ATI RN
Pharmacology ATI Proctored Exam 2023
1. A client has ordered a thrombolytic medication for the treatment of CVA. Which type of stroke should not be treated with a thrombolytic?
- A. Hemorrhagic stroke
- B. Thrombotic stroke
- C. Both types can be treated with a thrombolytic
- D. Neither type can be treated with a thrombolytic
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Thrombolytic medications are used to dissolve blood clots. In the case of a hemorrhagic stroke, where there is bleeding in the brain, the use of thrombolytics can worsen the condition by increasing bleeding. Therefore, hemorrhagic strokes should not be treated with thrombolytic medications.
2. Why has an ACE inhibitor been prescribed following an MI?
- A. “This medication will lower your potassium level.”
- B. “ACE inhibitors have been found to reduce mortality following MI.”
- C. “ACE inhibitors are always prescribed with a beta blocker and calcium channel blocker following an MI.”
- D. “This medication will treat your hypotension.”
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Following a myocardial infarction (MI), ACE inhibitors are commonly prescribed due to their proven benefit in reducing mortality and improving outcomes post-MI. These medications help by decreasing the workload of the heart, preventing remodeling of the heart chambers, and improving survival rates. While ACE inhibitors may have effects on potassium levels, the primary reason for their prescription post-MI is their mortality-reducing properties.
3. Which drug classes are NOT typically used to treat angina?
- A. Calcium channel blockers
- B. Organic nitrates
- C. Alpha blockers
- D. Beta blockers
Correct answer: C
Rationale: Angina is primarily treated with calcium channel blockers, organic nitrates, and beta blockers. Alpha blockers are not commonly used in the treatment of angina. Calcium channel blockers help dilate blood vessels, decreasing the workload on the heart. Organic nitrates relax and widen blood vessels, improving blood flow and reducing the heart's workload. Beta blockers reduce the heart rate and blood pressure, decreasing the heart's demand for oxygen. Alpha blockers are more commonly used to treat conditions like hypertension and benign prostatic hyperplasia.
4. What is the first type of medication prescribed to prevent angina pain for a client?
- A. Beta blockers
- B. Alpha blockers
- C. Calcium channel blockers
- D. Organic nitrates
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Beta blockers are the first-line medication prescribed to prevent angina pain. They work by reducing the heart rate and blood pressure, decreasing the heart's demand for oxygen. This helps in preventing angina attacks by improving blood flow to the heart. Alpha blockers, calcium channel blockers, and organic nitrates are also used in angina treatment but are typically considered after beta blockers.
5. A client presents in the Emergency Department with a suspected MI. Which medication should NOT be given as soon as possible?
- A. Clopidogrel (Plavix)
- B. Morphine
- C. Aspirin (ASA)
- D. Metoprolol (Lopressor)
Correct answer: A
Rationale: In the setting of a suspected myocardial infarction (MI), the priority medications to administer as soon as possible include aspirin (ASA) and possibly morphine to manage pain and anxiety. Clopidogrel (Plavix) is not typically administered immediately in the emergency setting for MI management. Metoprolol (Lopressor) is indicated after aspirin administration and stabilization of the patient. Therefore, in this scenario, clopidogrel should NOT be given as a first-line medication for a suspected MI.
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