HESI RN
Pharmacology HESI Quizlet
1. Why is prostaglandin E1 prescribed for a child with transposition of the great arteries?
- A. Prevents hypercyanotic (blue or tet) spells
- B. Maintains an adequate hormone level
- C. Maintains the position of the great arteries
- D. Provides adequate oxygen saturation and maintains cardiac output
Correct answer: D
Rationale: Prostaglandin E1 is prescribed for a child with transposition of the great arteries to increase blood mixing, which helps maintain adequate oxygen saturation and cardiac output. This medication does not prevent hypercyanotic spells, maintain hormone levels, or influence the position of the great arteries.
2. When reviewing laboratory results for a client receiving tacrolimus (Prograf), which laboratory result would indicate to the nurse that the client is experiencing an adverse effect of the medication?
- A. Blood glucose of 200 mg/dL
- B. Potassium level of 3.8 mEq/L
- C. Platelet count of 300,000 cells/mm³
- D. White blood cell count of 6000 cells/mm³
Correct answer: A
Rationale: An elevated blood glucose level of 200 mg/dL indicates an adverse effect of tacrolimus. This finding suggests hyperglycemia, which is a known adverse effect of the medication. Other potential adverse effects of tacrolimus include neurotoxicity and hypertension. Monitoring blood glucose levels is crucial to detect and manage this adverse effect promptly. Choices B, C, and D are not directly associated with adverse effects of tacrolimus. Potassium, platelet count, and white blood cell count are important parameters to monitor for other reasons but not specifically for detecting adverse effects of tacrolimus.
3. The nurse is designing a community health project based on a report provided by the World Health Organization that describes healthcare problems in the United States. Which healthcare issue should the nurse give the highest priority when planning the project?
- A. overuse of diagnostic technology
- B. government-based health insurance
- C. the neonatal and infant mortality rates
- D. number of people without access to healthcare
Correct answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D: number of people without access to healthcare. Ensuring access to healthcare is fundamental to addressing a wide range of health issues and is a priority for improving overall community health. Option A, overuse of diagnostic technology, though important, is not the highest priority when considering basic access to healthcare. Option B, government-based health insurance, is relevant but may not directly address the issue of lack of access for all individuals. Option C, neonatal and infant mortality rates, is crucial but addressing access to healthcare for all individuals is a more immediate and foundational concern for the community health project.
4. A client with a diagnosis of renal failure is receiving hemodialysis. Which assessment finding should the nurse report to the healthcare provider immediately?
- A. The client's blood pressure is 130/80 mm Hg.
- B. The client gains 1 kg in 24 hours.
- C. The client's potassium level is 5.5 mEq/L.
- D. The client's weight decreases by 0.5 kg in 24 hours.
Correct answer: C
Rationale: A potassium level of 5.5 mEq/L (C) is elevated and concerning in a client with renal failure receiving hemodialysis, as it can lead to life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias. Monitoring blood pressure (A), weight gain (B), and weight loss (D) are essential in clients on hemodialysis, but an elevated potassium level poses an immediate risk that requires prompt intervention.
5. To auscultate for a carotid bruit, where should the nurse place the stethoscope?
- A. Base of the neck on the right side
- B. Above the clavicle
- C. Over the sternum
- D. Over the trachea
Correct answer: A
Rationale: To auscultate for a carotid bruit, the nurse should place the stethoscope at the base of the neck, near the carotid artery. A carotid bruit is an abnormal sound that indicates turbulent blood flow in the carotid artery, potentially due to arterial narrowing or atherosclerosis. Placing the stethoscope above the clavicle, over the sternum, or over the trachea would not provide the nurse with the optimal location to assess for carotid artery abnormalities.