HESI LPN
Pharmacology HESI 55 Questions 2023
1. A client with hypertension is prescribed lisinopril. The nurse should monitor the client for which potential side effect?
- A. Cough
- B. Dizziness
- C. Hyperkalemia
- D. Hyponatremia
Correct answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Cough. Lisinopril is known to cause a persistent dry cough as a side effect. It is essential for the nurse to monitor the client for this adverse reaction as it may lead to discontinuation of the medication. Dizziness, hyperkalemia, and hyponatremia are not typically associated with lisinopril use. Dizziness is more commonly seen with antihypertensives that cause orthostatic hypotension. Hyperkalemia and hyponatremia are not usually linked to lisinopril use.
2. What behavior is essential for preventing in a child postoperatively after undergoing heart surgery to repair defects associated with tetralogy of Fallot?
- A. Crying
- B. Coughing
- C. Straining at stool
- D. Unnecessary movement
Correct answer: C
Rationale: Preventing straining at stool is crucial postoperatively after heart surgery for tetralogy of Fallot to avoid increasing intrathoracic pressure and placing stress on the surgical site. This can help prevent complications and promote faster healing. While crying, coughing, and unnecessary movement are common postoperative behaviors, they are not specifically linked to worsening outcomes in this context. Straining at stool is particularly emphasized due to its potential to impact the surgical site and overall recovery process.
3. A male client with alcohol dependence is admitted for detoxification. The nurse knows that which assessment finding is indicative of alcohol withdrawal?
- A. Bradycardia
- B. Hypotension
- C. Tremors
- D. Hyperglycemia
Correct answer: C
Rationale: Tremors are a common sign of alcohol withdrawal. The central nervous system becomes hyperexcitable due to the suppression caused by chronic alcohol intake. Tremors are a manifestation of this hyperexcitability and are a key indicator of alcohol withdrawal. Bradycardia and hypotension are more commonly associated with conditions like shock or severe dehydration rather than alcohol withdrawal. Hyperglycemia is not a typical finding in alcohol withdrawal; instead, hypoglycemia is more commonly seen due to the effects of alcohol on glucose metabolism.
4. After instituting ordered measures to reduce the fever in a 3-year-old with fever and vomiting, what nursing action is most important for the nurse in the emergency department to take?
- A. Preventing shivering
- B. Restricting oral fluids
- C. Measuring output hourly
- D. Taking vital signs hourly
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Preventing shivering is crucial in this situation as it can increase the body temperature and counteract the effects of antipyretic measures aimed at reducing the fever. Shivering generates heat, potentially worsening the fever. Restricting oral fluids (Choice B) is not appropriate as fluid intake is important to prevent dehydration, especially in a child who has been vomiting. Measuring output hourly (Choice C) and taking vital signs hourly (Choice D) are important nursing actions but not as critical as preventing shivering in this scenario. Therefore, the most important nursing action is to prevent shivering to aid in fever reduction and management.
5. The mother of a 2 year-old hospitalized child asks the nurse's advice about the child's screaming every time the mother gets ready to leave the hospital room. What is the best response by the nurse?
- A. I think you or your partner needs to stay with the child while in the hospital.
- B. Oh, that behavior will stop in a few days.
- C. Keep in mind that for the age this is a normal response to being in the hospital.
- D. You might want to 'sneak out' of the room once the child falls asleep.
Correct answer: C
Rationale: The nurse should reassure the mother that the child's behavior is normal for their age and situation.