ATI PHARMACOLOGY PROCTORED EXAM 2025-2026 |
VERIFIED TEST BANK WITH CORRECT ANSWERS &
RATIONALES | GRADED A+ PASS GUARANTEED
1. A nurse is caring for a 72-year-old client admitted with atrial fibrillation who is
prescribed digoxin 0.25 mg orally daily. The client also takes furosemide and has a history
of chronic kidney disease. During the morning assessment, the nurse notes the client is
complaining of nausea, general weakness, and blurred vision. Vital signs reveal a heart rate
of 52 bpm and blood pressure of 122/78 mmHg. Laboratory results show a potassium level
of 3.0 mEq/L and a serum digoxin level of 2.4 ng/mL. Which of the following actions should
the nurse take first based on these findings?
A. Administer potassium chloride as prescribed
B. Hold the next dose of digoxin and notify the provider
C. Encourage the client to increase fluid intake
D. Continue routine monitoring and reassess in 4 hours
Correct Answer: B. Hold the next dose of digoxin and notify the provider
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Rationale: The client's symptoms (nausea, weakness, blurred vision), bradycardia, low
potassium level, and elevated digoxin level strongly indicate digoxin toxicity. The first nursing
action should be to withhold the medication and notify the provider for further evaluation.
Administering potassium may help correct hypokalemia, but addressing the digoxin toxicity
takes priority. Continuing the medication could worsen toxicity and lead to cardiac dysrhythmias
or death. Prompt provider notification ensures timely treatment, which may include
administering digoxin immune Fab.
Test-Taking Strategy: Recognize classic signs of digoxin toxicity. Prioritize patient safety
using the ABC approach (Airway, Breathing, Circulation) — bradycardia and toxicity pose an
immediate circulatory threat.
PTS: 1 | DIF: Apply | REF: ATI Pharmacology Review Module 2025 | OBJ: Medication Safety
& Monitoring
2. A nurse in the emergency department is preparing to administer naloxone to a client
who was found unresponsive at home with shallow respirations, pinpoint pupils, and a
respiratory rate of 6 breaths/min. The client’s partner reports the client has a history of
chronic back pain and was prescribed oxycodone but had recently increased his dose due
to worsening pain. The naloxone is to be given intranasally, and the nurse prepares to
administer the drug per standing orders. Which of the following outcomes best indicates
that the medication has been effective?
A. The client becomes agitated and hypertensive
B. The client’s respiratory rate increases to 14 breaths per minute
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C. The client reports a reduction in back pain
D. The client requests to sleep undisturbed
Correct Answer: B. The client’s respiratory rate increases to 14 breaths per minute
Rationale: Naloxone is an opioid antagonist that rapidly reverses the effects of opioid overdose,
primarily respiratory depression. An increased respiratory rate is the most direct and objective
sign of effectiveness. Although naloxone can cause agitation or hypertension as a side effect,
these do not measure its success. The goal is to restore adequate spontaneous breathing. Pain
relief or sedation do not indicate reversal. Nurses should continue to monitor the client since
naloxone’s half-life is shorter than many opioids, increasing the risk of rebound toxicity.
Test-Taking Strategy: Choose outcomes that directly reflect the therapeutic intent of the drug.
Focus on airway and breathing restoration in overdose situations.
PTS: 1 | DIF: Analyze | REF: ATI Pharmacology 2025 | OBJ: Emergency Medication
Administration
3. A nurse is reviewing discharge instructions with a client who has been prescribed
warfarin therapy following hospitalization for a deep vein thrombosis (DVT). The client is
also taking several over-the-counter supplements, including ginkgo biloba, garlic, and
vitamin E. During teaching, the client expresses confusion about diet and medication
interactions. Which of the following client statements indicates a need for further teaching
about warfarin therapy?
A. "I will get my INR checked regularly."
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B. "I can continue taking ginkgo biloba for my memory."
C. "I should use a soft-bristled toothbrush."
D. "I will try to avoid foods that are very high in vitamin K."
Correct Answer: B. "I can continue taking ginkgo biloba for my memory."
Rationale: Ginkgo biloba, garlic, and vitamin E all increase the risk of bleeding when taken
with warfarin due to their antiplatelet or anticoagulant properties. Clients should be taught to
avoid these supplements or consult their provider before use. An increased International
Normalized Ratio (INR) can result in dangerous bleeding events, particularly if warfarin is
potentiated by interactions. A soft-bristled toothbrush and avoiding high vitamin K intake are
correct practices. Ongoing INR monitoring is essential for warfarin safety.
Test-Taking Strategy: Identify the option that indicates a lack of understanding of drug–herb
interactions and safety precautions.
PTS: 1 | DIF: Apply | REF: ATI Pharmacology Module 2025 | OBJ: Safe Use of
Anticoagulants
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4. A nurse is caring for a pediatric client who has been diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic
leukemia and is currently receiving methotrexate therapy. The provider has ordered
leucovorin rescue therapy to be administered following chemotherapy. The nurse receives a
call from the pharmacy stating that the leucovorin dose is delayed. Which of the following
is the nurse’s best response in this situation?
A. Wait for the pharmacy to send the medication when it’s ready