HESI LPN
Pharmacology HESI Practice
1. A client is prescribed amitriptyline for depression. The practical nurse (PN) should monitor for which potential side effect?
- A. Insomnia
- B. Weight loss
- C. Dry mouth
- D. Increased appetite
Correct answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is 'D: Increased appetite.' Amitriptyline, a tricyclic antidepressant, is known to commonly cause increased appetite, leading to weight gain. Monitoring for increased appetite is crucial as it can impact the client's overall health and well-being. Choice A, 'Insomnia,' is less likely as amitriptyline is more associated with sedative effects. Choice B, 'Weight loss,' is incorrect as weight gain is a more common side effect. Choice C, 'Dry mouth,' is a potential side effect of amitriptyline, but it is not directly related to increased appetite, which is the primary concern in this case.
2. An older adult male is admitted with complications related to chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). He reports progressive dyspnea that worsens on exertion, and his weakness has increased over the past month. The nurse notes that he has dependent edema in both lower legs. Based on these assessment findings, which dietary instruction should the nurse provide?
- A. Restrict daily fluid intake
- B. Eat meals at the same time daily
- C. Maintain a low-protein diet
- D. Limit the intake of high-calorie foods
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Dependent edema in both lower legs is a sign of fluid overload, which can exacerbate dyspnea in patients with COPD. Restricting daily fluid intake can help reduce the edema and alleviate breathing difficulties. A low-protein diet is not necessary unless there are specific renal concerns. Eating meals at the same time daily or limiting high-calorie foods is not directly associated with addressing fluid overload and dyspnea in COPD patients.
3. The term 'epidemiology' is best defined as the study of:
- A. The causes of disease
- B. The distribution and determinants of health-related states in populations
- C. The treatment and prevention of disease
- D. The healthcare system and its effectiveness
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Epidemiology is the study of the distribution and determinants of health-related states in populations. Choice A is incorrect because epidemiology focuses on more than just causes but also on distribution and determinants. Choice C is incorrect as it specifically relates to public health and not just treatment and prevention. Choice D is incorrect as epidemiology is broader than just focusing on the healthcare system and its effectiveness.
4. A client, who is on a 30-day commitment to a drug rehabilitation unit, asks the nurse if he can go for a walk on the grounds of the treatment center. When he is told that his privileges do not include walking on the grounds, the client becomes verbally abusive. Which approach will the nurse take?
- A. Call a staff member to escort the client to his room.
- B. Tell the client to talk to his healthcare provider about his privileges.
- C. Remind the client of the unit rules.
- D. Ignore the client's inappropriate behavior.
Correct answer: C
Rationale: (C) is the correct approach in this situation as it reinforces unit rules, setting clear boundaries and expectations. By reminding the client of the unit rules, the nurse is helping to maintain a safe and structured environment within the drug rehabilitation unit. (A) is unnecessary since the client's behavior does not warrant immediate physical intervention. (B) is not ideal because the client's privileges have already been explained, and suggesting he speak to his healthcare provider may not address the immediate issue. (D) is not appropriate as addressing inappropriate behavior is essential in a therapeutic setting.
5. Which information should the nurse collect during the admission assessment of a terminally ill client to an acute care facility?
- A. Name of funeral home to contact
- B. Client's wishes regarding organ donation
- C. Contact information for the client's next of kin
- D. Healthcare proxy information
Correct answer: B
Rationale: During the admission assessment of a terminally ill client, it is crucial for the nurse to collect the client's wishes regarding organ donation. This information is vital to ensure that the care provided aligns with the client's values and preferences. Option A, 'Name of funeral home to contact,' is not a priority during the admission assessment and can be addressed later. Option C, 'Contact information for the client's next of kin,' is important but not as critical as understanding the client's wishes regarding organ donation. Option D, 'Healthcare proxy information,' is important for decision-making if the client is unable to make healthcare decisions, but knowing the client's wishes regarding organ donation takes precedence in this scenario.