Virtual ATI: Pharmacology
Therapies Latest Questions and
Graded Answers
A client with a digoxin level of 2.4 ng/ml has a heart rate of
39. The health care provider prescribes atropine sulfate.
Which of the following best describes the intended action of
atropine for this client?
A. To reduce peristalsis and urinary bladder tone.
b. To accelerate the heart rate by interfering with vagal
impulses.
c. To dry oral and tracheobronchial secretions.
d. To stimulate the SA node and sympathetic fibers to
increase the rate.
Ans: To accelerate the heart rate by interfering with
vagal impulses
Atropine accelerates the heart rate by interfering
with vagal impulses. It is given IVP at doses of 0.5mg
to 1.0mg per dose; every 3 to 5 minutes; up to
2.0mg. Doses less than 0.5mg may cause a
paradoxical slowing of the heart rate. When Atropine
is given to a client with history of an MI it should be
used with great caution; increasing the heart rate
also increases myocardial oxygen consumption!
A client is prescribed digoxin 1mg by mouth QID. The client
states that the objects in his room have a yellowish tinge and
he is nauseated. Select the most appropriate nursing action
at this time.
Up to Date Content
,Comprehensive Study 2 Up to Date Content
a. Count the apical pulse; if it is regular and above 60,
administer the drug as ordered.
b. Administer the medication and observe the client for
further nausea.
c. Hold the drug and call the health care provider.
d. Hold the medication and count the apical pulse before the
next dose is to be given.
Ans: Hold the drug and call the health care provider
client is showing signs of digitalis toxicity. The most
appropriate action is to hold the drug and call the
health care provider. Severe arrhythmia may develop
if action is not taken
A client diagnosed with preterm labor has been prescribed
nifedipine. The client asks the nurse why this particular
medication has been prescribed. Which of the following
statements by the nurse is correct?
a. To decrease the intensity of your pain
b. To relax your muscles of your uterus
c. To lower your blood pressure
d. To promote development of your baby's lungs
Ans: To relax your muscles of your uterus
A client is admitted to the hospital with a diagnosis of
diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA). An intravenous infusion of
regular insulin has been started. Which of the following
nursing interventions is most appropriate for this client?
a. Obtain an arterial blood gas every 2 hours
Up to Date Content
, Comprehensive Study 3 Up to Date Content
b. Ensure glucagon is readily available
c. Add the prescribed dose of NPH insulin to the IV infusion
d. Monitor blood glucose levels every 4 hours
Ans: Ensure glucagon is readily available
Glucagon and D50 are used for rapid treatment of
hypoglycemia which can occur when insulin is
administered intravenously
A nurse is evaluating a client's understanding of lithium.
Which statement by the client indicates a need for further
education?
a. "I should take the medication on an empty stomach."
b. "I will drink 8-12 glasses of water a day."
c. "I will contact my provider if I develop diarrhea."
d. "I should have my blood level drawn as directed."
Ans: "I should take the medication on an empty
stomach."
The client should be instructed to contact their
provider any time they develop diarrhea. Diarrhea
can cause significant sodium loss which will lead to
lithium toxicity.
A nurse is caring for a client taking captopril. Which finding
would require immediate attention for this client?
a. Blood pressure 96/48
b. Pulse 56
Up to Date Content