ATI RN
Final Exam Pathophysiology
1. A nurse is conducting an assessment on a client who presents with symptoms that are characteristic of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). What assessment finding would be expected in this client?
- A. Reduced reflexes in all four limbs
- B. Decreased cognitive function
- C. Involuntary muscle contractions
- D. Hyperreflexia
Correct answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D: Hyperreflexia. In amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), hyperreflexia is a common assessment finding due to the degeneration of upper motor neurons. This results in an overactive reflex response to stimuli. Reduced reflexes in all four limbs (choice A) are not typically seen in ALS; instead, hyperreflexia is more common. Decreased cognitive function (choice B) is not a primary characteristic of ALS. Involuntary muscle contractions (choice C) are more indicative of conditions such as dystonia or myoclonus, not ALS.
2. What important point should the nurse emphasize about taking oral contraceptives consistently?
- A. Oral contraceptives must be taken at the same time each day to maintain consistent hormone levels and ensure effectiveness in preventing pregnancy.
- B. Oral contraceptives should be taken in the morning to avoid side effects at night.
- C. Oral contraceptives should be taken with food to enhance absorption.
- D. Oral contraceptives can be skipped occasionally without significant consequences.
Correct answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A. It is crucial for patients taking oral contraceptives to take them at the same time each day to maintain consistent hormone levels, which is essential for their effectiveness in preventing pregnancy. Choice B is incorrect as the timing of the medication is more about consistency than avoiding side effects at night. Choice C is incorrect as oral contraceptives do not necessarily need to be taken with food for absorption. Choice D is incorrect because skipping oral contraceptives occasionally can significantly reduce their effectiveness in preventing pregnancy.
3. A patient is prescribed medroxyprogesterone acetate (Provera) for the treatment of endometriosis. What key instruction should the nurse provide regarding the administration of this medication?
- A. Take the medication at the same time each day to maintain consistent hormone levels.
- B. Discontinue the medication if side effects occur.
- C. Take the medication with food to prevent gastrointestinal upset.
- D. Apply the medication once a week.
Correct answer: A
Rationale: The correct instruction for medroxyprogesterone acetate (Provera) is to take the medication at the same time each day to maintain consistent hormone levels and ensure its effectiveness. Choice B is incorrect because discontinuing the medication abruptly without consulting healthcare providers can be harmful. Choice C is incorrect as taking the medication with food is not necessary for this specific drug. Choice D is incorrect as medroxyprogesterone is typically taken orally, not applied topically.
4. Hematopoiesis occurs primarily in the bone marrow. What cells are formed during this process?
- A. Pancreatic beta cells
- B. Red blood cells
- C. Gastric parietal cells
- D. Neurons and glial cells
Correct answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Red blood cells. Hematopoiesis is the process of blood cell formation that primarily occurs in the bone marrow. Red blood cells are one of the main cell types formed during this process. Pancreatic beta cells (Choice A), gastric parietal cells (Choice C), and neurons and glial cells (Choice D) are not formed during hematopoiesis. Pancreatic beta cells are involved in insulin production, gastric parietal cells secrete gastric acid, and neurons and glial cells are part of the nervous system.
5. Which of the following is found in clients with Parkinson’s disease?
- A. Mobility and functioning
- B. The liver and kidneys
- C. Too much dopamine in the brain
- D. Skeletal muscle flaccidity
Correct answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: Too much dopamine in the brain. Parkinson's disease is characterized by a deficiency of dopamine in the brain, not an excess. This deficiency leads to the motor symptoms associated with the disease. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect. Mobility and functioning are affected in Parkinson's disease due to the lack of dopamine, not an excess. The liver and kidneys are not directly related to Parkinson's disease. Skeletal muscle flaccidity is not typically a primary symptom of Parkinson's disease, which is more characterized by rigidity and tremors.
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