the nurse is caring for a client in a sickle cell crisis which is the pain regimen of choice to relieve the pain

ATI RN

ATI RN Custom Exams Set 1

1. The nurse is caring for a client in a sickle cell crisis. Which is the pain regimen of choice to relieve the pain?

A. Frequent aspirin (acetylsalicylic acid) and a non-narcotic analgesic
B. Motrin (ibuprofen), an NSAID, PRN
C. Demerol (meperidine), a narcotic analgesic, every four (4) hours
D. Morphine, a narcotic analgesic, every two (2) to three (3) hours PRN

Correct answer: D

Rationale: In a sickle cell crisis, morphine is the preferred analgesic due to its potency and effectiveness in managing severe pain. Choice A is incorrect because aspirin is contraindicated in sickle cell disease due to its potential to cause a further decrease in blood flow. Choice B, Motrin (ibuprofen), is also not the ideal choice as NSAIDs can exacerbate renal complications in sickle cell patients. Choice C, Demerol (meperidine), is not recommended for sickle cell pain management due to its toxic metabolite accumulation which can cause seizures and other complications.

2. When is Aspirin most effective when taken?

A. On an empty stomach with cold water
B. On a full stomach after a meal
C. With a glass of fruit juice
D. First thing in the morning

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Aspirin is best absorbed on an empty stomach to maximize its effectiveness. Taking it with cold water helps to enhance absorption. Choice B is incorrect as taking aspirin on a full stomach may reduce its absorption. Choice C is incorrect as fruit juice can sometimes interact with medications. Choice D is incorrect as taking aspirin first thing in the morning may not optimize its absorption.

3. Which drugs may cause weight gain?

A. Amphetamines
B. Steroids
C. Antibiotics
D. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Steroids are known to cause weight gain as a side effect. Amphetamines, antibiotics, and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs are not typically associated with weight gain. Amphetamines are more likely to cause weight loss due to their stimulant effects, antibiotics are not commonly linked to weight gain, and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs usually do not lead to significant weight changes.

4. Which of the following is a potential side effect associated with the use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs?

A. Stomach irritation and bleeding
B. Stomatitis and esophagitis
C. Impaired folate absorption
D. Increased potassium excretion

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Stomach irritation and bleeding. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can cause stomach irritation and bleeding due to their effects on gastric mucosa. Stomatitis and esophagitis (Choice B) are not typically associated with NSAID use. While NSAIDs may affect renal function, leading to fluid retention and edema, they do not directly cause increased potassium excretion (Choice D). Impaired folate absorption (Choice C) is not a common side effect of NSAIDs.

5. The nurse is caring for a client who goes into ventricular tachycardia. Which intervention should the nurse implement first?

A. Call a code immediately
B. Assess the client for a pulse
C. Begin chest compressions
D. Continue to monitor the client

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is to assess the client for a pulse. In ventricular tachycardia, the priority is to determine if the client has a pulse. If there is no pulse, immediate initiation of CPR with chest compressions is required. Calling a code or continuing to monitor the client can delay life-saving interventions. Therefore, assessing for a pulse is the most crucial step in managing ventricular tachycardia.