a nurse is teaching a young adult patient about oral contraceptives which the patient will soon begin taking the patients primary concern is the effec

ATI RN

Pathophysiology Final Exam

1. A nurse is teaching a young adult patient about oral contraceptives, which the patient will soon begin taking. The patient's primary concern is the effectiveness of the medication in preventing pregnancy. The nurse should teach the patient that oral contraceptives, when taken consistently, are how effective in preventing pregnancy?

A. Between 96% and 98%
B. Approximately 98.5%
C. Highly effective, but partially dependent on genetic factors
D. Nearly 100%

Correct answer: D

Rationale: When taken correctly, estrogen–progestin contraceptive preparations are nearly 100% effective in preventing pregnancy. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect. Choice A suggests a range below the actual effectiveness, choice B provides a specific percentage that is not accurate, and choice C introduces the concept of genetic factors which is not relevant to the effectiveness of oral contraceptives.

2. A client with atrial fibrillation is at risk for which of the following complications?

A. Deep vein thrombosis (DVT)
B. Pulmonary embolism
C. Hypertensive crisis
D. Myocardial infarction

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Corrected Rationale: A client with atrial fibrillation is at increased risk of thromboembolism due to blood stasis in the atria. This can lead to the formation of blood clots, which may travel to the lungs and cause a pulmonary embolism. Pulmonary embolism is a serious complication of atrial fibrillation. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because while atrial fibrillation can lead to complications such as stroke or heart failure, it is specifically associated with an increased risk of pulmonary embolism due to the clot formation associated with the condition.

3. A 55-year-old male patient is taking finasteride (Proscar) for benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). What patient teaching should the nurse provide regarding the use of this medication?

A. Avoid taking over-the-counter antacids while on this medication.
B. This medication may decrease libido.
C. This medication may take several months to improve symptoms.
D. This medication may cause increased hair growth.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Correct Answer: The nurse should inform the patient that finasteride may take several months to improve symptoms of BPH. It is essential for patients to understand the delayed onset of action to manage their expectations and compliance. Choice A is incorrect because there is no significant interaction between finasteride and over-the-counter antacids. Choice B is incorrect as finasteride is more commonly associated with decreased libido rather than increased libido. Choice D is incorrect as finasteride is known to reduce hair growth rather than increase it.

4. What specific instructions should the nurse provide to ensure proper administration of alendronate (Fosamax) for the treatment of osteoporosis?

A. Take the medication with a full glass of water and remain upright for at least 30 minutes.
B. Take the medication at bedtime to ensure absorption during sleep.
C. Take the medication with milk to enhance calcium absorption.
D. Take the medication with food to prevent gastrointestinal upset.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is to take the medication with a full glass of water and remain upright for at least 30 minutes. This is important to prevent esophageal irritation and ensure proper absorption. Choice B is incorrect because alendronate should be taken in the morning on an empty stomach, at least 30 minutes before eating or drinking anything other than water. Choice C is incorrect because alendronate should not be taken with milk as it can interfere with its absorption. Choice D is incorrect because alendronate should be taken on an empty stomach, not with food.

5. What function does aldosterone serve in the body?

A. Aldosterone causes a release of sodium from the body, decreases fluid volume, and decreases blood pressure
B. Aldosterone causes a retention of sodium in the body, increases fluid volume, and increases blood pressure
C. Aldosterone causes a release of sodium from the body, increases fluid volume, and decreases blood pressure
D. Aldosterone enhances intracellular sodium production and lowers blood pressure

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Aldosterone functions by causing the retention of sodium in the body, which results in an increase in fluid volume and blood pressure. Choice A is incorrect because aldosterone actually promotes sodium retention rather than release. Choice C is incorrect as it states that aldosterone decreases fluid volume, which is not accurate. Choice D is incorrect because aldosterone does not enhance intracellular sodium production; instead, it primarily acts on sodium reabsorption in the kidneys.