a client taking nitroglycerin nitrostat complains of a headache which conclusion is most appropriate by the nurse

ATI RN

Pharmacology ATI Proctored Exam 2023

1. A client taking nitroglycerin (Nitrostat) complains of a headache. Which conclusion is most appropriate by the nurse?

A. A headache indicates a serious allergic reaction to nitroglycerin.
B. The client will not have a headache if the nitroglycerin is taken with a high-fat meal.
C. Nitroglycerin does not cause a headache.
D. The most common side effect of nitroglycerin is a headache.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Nitroglycerin is known to cause headaches as a common side effect due to its vasodilatory properties. It dilates blood vessels, which can lead to headaches. While a headache can indicate other serious conditions, the most common association with nitroglycerin use is a headache. It is crucial for the nurse to recognize this side effect and provide appropriate education and support to the client.

2. What is a serious adverse reaction to penicillin?

A. Liver Failure
B. Anaphylaxis
C. Respiratory Depression
D. Edema

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Anaphylaxis. Anaphylaxis is a severe allergic reaction that can occur as a serious adverse reaction to penicillin. It is a life-threatening condition that requires immediate medical attention. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect. Liver failure is not a typical adverse reaction to penicillin, respiratory depression is more commonly associated with opioid medications, and edema is not a common severe adverse reaction to penicillin.

3. What is a desired outcome of the drug Phenytoin?

A. Decrease symptoms of PTSD
B. Resolution of signs of infection
C. Decrease or cessation of seizures without excessive sedation
D. Prevention or relief of bronchospasm

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Decrease or cessation of seizures without excessive sedation. Phenytoin is primarily used as an antiepileptic medication to manage and prevent seizures. It does not directly impact symptoms of PTSD (Choice A), resolution of signs of infection (Choice B), or prevention or relief of bronchospasm (Choice D). Therefore, the desired outcome of Phenytoin is to control seizures effectively while avoiding excessive sedation.

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. In reviewing a client's health record, which condition would be a contraindication for using Propranolol to treat hypertension?

A. Asthma
B. Glaucoma
C. Hypertension
D. Tachycardia

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Propranolol is a nonselective beta-adrenergic blocker that blocks both beta1 and beta2 receptors. Blocking beta2 receptors in the lungs can lead to bronchoconstriction, making it unsuitable for clients with asthma. Therefore, asthma is a contraindication for taking Propranolol. Glaucoma, hypertension, and tachycardia are not contraindications for using Propranolol to treat hypertension.