ATI LPN Pharmacology

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Sample questions from ATI LPN Pharmacology

This material has 90 questions with answers and rationales. Here are the first 5.

1. 1.A client taking warfarin for atrial fibrillation asks which over-the-counter medication to use for a mild headache. Which response should the practical nurse make?

   • A.Take ibuprofen because it does not affect blood clotting.
   • B.Take naproxen and skip the next warfarin dose.
   • C.Use aspirin because it prevents blood clots.
   • D.Use acetaminophen as directed and check with the provider before taking other pain relievers.

   Rationale: Acetaminophen is generally less likely than NSAIDs or aspirin to increase bleeding risk, although the client should consult the provider before regular use. Ibuprofen, aspirin, and naproxen can increase bleeding when combined with warfarin. The client should not independently change the anticoagulant dose.

2. 2.At change of shift, the practical nurse receives report on four clients. Which client should be reported to the RN first?

   • A.A client using a prescribed stool softener who has not had a bowel movement for 1 day.
   • B.A client taking a multivitamin who asks whether to take it with breakfast.
   • C.A client taking digoxin who reports nausea and has a newly noted apical pulse of 52/min.
   • D.A client taking an antihistamine who reports mild dry mouth.

   Rationale: Nausea and bradycardia in a client taking digoxin may indicate toxicity or a clinically significant adverse effect and require prompt reporting. The other findings are generally less urgent and can be addressed with routine monitoring or teaching. The practical nurse reports concerning changes rather than independently changing the prescription.

3. 3.During a home visit, a client newly prescribed an opioid for acute pain asks how to use it safely. Which instructions should the practical nurse reinforce? Select all that apply.

   • A.Take an extra dose if pain remains after 15 minutes, regardless of the directions.
   • B.Report severe sleepiness or slow, difficult breathing promptly.
   • C.Store the medication securely away from children and visitors.
   • D.Use the medication only as prescribed and keep track of doses.
   • E.Avoid alcohol and other sedating medicines unless the prescriber approves them.

   Rationale: Following the prescription, avoiding unapproved sedatives, and securing the medication help prevent overdose and accidental ingestion. Severe sedation or slow, difficult breathing can signal opioid toxicity and requires urgent help. Taking an extra dose without authorization is unsafe.

4. 4.A client taking an anticoagulant asks what to do after noticing blood in the urine. Which response is best?

   • A.'Tell the RN or prescriber promptly; blood in the urine can be a sign of bleeding.'
   • B.'Take an over-the-counter aspirin for discomfort.'
   • C.'Drink cranberry juice and wait a week.'
   • D.'Skip the next three doses and restart when the urine clears.'

   Answer and rationale are in the full material.

5. 5.A client taking an inhaled corticosteroid asks how to reduce medication-related mouth irritation. Which instruction should the practical nurse reinforce?

   • A.Use the inhaler only when an asthma attack begins.
   • B.Rinse the mouth and spit after each use.
   • C.Stop the inhaler when breathing improves.
   • D.Swallow water containing the medication after each dose.

   Answer and rationale are in the full material.