ATI RN
ATI RN Pharmacology Proctored Exam Questions
Extract:
Question 1 of 5
A nurse is reviewing the laboratory values of a client who is taking atorvastatin. Which of the following laboratory values indicates the treatment has been effective?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D: LDL 120 mg/dL. Atorvastatin is a statin medication used to lower LDL cholesterol levels. An LDL value of 120 mg/dL indicates a reduction in LDL levels, demonstrating the effectiveness of the treatment in managing cholesterol. The other options, A, B, and C, do not directly reflect the effectiveness of atorvastatin in lowering cholesterol. BUN measures kidney function, blood glucose levels reflect blood sugar control, and urine specific gravity indicates the concentration of urine. These values are not specific to evaluating the efficacy of atorvastatin in lowering LDL cholesterol levels.
Question 2 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: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: Hyponatremia. When a client taking lithium starts a new exercise program, they are at risk for developing hyponatremia due to increased sweating and sodium loss. Hyponatremia can lead to symptoms such as confusion, muscle weakness, and seizures. Assessing for hyponatremia is crucial to prevent serious complications.
Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because they are not typically associated with lithium use or new exercise programs. Hypocalcemia (
A) is more commonly linked to thyroid or parathyroid issues. Hypokalemia (
B) is usually caused by diuretic use or gastrointestinal losses. Hypomagnesemia (
D) is often related to alcoholism or malnutrition.
Question 3 of 5
A nurse is teaching a client who has angina a new prescription for sublingual nitroglycerin tablets. Which of the following instructions should the nurse include in the teaching?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale:
Correct Answer: C
Rationale:
1. Keeping the tablets at room temperature helps maintain their effectiveness.
2. Nitroglycerin is sensitive to light and moisture, so storing it in the original glass bottle helps protect it.
3. Extreme temperatures can affect the potency of the medication.
4. Discarding unused tablets every 6 months helps ensure efficacy.
5. Taking one tablet each morning is not recommended as nitroglycerin is usually taken as needed for angina attacks.
6. Placing the tablet between cheek and gum is not the correct administration route for sublingual nitroglycerin.
Question 4 of 5
A nurse is preparing to administer subcutaneous heparin to a client. Which of the following should the nurse take?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D because inserting the needle at least 5 cm from the umbilicus helps prevent injury to the underlying structures. It ensures proper administration of the medication into the subcutaneous tissue, reducing the risk of complications. Massaging the site after administering the medication (choice
A) is incorrect as it can cause bruising and discomfort. Using a 21-gauge needle (choice
B) is incorrect because a smaller gauge needle is typically recommended for subcutaneous injections. Aspirating before injecting the medication (choice
C) is unnecessary for subcutaneous injections as there are no major blood vessels in the subcutaneous tissue.
Question 5 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.