ATI LPN
ATI LPN Pharmacology Exam I Questions
Extract:
Question 1 of 5
A nurse is preparing to administer an intramuscular injection for a client of average weight. At what angle would the nurse insert the needle?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: IM injections use a 90-degree angle; this ensures deep muscle penetration for average-weight adults, optimizing drug absorption into vascular tissue. 45 degrees is for subcutaneous injections; it's too shallow for IM, risking fat deposition instead of muscle, reducing efficacy in this context. 15 degrees is far too shallow; it's not a standard angle, likely depositing drug in skin layers, failing to reach muscle for intended absorption. 25 degrees mimics subcutaneous; it doesn't reach muscle depth, compromising IM delivery and therapeutic effect in an average-weight client.
Question 2 of 5
An arthritic patient will be discharged home with a variety of medications. The best way for the home health nurse to assist the patient who lives alone in taking his medications is to:
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Verbal instructions alone risk forgetting; arthritis may impair memory or dexterity, making a physical aid more effective for consistent adherence. Childproof caps hinder access; arthritic hands struggle with them, potentially causing missed doses rather than aiding safe administration. A pill organizer simplifies timing and dosage; it compensates for arthritis-related dexterity issues, ensuring accurate intake for a solo patient. Outdated drugs risk toxicity or inefficacy; keeping them confuses regimens, endangering the patient rather than supporting current treatment needs.
Question 3 of 5
In addition to the dorsogluteal and ventrogluteal muscles, which of these sites can safely be used for intramuscular injections?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Deltoid and vastus lateralis are large muscles with good vascularity; they safely absorb IM injections, minimizing nerve damage or tissue irritation risks. Chest and abdomen lack sufficient muscle mass for IM; these are subcutaneous or IV sites, risking poor absorption or injury if used intramuscularly. Forearm and scapula are too thin or bony; IM injections here risk nerve or bone damage, lacking the muscle bulk needed for safe drug delivery. Lower leg (e.g., calf) has small muscles and major vessels; IM use risks vascular injury or slow absorption, making it an unsafe injection site.
Question 4 of 5
Which nursing action is appropriate when pulling the plunger of the syringe back prior to administering medication and blood is aspirated in the syringe?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Blood aspiration indicates vascular entry; discarding prevents IV administration of a drug meant for another route, avoiding rapid absorption risks or contamination. Giving despite blood risks unintended IV delivery; drugs like IM injections aren't formulated for this, potentially causing toxicity or embolism. Changing the needle doesn't address blood-mixed medication; it remains unsafe for injection, as the dose is compromised and potentially contaminated. Omitting skips treatment unnecessarily; the issue is procedural, not the order, and restarting ensures the patient receives the intended therapy safely.
Question 5 of 5
The patient is admitted to the cardiac unit. Everyone admitted to the cardiac unit will have an EKG done unless otherwise ordered. This is an example of which type of order?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: PRN is as needed; EKGs here are routine, not symptom-driven, making this inapplicable to a standard admission protocol for all patients. One-time is a single event; this order applies to all admissions ongoing, not a one-off, distinguishing it from limited-duration directives. STAT is immediate; routine EKGs aren't urgent, occurring as part of standard care, not requiring the priority of acute intervention orders. Standing orders apply automatically to all qualifying patients; this EKG protocol fits, ensuring consistent cardiac assessment unless overridden.