ATI RN
Pathophysiology Practice Exam
1. 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.
2. A patient is being educated about the use of raloxifene (Evista) for osteoporosis. What is the primary therapeutic action of this medication?
- A. It stimulates the formation of new bone.
- B. It decreases bone resorption and increases bone density.
- C. It increases the excretion of calcium through the kidneys.
- D. It increases calcium absorption in the intestines.
Correct answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: 'It decreases bone resorption and increases bone density.' Raloxifene, a selective estrogen receptor modulator (SERM), works by decreasing bone resorption, which is the breakdown of bone, and increasing bone density. This action helps in preventing bone loss and maintaining bone strength. Choice A is incorrect because raloxifene does not stimulate the formation of new bone but rather prevents its breakdown. Choice C is incorrect as raloxifene does not increase the excretion of calcium but rather helps in maintaining calcium levels in the bones. Choice D is also incorrect as raloxifene does not directly increase calcium absorption in the intestines.
3. The canola plant's genome is altered to produce an herbicide-resistant crop. The canola oil produced from this crop is an example of a:
- A. pesticide-free food.
- B. saturated fat food.
- C. genetically modified food.
- D. product that is pure.
Correct answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: genetically modified food. Canola plants with altered genomes to be herbicide-resistant are an example of genetically modified organisms (GMOs). Genetically modified foods have their genetic material modified for various purposes, such as enhancing resistance to pests, herbicides, or improving nutritional content. Choice A, 'pesticide-free food,' is incorrect because genetic modification does not necessarily make the food pesticide-free. Choice B, 'saturated fat food,' is incorrect as it does not relate to the genetic modification of the canola plant. Choice D, 'product that is pure,' is too vague and does not specifically address the genetic modification aspect of the canola plant.
4. When a client has their 'fight or flight' system activated, which below is a manifestation of that?
- A. Decreased blood pressure
- B. Decreased heart rate
- C. Decreased respiration rate
- D. Increased glucose levels
Correct answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D, 'Increased glucose levels.' When the 'fight or flight' system is activated, the body releases glucose to provide energy for the impending response. This increase in glucose levels helps fuel the body's reaction to the perceived threat or stressor. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect because during the 'fight or flight' response, blood pressure, heart rate, and respiration rate typically increase to prepare the body to confront or flee from the perceived danger.
5. What can multiple dark bands on the nails indicate?
- A. They are considered a normal variant.
- B. They can be associated with malignant melanoma.
- C. They are indicative of a nail fungus.
- D. They are associated with aging.
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Multiple dark bands on the nails can be associated with malignant melanoma, a serious type of skin cancer. While dark bands on the nails can sometimes be a normal variant, they should not be ignored as they could also be a sign of a serious condition like melanoma. Nail fungus typically presents with different symptoms such as thickened, discolored, or brittle nails. Dark bands on the nails are not directly associated with aging.
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