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. A histamine (H2)-receptor antagonist will be prescribed for a client. The nurse understands that which medications are H2-receptor antagonists? Select one that doesn't apply.
- A. Nizatidine (Axid)
- B. Ranitidine (Zantac)
- C. Famotidine (Pepcid)
- D. Ibuprofen (Motrin)
Correct answer: D
Rationale: H2-receptor antagonists like Nizatidine, Ranitidine, and Famotidine are used to suppress gastric acid secretion, relieve heartburn symptoms, and prevent complications of peptic ulcer disease. Ibuprofen, on the other hand, is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) commonly used for pain relief and inflammation, but it is not an H2-receptor antagonist. It is essential to differentiate between these medication classes to ensure appropriate treatment for gastrointestinal conditions.
4. A client with diabetes mellitus is prescribed Humulin NPH insulin. The client asks the nurse how to store unopened vials of insulin. The nurse instructs the client to:
- A. Freeze the insulin.
- B. Refrigerate the insulin.
- C. Store the insulin in a dark, dry place.
- D. Keep the insulin at room temperature.
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Unopened vials of insulin should be stored in the refrigerator until needed. Freezing insulin can damage it, affecting its efficacy. Storing insulin in a dark, dry place or at room temperature is not recommended as it can lead to degradation of the insulin. Refrigeration helps maintain the stability and effectiveness of insulin.
5. A client is receiving sulfisoxazole. Which of the following should be included in the list of instructions?
- A. Restrict fluid intake.
- B. Maintain a high fluid intake.
- C. If the urine turns dark brown, call the healthcare provider (HCP) immediately.
- D. Decrease the dosage when symptoms are improving to prevent an allergic response.
Correct answer: B
Rationale: When a client is taking sulfisoxazole, it is important to maintain a high fluid intake. Each dose of sulfisoxazole should be taken with a full glass of water, as the medication is more soluble in alkaline urine. Restricting fluid intake is not recommended as it can lead to inadequate hydration. Dark brown urine may be a side effect of some forms of sulfisoxazole but does not necessarily warrant immediate notification of the healthcare provider unless accompanied by other concerning symptoms. Decreasing the dosage when symptoms improve is not advised as it may lead to treatment failure or the development of resistance.
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