HESI LPN
Pharmacology HESI 55 Questions 2023
1. A client taking long-term steroids also has ranitidine prescribed. The nurse provides which explanation as to why these drugs are given together?
- A. Ranitidine reduces the risk of ulcers associated with steroids.
- B. Ranitidine decreases the risk of infection associated with steroids.
- C. Ranitidine decreases blood sugar elevations associated with steroids.
- D. Ranitidine reduces sodium retention associated with steroid usage.
Correct answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A. Ranitidine is prescribed with long-term steroids to reduce the risk of ulcers associated with steroid therapy. Although steroids can increase the risk of ulcers due to their effect on the gastrointestinal system, ranitidine works by reducing stomach acid production, thus helping to prevent ulcer formation. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect as ranitidine is not given to decrease the risk of infection, reduce blood sugar elevations, or reduce sodium retention associated with steroid usage.
2. A client with a history of atrial fibrillation is prescribed amiodarone. The nurse should monitor for which potential side effect?
- A. Pulmonary toxicity
- B. Liver toxicity
- C. Thyroid dysfunction
- D. Bradycardia
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Corrected Rationale: Amiodarone is known to cause pulmonary toxicity, which can manifest as respiratory symptoms. Monitoring for signs such as cough, dyspnea, or chest pain is essential to detect this serious side effect early and prevent further complications. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because while amiodarone can also cause liver toxicity, thyroid dysfunction, and bradycardia, pulmonary toxicity is the most serious side effect that requires immediate attention due to its potential life-threatening consequences.
3. A client with type 2 diabetes mellitus is prescribed exenatide. The nurse should monitor for which potential adverse effect?
- A. Nausea
- B. Hypoglycemia
- C. Hyperglycemia
- D. Pancreatitis
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Exenatide, a medication commonly used in type 2 diabetes, is known to cause gastrointestinal side effects, such as nausea. Monitoring for nausea is essential as it can lead to decreased appetite and potential weight loss, affecting the nutritional status of the client. While hypoglycemia and hyperglycemia are important to monitor in diabetes management, they are not typically associated with exenatide use. Pancreatitis is a rare but serious adverse effect of exenatide, which requires immediate medical attention if suspected.
4. What side effect is a male client likely to experience while receiving furosemide 40mg by mouth?
- A. Difficulty starting urination
- B. Nosebleeds
- C. Muscle cramps
- D. Visual disturbances
Correct answer: C
Rationale: Muscle cramps are a common side effect of furosemide due to its impact on electrolyte levels, especially potassium. Furosemide is a loop diuretic that can lead to potassium depletion, resulting in muscle cramps as one of the manifestations of electrolyte imbalances. Therefore, choices A, B, and D are incorrect. Difficulty starting urination is not a common side effect of furosemide; nosebleeds and visual disturbances are not typically associated with this medication.
5. A client with a diagnosis of bipolar disorder is prescribed topiramate. The nurse should monitor for which potential adverse effect?
- A. Cognitive impairment
- B. Weight gain
- C. Liver toxicity
- D. Weight loss
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Correct. Topiramate is associated with cognitive impairment as an adverse effect. It is important for the nurse to monitor the client's cognitive function while on this medication to assess for any signs of cognitive decline or impairment. Choice B, weight gain, is incorrect as topiramate is actually associated with weight loss rather than weight gain. Choice C, liver toxicity, is also incorrect as topiramate is not known to cause liver toxicity. Choice D, weight loss, is not the correct answer as topiramate is not associated with weight gain.
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