a badly burned firefighter has been in an induced coma for 3 weeks when he awakens he thanks his son for singing happy birthday to him a week earlier
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Nursing Elites

ATI RN

Pathophysiology Practice Exam

1. While in an induced coma for 3 weeks, a badly burned firefighter awakens and thanks his son for singing Happy Birthday to him a week earlier. Which part of the brain is responsible for allowing him to hear and comprehend while comatose?

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The temporal lobe is responsible for processing auditory information, allowing the patient to hear and comprehend while in a coma. The cerebellum is primarily associated with coordination and balance, not auditory processing. The thalamus serves as a relay station for sensory information but is not specifically responsible for auditory processing. The occipital lobe is mainly involved in processing visual information, not auditory functions.

2. What is a characteristic of coronary artery disease (CAD)?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct characteristic of coronary artery disease (CAD) is the insufficient delivery of oxygenated blood to the myocardium. CAD is a condition where the coronary arteries become narrowed or blocked, leading to reduced blood flow to the heart muscle. This lack of oxygenated blood can result in chest pain, known as angina, and if a coronary artery becomes completely blocked, it can cause a heart attack. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect. Choice A refers to an issue related to the lymphatic system, choice C is about gas exchange in the lungs, and choice D describes a problem with bile accumulation in the digestive system, none of which are characteristics of CAD.

3. What laboratory tests should the nurse monitor regularly when a male patient is receiving androgen therapy?

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is to monitor liver function tests regularly when a male patient is receiving androgen therapy. Androgen therapy can impact liver function, making it crucial to monitor liver function tests to assess any potential adverse effects on the liver. Renal function tests (choice B) are not typically affected by androgen therapy and do not need specific monitoring for this treatment. Blood glucose levels (choice C) are more relevant in conditions like diabetes or with medications affecting blood sugar, not typically in androgen therapy. Complete blood count (CBC) (choice D) is not directly impacted by androgen therapy and is not a priority for monitoring in this context.

4. A patient is administered a nucleotide reverse transcriptase inhibitor in combination with a nonnucleotide reverse transcriptase inhibitor. What is the main rationale for administering these medications together?

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The main rationale for administering a nucleotide reverse transcriptase inhibitor in combination with a nonnucleotide reverse transcriptase inhibitor is that they exhibit synergistic antiviral effects when used together. This combination enhances their antiviral activity against HIV by targeting different steps in the viral replication cycle. Choice A is incorrect because the rationale for combining these medications is based on their antiviral effects, not treatment adherence. Choice B is incorrect because the primary purpose of combination therapy is not to reduce the duration of illness but to improve treatment efficacy. Choice D is incorrect as the main focus of this combination is not on preventing opportunistic infections but on directly targeting the HIV virus.

5. Which of the following hormones helps to raise the blood sugar level to help maintain homeostasis?

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C, Glucagon. Glucagon helps raise blood sugar levels by stimulating the liver to release stored glucose into the bloodstream, thus aiding in maintaining homeostasis. Antidiuretic hormone (ADH), choice A, functions in regulating water balance in the body, not blood sugar levels. Insulin, choice B, lowers blood sugar levels by facilitating glucose uptake by cells. Thyroxine, choice D, is a hormone produced by the thyroid gland that regulates metabolism and has no direct effect on blood sugar levels.

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