a female patient is taking combined hormonal contraceptives to prevent pregnancy she visits the gynecology clinic and is noted to have a blood pressur

ATI RN

ATI Pathophysiology Test Bank

1. A female patient is taking combined hormonal contraceptives to prevent pregnancy. She visits the gynecology clinic and is noted to have a blood pressure of 176/102 mm Hg. The patient is started on enalapril mesylate 10 mg. In collaboration with the primary care provider, what other patient teaching should be provided based on her current medication regimen?

A. Instruct on a low-salt diet.
B. Instruct to discontinue the contraceptives.
C. Instruct on the use of relaxation techniques to decrease stress.
D. Instruct on the rationale for increasing the contraceptive dose.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Women on hormonal contraceptives and antihypertensives like enalapril should be counseled to adopt a low-salt diet if severe hypertension occurs. This dietary modification can help in managing blood pressure levels. Instructing to discontinue the contraceptives is crucial in cases of severe hypertension as it poses an increased risk of cardiovascular events. Instructing on relaxation techniques may have some benefits in reducing stress levels but addressing the root cause, such as discontinuing contraceptives in this scenario, is more critical. There is no rationale for increasing the contraceptive dose when hypertension is present; in fact, it should be stopped to prevent complications.

2. What is a common cause of a pulmonary embolism?

A. An autoimmune disorder
B. A venous blood clot from the lower extremity
C. An increase in intracranial pressure
D. Hypotension

Correct answer: B

Rationale: A pulmonary embolism is commonly caused by a blood clot that originates in the venous system of the lower extremity and travels to the lungs, blocking blood flow. This clot is known as a venous thromboembolism. An autoimmune disorder (Choice A) is not typically associated with pulmonary embolism. Intracranial pressure (Choice C) refers to pressure inside the skull and is unrelated to pulmonary embolism. Hypotension (Choice D) is low blood pressure and is not a common cause of pulmonary embolism.

3. A patient is taking a statin for hyperlipidemia. What important instruction should the nurse provide to the patient?

A. Take the medication at night to avoid muscle pain.
B. Take the medication in the morning to ensure it works throughout the day.
C. Avoid consuming alcohol while taking this medication.
D. Take the medication with a high-fat meal to increase absorption.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is to instruct the patient to take the medication at night to avoid muscle pain. Statins are known to potentially cause muscle pain or weakness; taking the medication at night can help reduce the incidence of these side effects. Option B is incorrect because the timing of statin administration is not related to its effectiveness throughout the day. Option C is a general precaution when taking medications but not the most important instruction specific to statins. Option D is incorrect as taking the medication with a high-fat meal can actually decrease its absorption.

4. Which clients are at highest risk for pneumonia?

A. Those in their 20s and 30s and generally healthy
B. Those who exercise regularly and are not exposed to pathogens
C. Those who are hospitalized and immunocompromised
D. Those who have adequate respiratory function

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Clients who are hospitalized and immunocompromised are at the highest risk for pneumonia due to their weakened immune systems. Choice A is incorrect as young and healthy individuals typically have stronger immune systems. Choice B is incorrect because regular exercise can actually boost the immune system and reduce the risk of infections. Choice D is incorrect as having adequate respiratory function does not necessarily correlate with the risk of developing pneumonia.

5. A patient with a history of venous thromboembolism is prescribed hormone replacement therapy (HRT). What should the nurse emphasize about the risks associated with this therapy?

A. HRT is associated with an increased risk of venous thromboembolism, so patients should be educated about the signs and symptoms of blood clots.
B. HRT may improve mood and energy levels, but it also increases the risk of osteoporosis.
C. HRT can decrease the risk of fractures, but it also increases the risk of developing diabetes.
D. HRT may increase the risk of breast cancer, so regular mammograms are essential.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: HRT is associated with an increased risk of venous thromboembolism, so patients should be educated about the signs and symptoms of blood clots and advised to seek immediate medical attention if they occur.