HESI LPN
HESI Practice Test Pharmacology
1. A client with a history of stroke is prescribed clopidogrel. The nurse should monitor for which potential side effect?
- A. Bleeding
- B. Weight gain
- C. Nausea
- D. Headache
Correct answer: A
Rationale: When a client with a history of stroke is prescribed clopidogrel, the nurse should monitor for potential side effects, especially bleeding. Clopidogrel is an antiplatelet medication that works by preventing blood clots. One of the major risks associated with clopidogrel is an increased tendency to bleed. Therefore, monitoring for signs of bleeding, such as easy bruising, blood in stool or urine, or prolonged bleeding from minor cuts, is crucial to ensure patient safety and early intervention if needed.
2. A client with a productive cough and fever has been diagnosed with bacterial pneumonia and is being admitted to the unit from the emergency room. Which intervention should the practical nurse ensure has been done prior to the administration of antibiotics?
- A. Sputum specimen
- B. Set of vital signs
- C. Electrocardiogram
- D. Glucometer check
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Before initiating antibiotic therapy in a client with bacterial pneumonia, obtaining a sputum specimen for culture and sensitivity is essential. This helps identify the specific bacteria causing the infection and guides the selection of the most effective antibiotic treatment.
3. While a client is receiving the medication haloperidol, which client data would indicate to the practical nurse that the medication is therapeutic?
- A. The client has maintained consistent weight loss of 2 pounds per week.
- B. The client has demonstrated a decrease in paranoid behaviors.
- C. The client's blood pressure has remained within normal limits.
- D. The client's fasting blood glucose has remained below 120 mg/dL.
Correct answer: B
Rationale: When a client is taking haloperidol, a therapeutic response involves a decrease in symptoms such as paranoia, hallucinations, delusions, and emotional excitement. These improvements indicate that the medication is effectively managing the client's condition. Monitoring for a reduction in paranoid behaviors helps the practical nurse assess the medication's effectiveness in addressing the client's psychiatric symptoms.
4. A client with osteoporosis is prescribed alendronate. The practical nurse (PN) should reinforce which instruction regarding the administration of this medication?
- A. Take the medication with a full glass of water before breakfast.
- B. Take the medication immediately after a meal.
- C. Lie down for 30 minutes after taking the medication.
- D. Crush the medication and mix it with food.
Correct answer: A
Rationale: The correct instruction for administering alendronate is to take the medication with a full glass of water before breakfast. This timing is crucial to ensure proper absorption in the body and reduce the risk of esophageal irritation. Taking it immediately after a meal or lying down for 30 minutes after may affect absorption and increase the risk of adverse effects. It should not be crushed or mixed with food to maintain its effectiveness.
5. A client with hypertension is prescribed atenolol. The nurse should monitor for which potential side effect?
- A. Bradycardia
- B. Tachycardia
- C. Dry mouth
- D. Hypotension
Correct answer: A
Rationale: When a client is prescribed atenolol, a beta-blocker, the nurse should monitor for bradycardia, which is a potential side effect. Atenolol works by slowing the heart rate, so monitoring the client's heart rate is essential to detect and manage bradycardia promptly.
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