HESI LPN
HESI Practice Test Pharmacology
1. Phenazopyridine is commonly prescribed for clients with urinary tract infections (UTI). Which statement by the practical nurse describes the purpose for the administration of phenazopyridine?
- A. To alter the pH level of the urine
- B. To reduce the frequency of bladder spasms
- C. To alleviate the painful symptoms caused by the UTI
- D. To prevent bacterial replication and resistance development
Correct answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C. Phenazopyridine, a urinary analgesic, is utilized to alleviate the pain associated with urinary tract infections (UTIs) like burning, pain, urgency, and frequent voiding. The administration of phenazopyridine can cause the urine to turn a bright red-orange color. It is recommended to take this medication with food to reduce gastric irritation. Phenazopyridine should only be used for a maximum of 2 days when taken alongside an antibacterial agent, which is typically prescribed for about 2 weeks to treat the underlying infection.
2. A home health care nurse observes that a client with Parkinson's syndrome is experiencing increased tremors and difficulty in movement. What should the nurse do in response to this finding?
- A. Report the observed finding to the healthcare provider right away
- B. Arrange a medical evaluation so the medication dose can be adjusted
- C. Schedule a return home visit in 2 weeks to monitor
- D. Explain that this is an expected progression of Parkinson's
Correct answer: B
Rationale: In a client with Parkinson's syndrome experiencing increased tremors and movement difficulty, arranging a medical evaluation is crucial to adjust the medication dose. This proactive approach helps in managing the symptoms effectively. Reporting the finding to the healthcare provider may delay necessary adjustments in treatment. Scheduling a return home visit in 2 weeks may not address the immediate need for medication adjustment. Explaining that the progression is expected without taking action does not address the client's worsening symptoms.
3. Prior to administering an oral dose of methylprednisolone, what is most important for the nurse to do?
- A. Administer the medication with a glass of milk
- B. Notify the healthcare provider of the finding
- C. Begin tapering the drug dose per protocol
- D. Teach the clients about foods high in calcium
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Administering methylprednisolone with food or milk is important as it can help reduce gastrointestinal side effects associated with the medication. This practice is commonly recommended to minimize stomach upset and irritation that may occur when taking methylprednisolone on an empty stomach. Therefore, it is crucial for the nurse to provide the medication with a glass of milk to enhance patient comfort and adherence to the treatment regimen. Choice B is incorrect as there is no indication in the question stem that suggests a need to notify the healthcare provider before administering the medication with food or milk. Choice C is incorrect because tapering the drug dose per protocol is not the immediate action needed prior to administering the first dose of methylprednisolone. Choice D is irrelevant to the administration of methylprednisolone and not the most important action to take before giving the medication.
4. A client with a history of atrial fibrillation is prescribed warfarin. The nurse should monitor for which sign of potential bleeding?
- A. Elevated blood pressure
- B. Bruising
- C. Shortness of breath
- D. Nausea and vomiting
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Warfarin is an anticoagulant that increases the risk of bleeding. Bruising is a common sign of potential bleeding in clients taking warfarin. Monitoring for bruising is essential as it can indicate a risk of bleeding that needs further assessment and management. Elevated blood pressure, shortness of breath, nausea, and vomiting are not direct signs of potential bleeding associated with warfarin therapy.
5. A client with chronic kidney disease is prescribed cinacalcet. The nurse should monitor for which potential side effect?
- A. Hypocalcemia
- B. Hypercalcemia
- C. Hyperkalemia
- D. Hyperphosphatemia
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Corrected Rationale: Cinacalcet is a medication that can lower calcium levels, leading to hypocalcemia. Monitoring for signs of low calcium levels such as muscle cramps, tingling sensations, and abnormal heart rhythms is crucial to prevent complications in clients with chronic kidney disease.\nIncorrect Choices Rationale: B) Hypercalcemia is the opposite effect of cinacalcet; C) Hyperkalemia and D) Hyperphosphatemia are not typically associated with cinacalcet use.
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