You choose the safer drug action, the vital sign to check, and the teaching that belongs at the bedside. Five of the 15 questions include the correct answer and rationale. The other ten keep answers in the study hub. Continue with the RN exams exam guide or more RN exams practice questions.
Five pharmacology questions with answers
Cover the key. Write the first action. Then open the rationale and name why the other choices fail.
Question 1
A patient with asthma is prescribed fluticasone. Fluticasone is classified as:
A. A beta-agonist
B. A corticosteroid
C. A leukotriene modifier
D. An anticholinergic agent
Show answer and rationale
Correct answer: B — A corticosteroid
The correct answer is B: A corticosteroid. Fluticasone is a corticosteroid that works by reducing inflammation in the airways, which is crucial in managing asthma. Corticosteroids are the mainstay of asthma treatment as they help to decrease airway inflammation and prevent asthma symptoms.
Choice A, a beta-agonist, is incorrect because beta-agonists work by relaxing the muscles around the airways and are usually used as rescue inhalers for quick relief of asthma symptoms.
Choice C, a leukotriene modifier, is incorrect as leukotriene modifiers work by blocking the action of certain immune system chemicals that cause asthma symptoms, but they are not the classification for fluticasone.
Choice D, an anticholinergic agent, is incorrect as anticholinergics work by blocking acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter that causes airway constriction, and are typically used in conditions like COPD, not as the
Question 2
Which of the following disorders most likely caused the patient's tachycardia?
A. Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy
B. Atrial fibrillation
C. Mitral regurgitation
D. Mitral stenosis
Show answer and rationale
Correct answer: B — Atrial fibrillation
The correct answer is B: Atrial fibrillation. Atrial fibrillation is a common arrhythmia characterized by rapid, irregular heartbeats that can lead to tachycardia. In atrial fibrillation, the atria quiver instead of contracting effectively, leading to an irregular heart rhythm and increased heart rate. This condition can cause tachycardia due to the ineffective pumping of blood by the heart.
Incorrect choices:
A: Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy - This disorder can cause heart muscle thickening, leading to decreased ventricular filling and potentially causing arrhythmias, but it is not directly associated with tachycardia.
C: Mitral regurgitation - This condition can lead to an enlarged left atrium and decreased cardiac output, but tachycardia is not a direct result of mitral regurgitation.
D: Mitral stenosis - This condition can cause increased pressure in the left atrium and pulmonary congestion, but t
Question 3
A client diagnosed with bipolar I disorder: manic episode refuses to take lithium carbonate because he complains that it makes him feel sick. Which of the following medications might be alternatively prescribed for mood stabilization in bipolar disorders?
A. Sertraline (Zoloft)
B. Valproic acid (Depakote)
C. Trazodone (Desyrel)
D. Paroxetine (Paxil)
Show answer and rationale
Correct answer: B — Valproic acid (Depakote)
The correct answer is B: Valproic acid (Depakote). Valproic acid is commonly used as a mood stabilizer in bipolar disorder. It helps to control manic episodes and stabilize mood swings. It is effective in treating bipolar disorder and is well tolerated by many patients. It is an appropriate alternative to lithium carbonate for mood stabilization.
Explanation for why the other choices are incorrect:
A: Sertraline (Zoloft) is an antidepressant and not typically used as a primary treatment for bipolar disorder.
C: Trazodone (Desyrel) is primarily used as an antidepressant and not as a mood stabilizer for bipolar disorder.
D: Paroxetine (Paxil) is an antidepressant and is not indicated for mood stabilization in bipolar disorder.
In summary, Valproic acid (Depakote) is the most appropriate alternative medication for mood stabilization in bipolar disorder compared to the other choices provided.
Question 4
Loosening of teeth, gingivitis and hemorrhage occur in the deficiency of:
A. Vitamin К
B. Vitamin Ð’1
C. Vitamin B6
D. Vitamin C
Show answer and rationale
Correct answer: D — Vitamin C
Step-by-step rationale for why Vitamin C (Choice D) is the correct answer:
1. Vitamin C is essential for collagen synthesis, which is crucial for maintaining the integrity of gum tissues.
2. Deficiency of Vitamin C leads to weakened collagen, causing symptoms like loosening of teeth, gingivitis, and hemorrhage.
3. Vitamin K (Choice A) is important for blood clotting, not directly related to gum health.
4. Vitamin B1 (Choice B) is essential for energy production, not directly linked to gum health.
5. Vitamin B6 (Choice C) is involved in various metabolic processes, but not specifically related to gum health.
Summary:
The correct answer is Vitamin C (Choice D) because it is directly linked to maintaining healthy gum tissues by supporting collagen synthesis. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect as they are not directly associated with the symptoms of loosening of teeth, gingivitis, and hemorrhage.
Question 5
A patient is being educated on taking levothyroxine, a drug used to balance thyroid activity. What should you include in their education?
A. Don't bother your health care professionals if you experience
B. Take this at the same time every day
C. Thyroid tests are unnecessary while taking this drug
D. It is okay to take this drug if you have recently had a myocardial infarction
Show answer and rationale
Correct answer: B — Take this at the same time every day
It is important to educate the patient to take levothyroxine at the same time every day, preferably in the morning on an empty stomach. Consistency in timing helps to maintain stable levels of the medication in the body and optimize its effectiveness in balancing thyroid activity. This medication should not be taken with food, vitamins, or other medications that can interfere with its absorption. Regular thyroid tests are necessary to monitor the effectiveness of the medication and adjust the dosage as needed. If a patient has experienced a recent myocardial infarction or heart attack, it is crucial to consult with healthcare professionals before starting or continuing levothyroxine, as it can have implications on cardiovascular health. It is never advisable for patients to avoid consulting their healthcare professionals if they experience any adverse effects or have concerns about their medication.
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Question 6
A patient had an orthopedic surgery and is prescribed enoxaparin. What would the nurse teach the patient and/or family members about this low–molecular-weight heparin before discharge?
A. Visual demonstration of intramuscular heparin administration is recommended.
B. Prothrombin time and international normalized ratio monitoring will be done weekly.
C. Avoidance of green leafy vegetables is recommended.
D. Watch for bleeding or excessive bruising.
Correct answer:
The correct answer is D: Watch for bleeding or excessive bruising. Enoxaparin is an anticoagulant medication that helps prevent blood clots. The nurse should teach the patient and family members to monitor for signs of bleeding or excessive bruising, as these could indicate a potential complication of the medication. This is crucial for early detection and intervention to prevent serious consequences.
Explanation for incorrect choices:
A: Visual demonstration of intramuscular heparin administration is not applicable to enoxaparin as it is typically administered subcutaneously.
B: Prothrombin time and international normalized ratio monitoring are not usually required for enoxaparin as it works through a different mechanism compared to warfarin.
C: Avoidance of green leafy vegetables is not necessary for enoxaparin, unlike warfarin which interacts with vitamin K found in green leafy vegetables.
When assessing a client with a disorder of the hematopoietic or the lymphatic, why is it important for the nurse to obtain a dietary history?
A. Compromised nutrition interferes with the production of blood cells and hemoglobin
B. Diet consisting of excessive fat interferes with the production of blood cells and haemoglobin
C. Inconsistent dieting interferes with the production of blood cells and haemoglobin
D. Diet consisting of excessive iron and protein elements interferes with the production of blood cells and haemoglobin
Correct answer:
The correct answer is A because compromised nutrition can lead to deficiencies in essential nutrients required for the production of blood cells and hemoglobin. Iron, vitamins, and minerals obtained from food are crucial for erythropoiesis and maintaining a healthy immune system. Without these nutrients, the body may struggle to produce an adequate amount of healthy red blood cells, leading to anemia and compromised immune function.
Choice B is incorrect because excessive fat in the diet is not directly linked to interfering with the production of blood cells and hemoglobin. Choice C is incorrect as inconsistent dieting may affect overall health but is not specifically related to hematopoiesis. Choice D is incorrect because while iron and protein are important for blood cell production, excessive amounts of these elements are unlikely to interfere with the production of blood cells and hemoglobin.
A patient has received an IV dose of adenosine, and almost immediately the heart monitor shows
A. What should the nurse do next?
B. Check the patient™s puls
D. Prepare to administer cardiopulmonary resuscitation.
Correct answer:
Adenosine is a medication commonly used to treat certain types of irregular heartbeats, such as supraventricular tachycardia. One of the common side effects of adenosine administration is transient asystole or a brief pause in the electrical activity of the heart. This can cause the heart to stop beating momentarily, leading to a drop in blood pressure and a feeling of lightheadedness in the patient. Therefore, in this scenario where the heart monitor shows an immediate abnormality after adenosine administration, the nurse should prepare to administer cardiopulmonary resuscitation and be ready to intervene if the patient's heart rhythm deteriorates further. It is crucial to be proactive and prepared to respond quickly to any adverse effects of the medication to prevent potential harm to the patient. Regular monitoring should also continue to assess the patient's condition and response to treatment.
A balanced anesthetic technique for production of general anesthesia may include which of the following drugs?
A. an inhalation anesthetic
B. a narcotic
C. a muscle relaxant
D. all of these
Correct answer:
A balanced anesthetic technique for producing general anesthesia usually involves a combination of different types of drugs to achieve the desired level of unconsciousness, analgesia, muscle relaxation, and amnesia while minimizing adverse effects. The use of multiple drugs simultaneously allows for lower doses of each drug, reducing the risk of toxicity and adverse side effects. In a typical balanced anesthesia regimen, an inhalation anesthetic is used for the maintenance of anesthesia, a narcotic provides analgesia, a muscle relaxant is used to facilitate intubation and reduce muscle movements during surgery, and an IV barbiturate may be used as an induction agent to initiate anesthesia. Therefore, all of the options provided - an inhalation anesthetic, a narcotic, a muscle relaxant, and an IV barbiturate - are commonly included in a balanced anesthetic technique for producing general anesthesia.
A client has been severely depressed and suicidal. After admission to an inpatient psychiatric unit, antidepressant medication is administered. As the client becomes more energized and communicative, what should be the priority nursing intervention for this client?
A. Allowing the client to have unsupervised passes to his or her home
B. Encouraging the client to participate in group activities
C. Increasing the vigilance regarding the client's suicidal precautions
D. Recognizing that the client's suicidal potential has decreased
Correct answer:
Correct Answer: C - Increasing the vigilance regarding the client's suicidal precautions
Rationale:
1. The client was admitted for severe depression and suicidal ideation, indicating a high suicide risk.
2. Antidepressants can initially increase energy before improving mood, potentially raising suicide risk.
3. As the client becomes more energized and communicative, the risk of impulsive actions, including suicide, may increase.
4. Therefore, increasing vigilance and maintaining strict suicidal precautions are crucial to ensure the client's safety.
Summary of Incorrect Choices:
A: Allowing unsupervised passes may expose the client to triggers or opportunities for self-harm.
B: Group activities can be beneficial but do not address the immediate safety concern of suicidal risk.
D: Assuming suicidal potential has decreased prematurely can be dangerous, as the client may still be at risk.
A patient with asthma is prescribed fluticasone. Fluticasone is classified as:
A. A beta-agonist
B. A corticosteroid
C. A leukotriene modifier
D. An anticholinergic agent
Correct answer:
The correct answer is B: A corticosteroid. Fluticasone is a corticosteroid that works by reducing inflammation in the airways, which is crucial in managing asthma. Corticosteroids are the mainstay of asthma treatment as they help to decrease airway inflammation and prevent asthma symptoms.
Choice A, a beta-agonist, is incorrect because beta-agonists work by relaxing the muscles around the airways and are usually used as rescue inhalers for quick relief of asthma symptoms.
Choice C, a leukotriene modifier, is incorrect as leukotriene modifiers work by blocking the action of certain immune system chemicals that cause asthma symptoms, but they are not the classification for fluticasone.
Choice D, an anticholinergic agent, is incorrect as anticholinergics work by blocking acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter that causes airway constriction, and are typically used in conditions like COPD, not as the
Chloramphenicol is usually effective in typhoid (C), caused by Salmonella typhi, due to its broad-spectrum activity and excellent tissue penetration, including intracellular bacteria. It's not used for pulmonary tuberculosis (A), where specific anti-TB drugs like isoniazid are required, as chloramphenicol lacks activity against Mycobacterium tuberculosis. It's effective in epiglottitis (B) caused by Haemophilus influenzae, especially in resource-limited settings, but cephalosporins are preferred. It's also effective in bacterial meningitis (D), penetrating the CSF well to treat H. influenzae, S. pneumoniae, and N. meningitidis infections. Bacterial conjunctivitis (original E) responds to topical chloramphenicol. Its use in typhoid reflects its historical efficacy, though resistance and rare aplastic anemia risk limit its routine use today, favoring fluoroquinolones or ceftriaxone in many regions.
A 50-year-old female with hypothyroidism is prescribed levothyroxine. Levothyroxine works by:
A. Increasing the production of thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH)
B. Replacing deficient thyroid hormone
C. Inhibiting thyroid hormone synthesis
D. Increasing the metabolism of thyroid hormones
Correct answer:
The correct answer is B: Replacing deficient thyroid hormone. Levothyroxine is a synthetic form of the thyroid hormone thyroxine (T4). In hypothyroidism, the thyroid gland does not produce enough thyroid hormones, leading to various symptoms. By prescribing levothyroxine, we are supplying the body with the thyroid hormone it lacks, thereby replacing the deficient hormone and restoring normal thyroid function.
Explanation of other choices:
A: Increasing the production of thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) is incorrect because levothyroxine does not directly affect TSH production.
C: Inhibiting thyroid hormone synthesis is incorrect because levothyroxine does not inhibit thyroid hormone production.
D: Increasing the metabolism of thyroid hormones is incorrect because levothyroxine does not directly increase the metabolism of existing thyroid hormones; it simply replaces the deficient hormone.
A 30-year-old primipara woman had visible vaginal bleeding within a few hours after delivering her baby. Uterine massage and infusion of oxytocin did not control the bleeding. Upon examination, it was felt that the hemorrhage was due to uterine atony. An intramuscular injection of ergonovine was given. Which of the following actions most likely mediated the therapeutic effect of the drug in this patient?
A. Selective constriction of uterine arteries
B. Endothelin release in the uterine vascular bed
C. Platelet aggregation in the uterine vascular bed
D. Induction of powerful uterine contracture
Correct answer:
The correct answer is D: Induction of powerful uterine contracture. Ergonovine is a uterotonic agent that works by stimulating uterine contractions, which helps control postpartum hemorrhage due to uterine atony. The drug acts directly on the smooth muscle of the uterus, leading to increased tone and decreased bleeding.
A: Selective constriction of uterine arteries is incorrect because ergonovine primarily acts on the uterine muscle itself, not the blood vessels supplying the uterus.
B: Endothelin release in the uterine vascular bed is incorrect as ergonovine does not directly affect endothelin release.
C: Platelet aggregation in the uterine vascular bed is incorrect as ergonovine's action is not related to platelet aggregation but rather to uterine muscle contraction.
In summary, the therapeutic effect of ergonovine in this patient is mediated by its ability to induce powerful uterine contr
Chloramphenicol is usually effective in typhoid (C), caused by Salmonella typhi, due to its broad-spectrum activity and excellent tissue penetration, including intracellular bacteria. It's not used for pulmonary tuberculosis (A), where specific anti-TB drugs like isoniazid are required, as chloramphenicol lacks activity against Mycobacterium tuberculosis. It's effective in epiglottitis (B) caused by Haemophilus influenzae, especially in resource-limited settings, but cephalosporins are preferred. It's also effective in bacterial meningitis (D), penetrating the CSF well to treat H. influenzae, S. pneumoniae, and N. meningitidis infections. Bacterial conjunctivitis (original E) responds to topical chloramphenicol. Its use in typhoid reflects its historical efficacy, though resistance and rare aplastic anemia risk limit its routine use today, favoring fluoroquinolones or ceftriaxone in many regions.
RN exams pharmacology practice questions, set 12 for nursing students in the United States. Fifteen items. Five include answers and rationales in American English.
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