ATI RN
Pathophysiology Final Exam
1. An oncology nurse is providing care for an adult patient who is currently immunocompromised. The nurse is aware of the physiology involved in hematopoiesis and immune function, including the salient role of cytokines. What is the primary role of cytokines in maintaining homeostasis?
- A. Cytokines perform phagocytosis in response to bacterial and protozoal infections.
- B. Cytokines perform a regulatory role in the development of diverse blood cells.
- C. Cytokines play a significant role in the formation of all blood cells.
- D. Cytokines are produced in response to the presence of antibodies.
Correct answer: B
Rationale: The primary role of cytokines in maintaining homeostasis is to perform a regulatory function in the development of diverse blood cells. Cytokines act as signaling molecules that regulate the immune response and hematopoiesis. Choice A is incorrect because cytokines do not perform phagocytosis; they regulate immune responses. Choice C is incorrect because while cytokines are involved in the formation of some blood cells, they are not considered the basic 'building blocks' of all blood cells. Choice D is incorrect because cytokines are not formed in response to antibodies, but rather play a role in the immune response to various stimuli.
2. When reviewing the purpose/action of neurotransmitters as they interact with different receptors, the nursing instructor gives an example using acetylcholine. When acetylcholine is released at the sinoatrial node in the right atrium of the heart, it is:
- A. positively charged.
- B. inhibitory.
- C. overstimulated.
- D. dormant.
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Acetylcholine acts as an inhibitory neurotransmitter at the sinoatrial node. It slows down the heart rate by decreasing the firing rate of the sinoatrial node, which serves as the heart's natural pacemaker. Neurotransmitters do not have a charge, so choice A is incorrect. Choice C is wrong as overstimulation is not a characteristic of acetylcholine at the sinoatrial node. Choice D is also incorrect because acetylcholine actively influences heart rate regulation when released at the sinoatrial node.
3. 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.
4. What causes hepatic encephalopathy?
- A. A brain infection
- B. Increased ammonia levels in the bloodstream
- C. Decreased albumin blood levels
- D. Untreated chronic bronchitis
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Hepatic encephalopathy is caused by increased ammonia levels in the bloodstream. Ammonia, a byproduct of protein metabolism normally processed by the liver, accumulates in the bloodstream when the liver is unable to function properly. This excess ammonia affects brain function, leading to symptoms of hepatic encephalopathy. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because they do not directly relate to the pathophysiology of hepatic encephalopathy.
5. Which of the following factors are known to contribute to an individual's ability to adapt to stress? (Select ONE that does not apply.)
- A. Ethnicity
- B. Age
- C. Socioeconomic status
- D. Gender
Correct answer: A
Rationale: The correct factors that contribute to an individual's ability to adapt to stress are age, socioeconomic status, and gender. Age can influence coping mechanisms and resilience. Socioeconomic status can impact access to resources and support systems. Gender differences can also play a role in how individuals experience and manage stress. Ethnicity, while important in other contexts, is not directly mentioned in the provided rationale and is not one of the factors listed as contributing to an individual's ability to adapt to stress.
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