HESI LPN
Pharmacology HESI 2023
1. A client has been prescribed losartan. Which change in data indicates to the practical nurse (PN) that the desired effect of this medication has been achieved?
- A. Dependent edema reduced from +3 to +1.
- B. Serum HDL increased from 35 to 55 mg/dL.
- C. Pulse rate reduced from 150 to 90 beats/min.
- D. Blood pressure reduced from 160/90 to 130/80 mm Hg.
Correct answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D. Losartan is prescribed for the treatment of hypertension. The desired effect of losartan is to reduce blood pressure. Therefore, a reduction in blood pressure from 160/90 to 130/80 mm Hg indicates that the desired effect of the medication has been achieved. Choices A, B, and C are not specific effects of losartan and do not directly relate to the expected outcomes of this medication. Dependent edema, serum HDL levels, and pulse rate are not typically influenced by losartan, making choices A, B, and C incorrect.
2. A client with severe depression is prescribed sertraline. Which statement by the client indicates the need for further teaching?
- A. I can stop taking this medication once I feel better.
- B. It may take 1 to 4 weeks to notice improvement in symptoms.
- C. I should avoid alcohol while taking this medication.
- D. I should take this medication in the morning with food.
Correct answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A. Clients should not stop taking sertraline abruptly once they feel better without consulting their healthcare provider. It is important to complete the full course of treatment as prescribed to prevent a relapse of symptoms. Stopping the medication suddenly can lead to withdrawal symptoms and may worsen the condition. Choice B is correct because sertraline may take 1 to 4 weeks to show noticeable improvement in symptoms. Choice C is correct as alcohol should be avoided while taking sertraline due to the increased risk of side effects. Choice D is also correct as taking sertraline in the morning with food can help reduce gastrointestinal side effects.
3. A 59-year-old client is prescribed furosemide 40 mg twice a day for the management of heart failure. The practical nurse should monitor the client for the development of which complication?
- A. Hypokalemia
- B. Hyperchloremia
- C. Hypercalcemia
- D. Hypophosphatemia
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Corrected Rationale: Furosemide is a loop diuretic that inhibits the reabsorption of sodium and chloride in the kidneys, leading to increased potassium excretion and potentially causing hypokalemia. Hypokalemia can lead to cardiac irregularities, making it crucial for the practical nurse to monitor the client for this electrolyte imbalance. Choice B, Hyperchloremia, is not typically associated with furosemide use. Choices C and D, Hypercalcemia and Hypophosphatemia, are not common complications of furosemide therapy.
4. A client with a diagnosis of generalized anxiety disorder is prescribed diazepam. The nurse should instruct the client that this medication may have which potential side effect?
- A. Drowsiness
- B. Dry mouth
- C. Nausea
- D. Headache
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Correct. Diazepam, a medication commonly used to treat anxiety disorders, can lead to drowsiness as a potential side effect. It is important for clients taking diazepam to be cautious about activities that require alertness, such as driving, due to the risk of drowsiness associated with this medication. Choice B, dry mouth, is not typically associated with diazepam use. Choice C, nausea, is less common as a side effect of diazepam compared to drowsiness. Choice D, headache, is also less common and typically not a significant side effect of diazepam.
5. When a client with hepatic encephalopathy is receiving lactulose, which parameter is essential to monitor for a response to the drug?
- A. Serum hepatic enzymes
- B. Fingerstick glucose
- C. Stool color and character
- D. Serum electrolytes and ammonia
Correct answer: D
Rationale: In hepatic encephalopathy, the goal of lactulose therapy is to reduce blood ammonia levels by promoting its excretion in the stool. Therefore, monitoring serum electrolytes and ammonia levels is crucial to assess the effectiveness of lactulose in lowering ammonia levels and improving the client's condition. Options A, B, and C are incorrect because serum hepatic enzymes, fingerstick glucose, and stool color/character are not directly related to monitoring the response to lactulose therapy in hepatic encephalopathy.
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