HESI RN
HESI Pharmacology Practice Exam
1. Colcrys (colchicine) is prescribed for a client with a diagnosis of gout. The nurse reviews the client's medical history in the health record, knowing that the medication would be contraindicated in which disorder?
- A. Myxedema
- B. Renal failure
- C. Hypothyroidism
- D. Diabetes mellitus
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Colchicine is contraindicated in clients with severe gastrointestinal, renal, hepatic, or cardiac disorders, or blood dyscrasias. Renal failure is a condition where the kidneys fail to function adequately, leading to the accumulation of toxins in the body. Since colchicine is contraindicated in clients with renal disorders, including renal failure, it could exacerbate the condition and worsen the client's health. Myxedema, hypothyroidism, and diabetes mellitus are not contraindications for colchicine use. While these conditions may require caution or monitoring when administering colchicine, they are not absolute contraindications like renal failure.
2. 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.
3. Before administering Methylergonovine (Methergine) to a client with postpartum hemorrhage caused by uterine atony, the nurse checks which of the following as the important client parameter?
- A. Temperature
- B. Lochial flow
- C. Urine output
- D. Blood pressure
Correct answer: D
Rationale: Methylergonovine (Methergine) acts by stimulating uterine contractions and causing vasoconstriction. As vasoconstriction can potentially impact blood pressure, it is crucial to check the client's blood pressure before administering Methylergonovine to monitor for any hypertensive effects.
4. A client is prescribed atorvastatin (Lipitor) for hyperlipidemia. Which instruction should the nurse include in the teaching plan?
- A. Take the medication in the morning.
- B. Avoid consuming grapefruit juice.
- C. Increase intake of dairy products.
- D. Take the medication with food.
Correct answer: B
Rationale: The correct instruction for the nurse to include in the teaching plan is to advise the client to avoid consuming grapefruit juice. Grapefruit juice can increase the risk of atorvastatin (Lipitor) toxicity by inhibiting its metabolism. Atorvastatin is typically taken in the evening because cholesterol synthesis occurs at night. Increasing dairy intake is not specifically recommended for atorvastatin use, and the medication can be taken with or without food.
5. A client is receiving meperidine (Demerol) 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 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.
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