ATI RN
ATI Proctored Pharmacology Test
1. A client has a new prescription for Furosemide to treat heart failure. Which of the following laboratory results should the nurse monitor?
- A. Potassium level
- B. Sodium level
- C. Hemoglobin A1C
- D. BUN
Correct answer: A
Rationale: The nurse should monitor the client's potassium levels when taking Furosemide because the medication can lead to hypokalemia. Hypokalemia is a potential side effect of Furosemide, a loop diuretic, due to increased potassium excretion in the urine. Monitoring potassium levels is crucial to prevent complications such as cardiac dysrhythmias associated with low potassium levels. Therefore, choices B (Sodium level), C (Hemoglobin A1C), and D (BUN) are incorrect as they are not directly influenced by Furosemide therapy for heart failure.
2. A client has a new prescription for nitroglycerin. Which of the following adverse effects should the nurse instruct the client to report that can indicate the medication is effective?
- A. Headache
- B. Nausea
- C. Dizziness
- D. Dry mouth
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Headache is a common side effect of nitroglycerin due to its vasodilatory effects. It can indicate that the medication is working effectively by dilating blood vessels, improving blood flow, and reducing cardiac workload. Therefore, the client should report experiencing headaches as it may suggest the therapeutic action of nitroglycerin. Nausea, dizziness, and dry mouth are not typically associated with the therapeutic effects of nitroglycerin and should be reported as adverse effects that may necessitate medical attention.
3. A client has a new prescription for Digoxin. Which of the following instructions should the nurse provide?
- A. Monitor your heart rate before taking the medication.
- B. Increase your intake of high-potassium foods.
- C. Take the medication with a full glass of milk.
- D. Expect your stools to be black and tarry.
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Clients prescribed Digoxin should monitor their heart rate before each dose. This is essential to identify any potential bradycardia, defined as a heart rate below 60 bpm, which can be a side effect of Digoxin. Any significant changes in heart rate should be reported promptly to the healthcare provider for further evaluation and management. Choice B is incorrect because increasing intake of high-potassium foods can lead to hyperkalemia, a condition that can be exacerbated by Digoxin. Choice C is incorrect as taking Digoxin with a full glass of milk is not necessary. Choice D is incorrect as black, tarry stools are not an expected side effect of Digoxin.
4. While caring for a client receiving IV heparin, which of the following findings should the nurse identify as an adverse effect of this medication?
- A. Hypertension
- B. Hyperglycemia
- C. Thrombocytopenia
- D. Leukopenia
Correct answer: C
Rationale: Thrombocytopenia, a decrease in platelet count, is a known adverse effect associated with heparin therapy. It can lead to an increased risk of bleeding and should be closely monitored during treatment. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect. Hypertension is not typically associated with heparin use; hyperglycemia is not a common adverse effect of heparin; leukopenia is not a primary side effect of heparin therapy.
5. What symptom would alert the healthcare professional to hold Albuterol and notify a healthcare professional immediately?
- A. Insomnia
- B. Paradoxical bronchospasm
- C. Nausea
- D. Headache
Correct answer: B
Rationale: If a patient experiences paradoxical bronchospasm after taking Albuterol, the medication should be withheld, and a healthcare professional should be notified immediately. Paradoxical bronchospasm is a serious adverse reaction where the airways constrict instead of dilating, leading to breathing difficulties. This condition requires prompt medical attention to assess and manage the patient's respiratory status. The other options, insomnia, nausea, and headache, are not typically associated with the need to hold Albuterol and notify a healthcare professional immediately.
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