a female patient is concerned about the side effects of oral contraceptives what should the nurse explain as a common side effect

ATI RN

Final Exam Pathophysiology

1. A female patient is concerned about the side effects of oral contraceptives. What should the nurse explain as a common side effect?

A. Increased energy levels
B. Decreased libido
C. Weight gain
D. Hair loss

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Weight gain. Weight gain is a common side effect of oral contraceptives due to hormonal changes. It is essential for healthcare providers to inform patients about this possibility to manage expectations. Choice A, increased energy levels, is not a common side effect of oral contraceptives. Choice B, decreased libido, can be a side effect for some individuals but is not as common as weight gain. Choice D, hair loss, is not typically associated with oral contraceptives. Therefore, it is important for the nurse to address the patient's concerns by discussing the more prevalent side effects like weight gain.

2. A patient with a history of cardiovascular disease is prescribed hormone replacement therapy (HRT). What should the nurse emphasize regarding the long-term risks associated with HRT?

A. HRT is associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular events, including heart attack and stroke.
B. HRT may decrease the risk of osteoporosis.
C. HRT may improve mood and energy levels.
D. HRT may increase the risk of breast cancer.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: HRT is associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular events, including heart attack and stroke, particularly in patients with a history of cardiovascular disease.

3. The nurse is caring for a client with an astrocytoma. The client asks, 'What do astrocytes do in the brain?' What is the nurse's best response?

A. Astrocytes help to nourish and support neurons in the brain.
B. Astrocytes are a type of neuron that transmit electrical signals.
C. Astrocytes are involved in immune responses in the brain.
D. Astrocytes help regulate blood flow in the brain.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Astrocytes play a crucial role in supporting and nourishing neurons by providing metabolic support, maintaining the blood-brain barrier, and regulating the chemical environment of the brain. While astrocytes are essential for brain function, they are not neurons and do not transmit electrical signals (Choice B). Astrocytes are not primarily involved in immune responses in the brain (Choice C) or in regulating blood flow in the brain (Choice D), although they indirectly influence blood flow through their support functions.

4. A patient has been diagnosed with a fungal infection and is to be treated with itraconazole (Sporanox). Prior to administration, the nurse notes that the patient is taking carbamazepine (Tegretol) for a seizure disorder. Based on this medication regime, which of the following will be true regarding the medications?

A. The serum level of carbamazepine will be increased.
B. The patient's carbamazepine should be discontinued.
C. The patient's antiseizure medication should be changed.
D. The patient will require a higher dosage of itraconazole (Sporanox).

Correct answer: A

Rationale: When itraconazole is administered with carbamazepine, itraconazole may increase the serum levels of carbamazepine, potentially leading to toxicity. Therefore, choice A is correct. Discontinuing carbamazepine (choice B) or changing the antiseizure medication (choice C) is not necessary unless advised by a healthcare provider. Choice D, requiring a higher dosage of itraconazole, is not accurate in this scenario.

5. What causes atherosclerotic plaques to form initially?

A. Interruption of blood flow to the brain
B. Injury to the coronary artery endothelium
C. Administration of statin medications
D. Poor dietary modifications

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Atherosclerotic plaques form initially due to injury to the coronary artery endothelium, which triggers a cascade of events leading to plaque buildup. Choice A is incorrect because atherosclerotic plaques do not form due to an interruption of blood flow to the brain. Choice C is incorrect as statin medications are actually used to help lower cholesterol and reduce the risk of plaque formation. Choice D is incorrect as poor dietary modifications can contribute to atherosclerosis but are not the initial cause of plaque formation.