ATI RN
ATI Proctored Pharmacology 2023
1. A client with heart failure is prescribed digoxin. Which statement by the client indicates an adverse effect of the medication?
- A. I can walk a mile a day.
- B. I've had a backache for several days.
- C. I am urinating more frequently.
- D. I feel nauseated and have no appetite.
Correct answer: D
Rationale: Nausea and loss of appetite are common early signs of digoxin toxicity, indicating an adverse effect of the medication. These symptoms should be reported to the healthcare provider immediately for further evaluation and management.
2. A client has a new prescription for Valsartan, and a nurse is providing discharge teaching. Which of the following instructions should the nurse include?
- A. Take this medication with food.
- B. Avoid potassium-rich foods.
- C. Expect to feel drowsy.
- D. Monitor your blood pressure daily.
Correct answer: D
Rationale: Monitoring blood pressure daily is crucial for clients taking Valsartan, an angiotensin II receptor blocker, to ensure effective management of hypertension. Valsartan helps lower blood pressure by relaxing blood vessels, and regular monitoring helps track the medication's effectiveness and any potential side effects. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect because Valsartan does not need to be taken with food, avoiding potassium-rich foods is not specifically required for this medication, and feeling drowsy is not a common side effect of Valsartan.
3. When a nurse assesses a client's IV catheter insertion site and notes a hematoma, which of the following actions should the nurse take? (Select all that apply.)
- A. Stop the infusion.
- B. Apply alcohol to the insertion site.
- C. Apply warm compresses to the insertion site.
- D. Elevate the client's arm.
Correct answer: C
Rationale: When a nurse detects a hematoma at the IV catheter insertion site, applying warm compresses is beneficial as it can promote healing by enhancing circulation and reducing swelling. Elevating the client's arm helps in reducing edema, which can relieve pressure, pain, and further bleeding in the hematoma area. Stopping the infusion may be necessary in certain situations, but it is not a standard action for all hematoma cases. Applying alcohol to the insertion site is discouraged as it can cause irritation and may not aid in resolving the hematoma.
4. What does it mean when a medication has a half-life?
- A. It only lasts for 30 minutes after the medication is given
- B. How long it takes for half of the dose to be eliminated from the bloodstream
- C. It is the peak of how effective the medicine is
- D. Drug is greatly reduced before it reaches the systemic circulation
Correct answer: B
Rationale: When a medication has a half-life, it refers to the time it takes for half of the dose to be eliminated from the bloodstream. This parameter is crucial in understanding the duration of action and dosing intervals for medications in clinical practice. Choice A is incorrect as the half-life is not about how long the medication lasts but about elimination from the body. Choice C is incorrect because the half-life is not about the peak effectiveness of the medicine. Choice D is incorrect as it does not accurately define the concept of half-life.
5. A client has a new prescription for Alendronate to treat osteoporosis. Which of the following instructions should the nurse include?
- A. Take the medication with a full glass of water after rising in the morning.
- B. Lie down for at least 30 minutes after taking the medication.
- C. Take the medication before bedtime to reduce the risk of esophageal irritation.
- D. Crush the tablet and mix it with applesauce if having difficulty swallowing.
Correct answer: A
Rationale: The correct instruction is to take Alendronate with a full glass of water after rising in the morning. This helps reduce the risk of esophageal irritation, as the medication can cause irritation if not taken correctly. Taking it before bedtime (choice C) can increase the risk of irritation as the individual lies down. Lying down after taking the medication (choice B) can also lead to esophageal irritation. Crushing the tablet (choice D) is not recommended as Alendronate should be taken whole with a full glass of water.
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