ATI RN
Pathophysiology Practice Exam
1. How will taking an oral contraceptive affect the physiologically of an insulin-dependent diabetic patient?
- A. Increase risk of hypoglycemia
- B. Increase heart rate
- C. Increase blood glucose
- D. Increase risk of metabolic alkalosis
Correct answer: C
Rationale: Taking an oral contraceptive can lead to an increase in blood glucose levels in insulin-dependent diabetic patients. This occurs due to the hormonal changes induced by the contraceptive, which can impact insulin sensitivity. Therefore, diabetic patients need to closely monitor their blood glucose levels when starting an oral contraceptive to prevent complications. The other choices are incorrect as oral contraceptives do not typically lead to an increase in heart rate, risk of hypoglycemia, or risk of metabolic alkalosis in this context.
2. A patient is starting on a statin medication for hyperlipidemia. What critical instruction should the nurse provide?
- A. Take the medication at night to reduce the risk of muscle pain and other side effects.
- B. Take the medication in the morning with breakfast to improve absorption.
- C. Avoid alcohol consumption while taking this medication to reduce the risk of liver damage.
- D. Take the medication with a high-fat meal to increase its effectiveness.
Correct answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A. Statins like atorvastatin should be taken at night to reduce the risk of muscle pain and other side effects. Taking the medication with a high-fat meal (choice D) is not recommended as it can decrease the effectiveness of the medication. Alcohol consumption (choice C) should be moderated but does not need to be completely avoided unless contraindicated. Taking the medication with breakfast (choice B) may not be as effective as taking it at night due to the circadian rhythm of cholesterol synthesis.
3. What is the primary therapeutic action of tamsulosin (Flomax) in a male patient with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH)?
- A. Relaxation of the muscles in the prostate and bladder neck, leading to improved urinary flow.
- B. Reduction in prostate size and improvement in urinary symptoms.
- C. Increase in urine flow and relief of urinary obstruction.
- D. Improvement in erectile function.
Correct answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Relaxation of the muscles in the prostate and bladder neck, leading to improved urinary flow. Tamsulosin, a medication commonly prescribed for BPH, works by selectively blocking alpha-1 adrenergic receptors in the prostate, causing relaxation of smooth muscles in the prostate and bladder neck. This relaxation reduces the constriction in these areas, improving urinary flow and reducing symptoms such as hesitancy, urgency, frequency, and weak stream. Choice B is incorrect because tamsulosin does not directly reduce the size of the prostate. Choice C is incorrect as tamsulosin primarily acts by relaxing muscles rather than directly increasing urine flow. Choice D is incorrect as tamsulosin is not indicated for improving erectile function.
4. A client with chronic bronchitis is receiving education from a healthcare provider about the condition. Which statement made by the client indicates a need for further teaching?
- A. I should avoid being around people who smoke.
- B. I should try to avoid any exposure to pollutants and irritants.
- C. I should limit my fluid intake to avoid worsening my cough.
- D. I should use my inhaler regularly, even when I don't have symptoms.
Correct answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C because limiting fluid intake is not recommended for chronic bronchitis. Hydration is essential as it helps thin mucus, making it easier to clear from the airways. Choices A, B, and D are all correct statements for managing chronic bronchitis. Avoiding exposure to smoke, pollutants, and irritants can help reduce respiratory symptoms and exacerbations. Using the inhaler regularly, even in the absence of symptoms, is crucial for controlling inflammation and maintaining airway function.
5. What causes atherosclerotic plaques to form initially?
- A. Interruption of blood flow to the brain
- B. Injury to the coronary artery endothelium
- C. Administration of statin medications
- D. Poor dietary modifications
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Atherosclerotic plaques form initially due to injury to the coronary artery endothelium, which triggers a cascade of events leading to plaque buildup. Choice A is incorrect because atherosclerotic plaques do not form due to an interruption of blood flow to the brain. Choice C is incorrect as statin medications are actually used to help lower cholesterol and reduce the risk of plaque formation. Choice D is incorrect as poor dietary modifications can contribute to atherosclerosis but are not the initial cause of plaque formation.
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