HESI RN
HESI Pharmacology Practice Exam
1. A client is taking cetirizine hydrochloride (Zyrtec). The nurse checks for which of the following side effects of this medication?
- A. Diarrhea
- B. Excitability
- C. Drowsiness
- D. Excess salivation
Correct answer: C
Rationale: Cetirizine hydrochloride (Zyrtec) is known to commonly cause drowsiness or sedation as a side effect. Therefore, the nurse should monitor the client for signs of drowsiness when administering this medication. Choice A, Diarrhea, is not a common side effect of cetirizine. Choice B, Excitability, is not a typical side effect of this antihistamine; instead, it tends to cause drowsiness. Choice D, Excess salivation, is not associated with cetirizine use.
2. Phenazopyridine hydrochloride (Pyridium) is prescribed for a client for symptomatic relief of pain resulting from a lower urinary tract infection. The nurse reinforces to the client:
- A. To take the medication after meals
- B. To take the medication before meals
- C. To discontinue the medication if a headache occurs
- D. That a reddish-orange discoloration of the urine may occur
Correct answer: D
Rationale: The nurse should instruct the client that a reddish-orange discoloration of urine may occur. The nurse should also educate the client that this discoloration can stain fabric. It is recommended to take the medication after meals to reduce the possibility of gastrointestinal upset. While a headache is an occasional side effect of the medication, it does not warrant discontinuation of the medication.
3. Glimepiride (Amaryl) is prescribed for a client with diabetes mellitus. A healthcare provider reinforces instructions for the client and advises them to avoid which of the following while taking this medication?
- A. Alcohol
- B. Organ meats
- C. Whole-grain cereals
- D. Carbonated beverages
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Alcohol should be avoided when taking glimepiride (Amaryl) because it can cause a disulfiram-like reaction and enhance the hypoglycemic effects of the medication. Consuming alcohol with glimepiride can lead to symptoms such as flushing, palpitations, nausea, and vomiting. Therefore, it is crucial for individuals on glimepiride therapy to steer clear of alcohol to prevent adverse reactions and maintain optimal medication efficacy.
4. A client is prescribed alendronate (Fosamax) for the treatment of osteoporosis. Which instruction should the nurse provide to the client?
- A. Take the medication at bedtime.
- B. Take the medication with a full glass of water.
- C. Lie down for 30 minutes after taking the medication.
- D. Take the medication with food to avoid gastrointestinal upset.
Correct answer: B
Rationale: The correct instruction for a client prescribed alendronate (Fosamax) for osteoporosis is to take the medication with a full glass of water first thing in the morning. It should be taken at least 30 minutes before any food, beverage, or other medication. The client should also remain upright for at least 30 minutes after taking the medication to prevent esophageal irritation. Taking alendronate at bedtime or with food is not recommended as it may reduce its absorption and effectiveness.
5. When assessing the effectiveness of leflunomide (Arava) in a client with rheumatoid arthritis, which question should the nurse ask during data collection?
- A. Do you have any joint pain?
- B. Are you having any diarrhea?
- C. Do you have frequent headaches?
- D. Are you experiencing heartburn?
Correct answer: A
Rationale: To assess the effectiveness of leflunomide (Arava), a medication used to treat rheumatoid arthritis, the nurse should inquire about joint pain. Joint pain is a common symptom of rheumatoid arthritis, and improvement in joint pain indicates the medication's effectiveness in managing the condition.
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