HESI LPN
HESI Practice Test Pharmacology
1. A client with a diagnosis of bipolar disorder is prescribed lamotrigine. The nurse should monitor for which potential adverse effect?
- A. Rash
- B. Tremors
- C. Hair loss
- D. Weight gain
Correct answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Rash. Lamotrigine can cause a rash, which may indicate a serious adverse effect like Stevens-Johnson syndrome. Monitoring for a rash is crucial in clients taking lamotrigine to promptly address any potential severe reactions.
2. The nurse is working in a community health clinic that serves a diverse population. Which of the following actions best demonstrates cultural competence?
- A. Learning about the cultural practices of the clinic's client population
- B. Providing translation services for non-English speaking clients
- C. Treating all clients the same regardless of their background
- D. Encouraging clients to adopt mainstream health practices
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Learning about the cultural practices of the clinic's client population is the best way to demonstrate cultural competence. This action shows respect for the diverse backgrounds of the clients and helps in providing care that is sensitive to their cultural beliefs and practices. Providing translation services (Choice B) is important for effective communication but may not address the deeper aspects of cultural competence. Treating all clients the same (Choice C) may overlook the unique needs that arise from cultural differences. Encouraging clients to adopt mainstream health practices (Choice D) may not be appropriate or respectful of their cultural traditions and preferences.
3. What is the first-line treatment for a child with a bacterial ear infection?
- A. Intravenous antibiotics
- B. Oral antibiotics
- C. Nasal decongestants
- D. Antihistamines
Correct answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Oral antibiotics. Oral antibiotics are the first-line treatment for bacterial ear infections in children as they effectively target the infection at the source and help alleviate symptoms. Intravenous antibiotics (Choice A) are typically reserved for severe cases where oral antibiotics are not sufficient. Nasal decongestants (Choice C) and antihistamines (Choice D) are not the primary treatments for bacterial ear infections. Nasal decongestants are used for nasal congestion, and antihistamines are used for allergies. However, these medications do not directly address the bacterial infection in the ear, unlike oral antibiotics.
4. The nurse is caring for a client who is postoperative following a hip replacement. Which intervention is most important to prevent dislocation of the prosthesis?
- A. Keep the client in a low Fowler's position.
- B. Maintain hip abduction with pillows.
- C. Encourage early ambulation.
- D. Place the client in a prone position.
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Maintaining hip abduction with pillows is the most important intervention to prevent dislocation of the hip prosthesis postoperatively. This position helps keep the hip joint stable and prevents excessive internal rotation, which can lead to dislocation. Keeping the client in a low Fowler's position (Choice A) does not provide the necessary support and stability for the hip joint. While early ambulation (Choice C) is important for preventing complications such as blood clots and promoting circulation, it is not the most crucial intervention for preventing dislocation. Placing the client in a prone position (Choice D) can be harmful and increase the risk of dislocation.
5. While assisting a client with a meal, the client suddenly grabs at their neck with both hands and appears frightened. The appropriate nursing action is to:
- A. Ask the client if they are choking
- B. Perform abdominal thrusts
- C. Call for emergency help
- D. Check the client’s airway
Correct answer: A
Rationale: The correct action when a client suddenly grabs at their neck and appears frightened is to ask if they are choking. This allows the nurse to gather more information from the client directly. Performing abdominal thrusts (choice B) should only be done if the client is unable to speak, cough, or breathe. Calling for emergency help (choice C) should be done after assessing the situation and confirming choking. Checking the client's airway (choice D) is important but should come after confirming that the client is choking.