common electrolyte imbalance related to lithium or exercise.
Therefore, choice B is the most appropriate electrolyte imbalance to assess in this scenario.
Question 4 of 5
A nurse in an emergency department is assessing a client who received epinephrine. Which of the following findings should the nurse report as an adverse effect of epinephrine?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Chest pain. Epinephrine is a sympathomimetic medication that can cause vasoconstriction leading to increased cardiac workload, potentially resulting in chest pain. Bradycardia (
B) is unlikely as epinephrine typically increases heart rate. Hypoglycemia (
C) is a potential adverse effect but not specific to epinephrine. Respiratory depression (
D) is not a common side effect of epinephrine.
Question 5 of 5
A nurse in the emergency department is caring for a client who reports a severe headache. The client's blood pressure is 280/160 mm Hg. The nurse should plan to administer which of the following medications?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D: Nitroprusside. This medication is a potent vasodilator that rapidly lowers blood pressure, making it the most appropriate choice for a client with severe hypertension presenting with a hypertensive emergency. Nitroprusside acts quickly to reduce both systolic and diastolic blood pressure, helping to prevent organ damage.
A: Dexamethasone is a corticosteroid used for inflammatory conditions, not for immediate blood pressure control.
B: Epinephrine is a sympathomimetic drug that can increase blood pressure, which is contraindicated in this scenario.
C: Dobutamine is a beta-1 adrenergic agonist that increases heart rate and contractility, which can worsen hypertension.
Overall, Nitroprusside is the most appropriate choice due to its rapid and effective blood pressure-lowering properties in a hypertensive emergency.