HESI RN
HESI Pharmacology Practice Exam
1. Meperidine hydrochloride (Demerol) is prescribed for a client with pain. Which of the following would the nurse monitor for as a side effect of this medication?
- A. Diarrhea
- B. Bradycardia
- C. Hypertension
- D. Urinary retention
Correct answer: D
Rationale: Meperidine hydrochloride (Demerol) is an opioid analgesic that can cause various side effects. Common side effects include respiratory depression, orthostatic hypotension, tachycardia, drowsiness, constipation, and urinary retention. Diarrhea is not a common side effect of Meperidine hydrochloride. Bradycardia and hypertension are not typically associated with this medication. Therefore, the nurse should monitor for urinary retention as a potential side effect of Meperidine hydrochloride.
2. 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.
3. What instruction should be included in the client's teaching plan when prescribed montelukast (Singulair) for asthma?
- A. Take the medication as needed for asthma attacks.
- B. Take the medication in the evening.
- C. Increase fluid intake while taking this medication.
- D. Use the medication before exercise.
Correct answer: B
Rationale: The correct instruction to include in the teaching plan for a client prescribed montelukast (Singulair) is to take the medication in the evening. Montelukast is most effective when taken in the evening to provide optimal control of asthma symptoms. It is not intended for use as a rescue medication for asthma attacks. There is no specific recommendation to increase fluid intake or use the medication before exercise in relation to montelukast therapy.
4. A client with angina pectoris is experiencing chest pain that radiates down the left arm. The nurse administers a sublingual nitroglycerin tablet to the client. The client's pain is unrelieved, and the nurse determines that the client needs another nitroglycerin tablet. Which of the following vital signs is most important for the nurse to check before administering the medication?
- A. Temperature
- B. Respirations
- C. Blood pressure
- D. Radial pulse rate
Correct answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is checking the client's blood pressure (C) before administering another nitroglycerin tablet. Nitroglycerin can cause hypotension, and monitoring blood pressure is crucial to prevent a sudden drop in blood pressure, especially when giving another dose of nitroglycerin.
5. A client is receiving desmopressin acetate (DDAVP), and a healthcare provider is monitoring for adverse effects. Which of the following indicates the presence of an adverse effect?
- A. Insomnia
- B. Drowsiness
- C. Weight loss
- D. Increased urination
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Drowsiness can be a sign of water intoxication or hyponatremia, which are potential adverse effects of desmopressin acetate (DDAVP). It is crucial to monitor for this symptom and promptly address it to prevent complications.
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