a nurse is providing teaching to a client who is starting a new prescription for prednisone which of the following instructions should the nurse inclu

ATI RN

ATI Pharmacology Test Bank

1. When starting a new prescription for prednisone, which instruction should the nurse include for the client?

A. Increase your intake of potassium-rich foods.
B. Do not stop taking this medication abruptly.
C. Avoid grapefruit juice while taking this medication.
D. Take the medication at bedtime to prevent drowsiness.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct instruction for a client starting a new prescription for prednisone is not to stop taking the medication abruptly. Abrupt discontinuation of prednisone can lead to adrenal insufficiency, emphasizing the importance of gradual tapering under healthcare provider guidance. Increasing potassium-rich foods may be necessary based on individual needs, but it is not the priority instruction in this context. Grapefruit juice interaction is more commonly associated with certain medications but not specifically with prednisone. Taking prednisone at bedtime to prevent drowsiness is not a key instruction related to its administration.

2. When administering a Serotonin Antagonist, what is important to monitor for?

A. Intake and output
B. Mental status changes
C. Respiratory rate
D. Anorexia

Correct answer: B

Rationale: When administering a Serotonin Antagonist, monitoring mental status changes is crucial. Serotonin Antagonists can affect neurological function, potentially leading to alterations in mental status. It is essential to assess for any changes in behavior, mood, or cognition to ensure patient safety and prompt intervention if needed.

3. What classification of drug is Penicillin?

A. Antiarrhythmic
B. Anticonvulsant
C. Antibacterial
D. Mood stabilizer

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Penicillin is classified as an antibacterial drug, specifically used to treat bacterial infections. It works by inhibiting the growth of bacteria, making it an effective treatment for various bacterial infections. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect as Penicillin does not belong to these drug classifications. Penicillin does not have any direct effect on heart rhythm (antiarrhythmic), does not treat seizures (anticonvulsant), and is not used to stabilize mood (mood stabilizer).

4. A client has a new prescription for Warfarin for atrial fibrillation. Which of the following findings should the nurse report to the provider immediately?

A. INR of 4.0
B. Potassium level of 4.5 mEq/L
C. Sodium level of 140 mEq/L
D. Creatinine level of 1.0 mg/dL

Correct answer: A

Rationale: An INR of 4.0 is above the therapeutic range for a client on Warfarin, indicating an increased risk of bleeding. This finding requires immediate reporting to the provider for appropriate intervention to prevent complications associated with excessive anticoagulation. Potassium, sodium, and creatinine levels are within normal ranges and are not directly related to the risk of bleeding in a client on Warfarin therapy.

5. What are the Therapeutic Effects of Lithium?

A. Prevents or decreases the incidence of acute manic episodes
B. Maintenance of blood glucose
C. Control of hyperglycemia in diabetic patients
D. Diminished seizure activity

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The therapeutic effect of lithium is that it prevents or decreases the incidence of acute manic episodes in patients with bipolar disorder. Lithium is commonly used as a mood stabilizer in the treatment of bipolar disorder due to its ability to reduce the frequency and severity of manic episodes. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect as lithium is not used for the maintenance of blood glucose, control of hyperglycemia in diabetic patients, or to diminish seizure activity. These effects are not associated with the use of lithium as a medication.