when administering phenytoin you should monitor

ATI RN

ATI Proctored Pharmacology Test

1. When administering Phenytoin, what should you monitor?

A. Behavior
B. Therapeutic blood levels
C. For signs of Stevens-Johnson syndrome
D. All of the above

Correct answer: D

Rationale: When administering Phenytoin, monitoring the patient's behavior is important to assess for any changes that may indicate adverse effects. Monitoring therapeutic blood levels helps ensure the medication is within the effective range and not causing toxicity. Additionally, being vigilant for signs of Stevens-Johnson syndrome, a severe skin reaction associated with Phenytoin use, is crucial for early detection and intervention. Therefore, monitoring behavior, therapeutic blood levels, and for signs of Stevens-Johnson syndrome are all essential when administering Phenytoin.

2. To which pharmacologic classification does the drug propranolol belong?

A. Beta Blockers
B. Cholinergics
C. Immune globulins
D. Barbiturates

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Propranolol belongs to the pharmacologic classification of Beta Blockers. Beta blockers work by blocking the action of adrenaline and other stress hormones on beta-adrenergic receptors. They are commonly used to manage conditions like high blood pressure, angina, and arrhythmias. Choice B, Cholinergics, is incorrect because cholinergics work by stimulating the parasympathetic nervous system, unlike beta blockers that block adrenergic receptors. Choice C, Immune globulins, is incorrect as it refers to antibodies used to boost the immune system, not the mechanism of action of propranolol. Choice D, Barbiturates, is incorrect as barbiturates are a different class of drugs that act as central nervous system depressants, primarily used as sedatives and anesthetics.

3. A nurse is teaching a client who has a new prescription for Prednisone. Which of the following instructions should the nurse include?

A. Increase your intake of vitamin
B. Take this medication on an empty stomach.
C. Avoid drinking grapefruit juice.
D. Take this medication every other day.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Prednisone can lead to bone loss, so clients should increase their intake of vitamin D and calcium to help maintain bone health.

4. A client has a new prescription for Etanercept for Rheumatoid Arthritis. Which of the following statements by the client indicates an understanding of the teaching?

A. I will need to get my blood drawn periodically while on this medication.
B. I should stop taking this medication if I develop a rash.
C. I will need to limit my alcohol intake to no more than one drink per week.
D. I should self-administer this medication subcutaneously.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A because Etanercept can cause bone marrow suppression, so it is crucial to monitor blood counts regularly to detect any early signs of adverse effects.

5. A client is prescribed Atorvastatin. Which of the following laboratory values should be monitored to assess for potential adverse effects?

A. Blood glucose
B. Creatine kinase
C. Hemoglobin
D. Sodium

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Creatine kinase should be monitored in clients taking Atorvastatin as it can indicate muscle damage, a serious adverse effect of statins. Elevated creatine kinase levels may suggest myopathy or rhabdomyolysis, which are potential complications of statin therapy.