a nurse is caring for a client receiving meperidine demerol for pain management which assessment finding requires immediate action
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Nursing Elites

HESI RN

HESI Pharmacology Practice Exam

1. A client is receiving meperidine (Demerol) for pain management. Which assessment finding requires immediate action?

Correct answer: C

Rationale: A respiratory rate of 10 breaths per minute indicates respiratory depression, a severe side effect of meperidine (Demerol) that necessitates immediate intervention to prevent further complications. Constipation, drowsiness, and nausea are common but less urgent side effects that do not pose an immediate life-threatening risk. Respiratory depression can lead to respiratory arrest and must be addressed promptly to ensure the client's safety and well-being.

2. The client with ovarian cancer is being treated with vincristine (Oncovin). The nurse monitors the client, knowing that which of the following indicates a side effect specific to this medication?

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: Numbness and tingling in the fingers and toes. Vincristine is known to cause peripheral neuropathy as a side effect, resulting in numbness and tingling in the fingers and toes. Diarrhea, hair loss, and chest pain are not typically associated with vincristine use.

3. A client is prescribed calcium gluconate after thyroidectomy. The medication is most likely prescribed to:

Correct answer: C

Rationale: After a thyroidectomy, the parathyroid glands can be inadvertently removed or damaged, leading to a decrease in calcium levels and potentially causing hypocalcemic tetany. Calcium gluconate is given to supplement calcium levels and prevent or treat hypocalcemia-related symptoms, such as muscle spasms and tetany.

4. A client is to begin a 6-month course of therapy with isoniazid (INH). A nurse plans to teach the client to:

Correct answer: B

Rationale: When a client is on isoniazid (INH) therapy, they should be instructed to report any signs of hepatitis, such as yellowing of the eyes or skin, immediately. Alcohol consumption should be avoided during INH therapy due to the risk of hepatotoxicity. Foods high in tyramine, such as Swiss or aged cheeses, should also be avoided to prevent adverse reactions. Additionally, while on INH therapy, it is essential to avoid vitamin supplements containing pyridoxine (vitamin B6) to prevent potential interactions.

5. A client with type 2 diabetes mellitus is prescribed metformin (Glucophage). Which instruction should the nurse include in the teaching plan?

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Clients taking metformin (Glucophage) should avoid alcohol as it can increase the risk of lactic acidosis. Metformin should be taken with meals to reduce gastrointestinal upset. While hypoglycemia is less common with metformin compared to other diabetes medications, clients should still be aware of its symptoms.

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