HESI RN
HESI Pharmacology Practice Exam
1. A client is receiving morphine sulfate for pain management. Which assessment finding requires immediate action?
- A. Constipation
- B. Drowsiness
- C. Respiratory rate of 10 breaths per minute
- D. Nausea
Correct answer: C
Rationale: A respiratory rate of 10 breaths per minute indicates respiratory depression, a serious side effect of morphine sulfate that can lead to respiratory compromise and requires immediate intervention. Constipation, drowsiness, and nausea are common side effects of morphine but are not immediately life-threatening compared to respiratory depression. Monitoring and addressing a low respiratory rate are crucial in preventing further respiratory distress or failure.
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?
- A. Diarrhea
- B. Hair loss
- C. Chest pain
- D. Numbness and tingling in the fingers and toes
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. Isosorbide mononitrate (Imdur) is prescribed for a client with angina pectoris. The client tells the nurse that the medication is causing a chronic headache. The nurse appropriately suggests that the client:
- A. Cut the dose in half.
- B. Discontinue the medication.
- C. Take the medication with food.
- D. Contact the healthcare provider (HCP).
Correct answer: C
Rationale: Isosorbide mononitrate can cause headaches, which usually disappear during continued therapy. Taking the medication with food or meals can help alleviate the headache. It is important to recommend this approach before considering dose adjustments or discontinuation of the medication. Contacting the healthcare provider would be necessary if the headache persists despite taking the medication with food.
4. Mafenide acetate (Sulfamylon) is prescribed for a client with a burn injury. When applying the medication, the client complains of local discomfort and burning. Which of the following is the most appropriate nursing action?
- A. Notifying the registered nurse
- B. Discontinuing the medication
- C. Informing the client that this is normal
- D. Applying a thinner film than prescribed to the burn site
Correct answer: C
Rationale: The correct action is to inform the client that local discomfort and burning are normal reactions to Mafenide acetate. This medication is used to treat burns by reducing bacteria in avascular tissues. Discontinuing the medication or applying a thinner film than prescribed is not necessary or recommended in this situation.
5. A client is being educated about the use of levodopa-carbidopa (Sinemet) for Parkinson's disease. Which statement by the client indicates a need for further teaching?
- A. I should avoid taking the medication with a high-protein meal.
- B. I may experience dizziness when getting up quickly.
- C. I might notice a darkening of my urine.
- D. I should report any uncontrolled movements to my healthcare provider.
Correct answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A. Levodopa-carbidopa (Sinemet) should not be taken with a high-protein meal as protein can interfere with the absorption of the medication. It is recommended to take it on an empty stomach or with a light meal. Choices B, C, and D are accurate statements regarding potential side effects and actions to take while on levodopa-carbidopa therapy, indicating a good understanding by the client.
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