HESI LPN
Pharmacology HESI 55 Questions 2023
1. A client with a history of seizures is prescribed valproic acid. The nurse should monitor for which potential adverse effect?
- A. Liver toxicity
- B. Kidney stones
- C. Weight gain
- D. Pancreatitis
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Corrected Valproic acid is known to cause liver toxicity as a potential adverse effect. Regular monitoring of liver function tests is crucial to detect any signs of liver damage early on and prevent serious complications. Kidney stones, weight gain, and pancreatitis are not typically associated with valproic acid use, making them incorrect choices in this scenario.
2. An anxious client expressing a fear of people and open places is admitted to the psychiatric unit. What is the most effective way for the nurse to assist this client?
- A. Plan an outing within the second week of admission.
- B. Distract the client whenever they express discomfort about being with others.
- C. Confront the client's fears and discuss the possible causes of these fears.
- D. Accompany the client outside for an increasing amount of time each day.
Correct answer: D
Rationale: The most effective way to assist a client with a fear of people and open places is through gradual desensitization by controlled exposure to the situation which is feared (D). This method helps the client confront their fears in a safe and supportive manner, allowing them to gradually build confidence and reduce anxiety. Planning an outing within the second week of admission (A) may be too soon and overwhelming for the client. Distracting the client whenever they express discomfort (B) does not address the underlying issue and may promote denial. Confronting the client's fears and discussing possible causes (C) could be too aggressive initially and may not be well-tolerated by the client.
3. When teaching an adolescent with type 1 diabetes about dietary management, what should the nurse include?
- A. Meals should be eaten at home.
- B. Foods should be weighed using a gram scale.
- C. A ready source of glucose should be available.
- D. Specific foods should be cooked for the adolescent.
Correct answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: A ready source of glucose should be available. When managing type 1 diabetes, it is crucial to have a quick source of glucose readily available in case of hypoglycemia. This ensures that the adolescent can quickly raise their blood sugar levels to prevent complications. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect as they do not address the immediate need for glucose in managing hypoglycemia. While it is important for meals to be consumed regularly and in a controlled manner, specifying that they should be eaten at home or foods weighed using a gram scale is not as critical as ensuring a quick source of glucose in emergency situations.
4. The PN notes that a UAP is ambulating a male client who had a stroke and has right-sided weakness. The UAP is walking on the client's left side. Which action should the PN take?
- A. Instruct the UAP to walk on the client's affected side
- B. Take over the ambulation and provide guidance to the UAP immediately
- C. Provide the client with an assistive device, such as a cane or walker
- D. Tell the UAP to take the client back to his room
Correct answer: A
Rationale: The correct action for the PN to take is to instruct the UAP to walk on the client’s affected side. This is essential to provide the necessary support and prevent falls, especially when the client has weakness on one side due to a stroke. Walking on the affected side helps provide stability and assistance to the weaker side. Choice B is incorrect because it would be more appropriate for the PN to provide immediate guidance and correct the UAP's positioning rather than taking over the task completely. Choice C is incorrect because while assistive devices may be beneficial, the immediate concern is the UAP's positioning during ambulation, not providing the client with an assistive device. Choice D is incorrect as there is no indication to return the client to his room unless it is necessary for his safety or well-being.
5. A client with a diagnosis of bipolar disorder is prescribed quetiapine. The nurse should monitor for which potential adverse effect?
- A. Weight gain
- B. Hair loss
- C. Insomnia
- D. Tremors
Correct answer: A
Rationale: When a client with bipolar disorder is prescribed quetiapine, the nurse should monitor for weight gain as a potential adverse effect. Quetiapine is known to commonly cause weight gain, which can have implications for the client's overall health. Regular monitoring of weight can help in early detection and management of this side effect.