HESI RN
HESI Pharmacology Practice Exam
1. A client with chronic renal failure is receiving ferrous sulfate (Feosol). The nurse monitors the client for which common side effect associated with this medication?
- A. Diarrhea
- B. Weakness
- C. Headache
- D. Constipation
Correct answer: D
Rationale: Constipation is a common side effect of iron supplements such as ferrous sulfate. Iron can cause constipation by slowing down the movement of the digestive system and hardening the stool. Patients should be advised to increase their fluid intake, dietary fiber, and physical activity to help alleviate this side effect. Diarrhea (Choice A) is not a common side effect associated with ferrous sulfate. Weakness (Choice B) and headache (Choice C) are not typically linked to this medication.
2. A client is being taught about the use of nitroglycerin (Nitrostat) for angina. Which statement by the client indicates a need for further teaching?
- A. I will sit or lie down when I take the medication.
- B. I can take up to three tablets, 5 minutes apart, if needed.
- C. I will call 911 if my chest pain is not relieved after taking three tablets.
- D. I will keep the medication in its original dark container.
Correct answer: B
Rationale: The correct administration of nitroglycerin for angina is to take up to three tablets, 5 minutes apart. If the chest pain persists after the third tablet, emergency medical services should be called. Taking more than three tablets or reducing the time interval between doses may lead to hypotension and indicates a need for further teaching.
3. Atenolol hydrochloride (Tenormin) is prescribed for a hospitalized client. The nurse should perform which of the following as a priority action before administering the medication?
- A. Listen to the client's lung sounds.
- B. Check the client's blood pressure.
- C. Check the recent electrolyte levels.
- D. Assess the client for muscle weakness.
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Atenolol hydrochloride is a beta-blocker used to treat hypertension. Checking the client's blood pressure is crucial before administration.
4. A client is prescribed nitroglycerin (Nitro-Dur) transdermal patch for angina. Which instruction should the nurse include in the client's teaching plan?
- A. Apply the patch to a hairless area of skin.
- B. Leave the patch on for 24 hours.
- C. Apply the patch at the same time each day.
- D. You can keep the patch on while taking a shower.
Correct answer: C
Rationale: The correct instruction for the nurse to include in the client's teaching plan is to apply the nitroglycerin (Nitro-Dur) transdermal patch at the same time each day. This consistency helps maintain steady blood levels of the medication. While it is important to apply the patch to a hairless area of the skin for proper absorption, it does not necessarily have to be left on for 24 hours; typically, it is worn for 12-14 hours to allow for a nitrate-free period and reduce tolerance. Additionally, the patch can generally be kept on while taking a shower, as water exposure does not typically affect its efficacy.
5. A client is diagnosed with pulmonary embolism and is to be treated with streptokinase (Streptase). A nurse would report which priority data collection finding to the registered nurse before initiating this therapy?
- A. Adventitious breath sounds
- B. Temperature of 99.4°F orally
- C. Blood pressure of 198/110 mm Hg
- D. Respiratory rate of 28 breaths/min
Correct answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C. Streptokinase therapy is contraindicated in severe uncontrolled hypertension due to the risk of cerebral hemorrhage. A blood pressure of 198/110 mm Hg indicates severe hypertension, which needs to be addressed before initiating streptokinase to prevent potential complications.
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