HESI RN
Pharmacology HESI
1. Salicylic acid is prescribed for a client with a diagnosis of psoriasis. The nurse monitors the client, knowing that which of the following would indicate the presence of systemic toxicity from this medication?
- A. Tinnitus
- B. Diarrhea
- C. Constipation
- D. Decreased respirations
Correct answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Tinnitus. Salicylic acid can lead to systemic toxicity, known as salicylism, which may manifest with symptoms like tinnitus, dizziness, hyperventilation, and mental disturbances. Tinnitus is a common early sign of salicylism and should be monitored closely by the nurse to prevent further complications.
2. Oral iron supplements are prescribed for a 6-year-old child with iron deficiency anemia. The nurse instructs the mother to administer the iron with which of the following food items?
- A. Milk
- B. Water
- C. Apple juice
- D. Orange juice
Correct answer: D
Rationale: Iron absorption is enhanced by the presence of vitamin C. Orange juice is a good source of vitamin C, which can improve the absorption of iron when taken together. Therefore, administering iron supplements with orange juice is the best choice to optimize iron absorption for the child.
3. A client is taking propranolol (Inderal LA). Which data collection finding would indicate a potential serious complication associated with propranolol?
- A. The development of complaints of insomnia
- B. The development of audible expiratory wheezes
- C. A baseline blood pressure of 150/80 mm Hg followed by a blood pressure of 138/72 mm Hg after two doses of the medication
- D. A baseline resting heart rate of 88 beats/min followed by a resting heart rate of 72 beats/min after two doses of the medication
Correct answer: B
Rationale: The development of audible expiratory wheezes may indicate a serious adverse reaction, bronchospasm, associated with propranolol. Beta-blockers can trigger bronchospasm, especially in clients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease or asthma. This complication can lead to significant respiratory distress and should be addressed promptly to prevent further complications.
4. A client with a history of chronic heart failure is prescribed spironolactone (Aldactone). Which of the following statements indicates that the client understands the medication teaching?
- A. I will avoid potassium-rich foods.
- B. I will not use a salt substitute.
- C. I will monitor my weight daily.
- D. I will increase my fluid intake as prescribed.
Correct answer: A
Rationale: The correct statement is 'I will avoid potassium-rich foods.' Spironolactone (Aldactone) is a potassium-sparing diuretic, which can lead to hyperkalemia if potassium intake is not regulated. Therefore, avoiding potassium-rich foods is crucial to prevent this complication. Using a salt substitute can also increase potassium levels. Monitoring weight daily is essential in heart failure management, but it is not specific to spironolactone. Increasing fluid intake as prescribed is generally recommended for heart failure management but is not directly related to spironolactone use.
5. The healthcare provider is applying a topical corticosteroid to a client with eczema. The healthcare provider should monitor for the potential of increased systemic absorption of the medication if the medication were being applied to which of the following body areas?
- A. Back
- B. Axilla
- C. Soles of the feet
- D. Palms of the hands
Correct answer: B
Rationale: The axilla has thinner skin, making it more permeable to topical medications. Areas with thinner skin, like the axilla, allow for higher systemic absorption of topical corticosteroids.
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