ATI LPN
ATI LPN Pharmacology Exam I Questions
Extract:
Question 1 of 5
Why does the nurse administer lorazepam intramuscularly (IM) to the patient rather than into the subcutaneous tissue?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Body fat levels influence subcutaneous absorption but are not the primary reason for choosing IM over SC injection in this scenario. Needle size varies by medication and patient factors, but this is not the defining reason for selecting IM over SC injection. IM injections deliver medication directly to muscle tissue with a rich vascular supply, ensuring faster absorption and onset compared to subcutaneous administration. IM injections are not inherently safer for patients at risk of bleeding; they carry similar risks and require proper assessment before administration.
Question 2 of 5
Using the label, what is the strength of the medication? (No label; assuming Zestril from prior context.)
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Zestril at 5 mg per tablet is common; strength is the dose per unit, and this matches typical labeling for hypertension management effectively. 10 mg is a Zestril strength but not assumed here; without label confirmation, 5 mg is the base unit from prior context, not this option. 15 mg isn't standard for Zestril tablets; it's a total dose possibility, not a per-tablet strength, mismatching typical medication packaging norms. 20 mg exists for Zestril but isn't the default; 5 mg aligns with the supplied strength in earlier questions, making it the likely label.
Question 3 of 5
The nurse explains that a drug may have several names. The trade name is the only name that can be:
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Retailers use trade or generic names; trade isn't exclusive here, as generics are sold too, making this a shared rather than unique trait. Chemical names define molecular structure (e.g., acetaminophen); trade names (e.g., Tylenol) are brand-specific, not tied to chemistry recognition. Orders use trade or generic names (e.g., Zestril or lisinopril); trade isn't the only option, as generics are equally valid in prescriptions. Trade names are trademarked (e.g., Viagra); this legal protection distinguishes them from generic or chemical names, ensuring brand exclusivity.
Question 4 of 5
A patient has an order for a subcutaneous injection of insulin. The nurse will prepare to give this injection into which of the following tissues?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Vastus lateralis is muscle; insulin given intramuscularly absorbs too fast, risking hypoglycemia, unlike the slower, safer subcutaneous route intended. Deltoid is also muscle; subcutaneous insulin isn't given here as it's not fatty enough, leading to unpredictable absorption rates versus abdominal tissue. Intravenous line is for IV drugs; insulin via IV is rare and only in emergencies, not standard subcutaneous orders, risking rapid overdose effects. Abdominal fat is ideal for subcutaneous insulin; it ensures steady absorption into capillaries, maintaining glycemic control per pharmacokinetic principles.
Question 5 of 5
Which is the priority action of the nurse immediately after administration of an intramuscular injection?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Informing the patient is secondary; it addresses communication but not immediate safety risks like needlestick injury, which is a higher priority post-injection per occupational health standards. Assessing comfort is important but not urgent; pain evaluation can wait after securing the needle, as safety from sharps exposure outweighs immediate patient feedback in priority. Engaging the safety sheath prevents needlestick injuries; it's the priority action to protect the nurse and others from bloodborne pathogens, aligning with universal precautions post-injection. Checking for bleeding is routine but not critical; minor oozing is common and manageable later, while needle safety is an immediate concern to prevent infection risks.