HESI LPN
Pharmacology HESI 55 Questions 2023
1. The healthcare provider is assessing the effectiveness of the drug amiodarone. Which client statement best indicates that the drug has been effective?
- A. I have not had as many spells of angina.
- B. I have not had as much swelling in my ankles lately.
- C. My doctor told me my cholesterol levels were improving with each visit.
- D. I do not notice as many irregular heartbeats as before I started taking this medication.
Correct answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is option D. The effectiveness of amiodarone is best assessed by a reduction in irregular heartbeats since it is primarily used to treat ventricular dysrhythmias. This drug's main purpose is to control irregular heart rhythms, so a decrease in irregular heartbeats indicates its effectiveness. Options A, B, and C are incorrect because amiodarone is not primarily used to address angina, ankle swelling, or cholesterol levels, so improvements in these areas do not directly reflect the drug's effectiveness.
2. A client with a diagnosis of schizophrenia is prescribed aripiprazole. The nurse should monitor the client for which potential side effect?
- A. Weight gain
- B. Dry mouth
- C. Headache
- D. Increased appetite
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Aripiprazole is known to cause weight gain in patients, so monitoring for changes in weight is essential to assess for this potential side effect and intervene accordingly.
3. A client with a productive cough and fever has been diagnosed with bacterial pneumonia and is being admitted to the unit from the emergency room. Which intervention should the practical nurse ensure has been done prior to the administration of antibiotics?
- A. Sputum specimen
- B. Set of vital signs
- C. Electrocardiogram
- D. Glucometer check
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Before initiating antibiotic therapy in a client with bacterial pneumonia, obtaining a sputum specimen for culture and sensitivity is essential. This helps identify the specific bacteria causing the infection and guides the selection of the most effective antibiotic treatment.
4. A client with diabetes mellitus type 2 is prescribed metformin. What instruction should the nurse include in the client's teaching plan?
- A. Take this medication with meals.
- B. Avoid alcohol while taking this medication.
- C. Take this medication on an empty stomach.
- D. Report any signs of lactic acidosis to the healthcare provider.
Correct answer: A
Rationale: The correct instruction for a client prescribed metformin is to take the medication with meals. Taking metformin with meals helps to minimize gastrointestinal side effects, which are common with this medication. Choice B, avoiding alcohol, is a good practice due to the increased risk of lactic acidosis when alcohol is consumed with metformin; however, it is not the priority teaching point in this scenario. Taking metformin on an empty stomach (Choice C) is incorrect because it can increase the risk of gastrointestinal side effects. Reporting signs of lactic acidosis (Choice D) is important, but it is more related to monitoring for adverse effects rather than a primary teaching point for administration.
5. A client is prescribed phenobarbital 100 mg daily for the treatment of seizures. Which statement made by the client indicates an accurate understanding of the medication phenobarbital?
- A. I will take my medicine at 10 PM before retiring to bed.
- B. The medication will turn the color of my urine to a pink color.
- C. I should not eat or drink anything for at least 2 hours before taking my medicine.
- D. In the event a seizure occurs in the middle of the day, I need to take an extra dose of my medicine.
Correct answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A. Phenobarbital should be taken at the same time every day to maintain blood levels and enhance compliance. Common side effects of phenobarbital include drowsiness, lethargy, dizziness, and nausea; therefore, it is best to take it before bedtime to minimize these effects and improve sleep quality. Choice B is incorrect because phenobarbital does not affect the color of urine. Choice C is incorrect because there is no need to fast before taking phenobarbital. Choice D is incorrect because taking extra doses without healthcare provider guidance can lead to overdose and adverse effects.
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