ATI LPN
LPN Pharmacology Texas University Questions
Extract:
Question 1 of 5
The nurse is assessing therapeutic blood levels for a client receiving lithium (Lithobid). The nurse should recognize which of the following levels as toxic for this drug?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: 1.5 mEq/L to 2 mEq/L. Therapeutic blood levels for lithium are typically between 0.6 mEq/L to 1.2 mEq/L, with toxic levels starting around 1.5 mEq/L. Levels above 2 mEq/L can lead to severe toxicity, including symptoms such as confusion, seizures, and even coma.
Choices A, B, and D are within the therapeutic range, while choice C is within the toxic range. It is essential for the nurse to monitor lithium levels closely to prevent toxicity and ensure the client's safety.
Question 2 of 5
The nurse is preparing to administer the client's daily digoxin with furosemide. The nurse should closely monitor laboratory values for which of the following?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Hypokalemia. Digoxin and furosemide can both cause potassium loss leading to hypokalemia. Hypokalemia can potentiate the risk of digoxin toxicity, increasing the risk of serious cardiac arrhythmias. Monitoring potassium levels is crucial to prevent adverse effects. Hypercalcemia (
A), hypocalcemia (
C), and hyponatremia (
D) are not directly associated with the combination of digoxin and furosemide.
Question 3 of 5
The nurse understands which of the following clients with depression are appropriate for phenelzine [Nardil]?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Clients who have not responded to SSRIs and TCAs. Phenelzine is a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) used for treatment-resistant depression. Clients who have not responded to selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs) may benefit from phenelzine due to its mechanism of action. MAOIs can be effective when other antidepressants have failed.
Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because using phenelzine in clients with new onset signs of schizophrenia, in combination with an SSRI for increased symptoms, and in postpartum depression/lactating clients respectively, are not supported by evidence-based practice.
Question 4 of 5
The nurse is performing teaching with a client being discharged with a prescription for dabigatran. Which of the following is a priority in client education?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: Do not discontinue medication abruptly. This is a priority in client education because dabigatran is an anticoagulant medication, and sudden discontinuation can increase the risk of blood clots and stroke. It is essential for the client to understand the importance of consistent use and to consult their healthcare provider before making any changes to their medication regimen.
Choice A is incorrect because while dabigatran is not reversible in emergency situations like warfarin, it does not take precedence over the importance of not abruptly stopping the medication.
Choice B is incorrect because blood in urine and stool is not normal with dabigatran and should be reported to the healthcare provider immediately.
Choice D is incorrect because dabigatran has fewer food interactions compared to other anticoagulants like warfarin, making it less of a priority in client education.
Question 5 of 5
The nurse is caring for a client diagnosed with hypertension and taking losartan. The nurse should monitor the client for which of the following common side effects of this medication?
Correct Answer: B,D
Rationale: The correct answers are B (Dizziness) and D (Hypotension). Losartan is an angiotensin receptor blocker used to treat hypertension by relaxing blood vessels. Dizziness and hypotension are common side effects due to vasodilation, which can lower blood pressure too much. Monitoring for these side effects is crucial to prevent falls or other complications.
Choices A (Hypertension) and E (Tachycardia) are incorrect because losartan aims to lower blood pressure, not increase it.
Choice C (Hyperglycemia) is incorrect as losartan is not known to significantly affect blood sugar levels.