HESI LPN
Pharmacology HESI 55 Questions 2023 Questions
Question 1 of 5
A client with a diagnosis of generalized anxiety disorder is prescribed paroxetine. The nurse should instruct the client that this medication may have which potential side effect?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Drowsiness. Paroxetine, used for generalized anxiety disorder, can cause drowsiness. Clients should be advised not to drive or operate heavy machinery until they know how the medication affects them. Dry mouth, nausea, and headache are potential side effects of other medications but are not commonly associated with paroxetine.
Question 2 of 5
A client with rheumatoid arthritis is prescribed hydroxychloroquine. What instruction should the nurse include in the client's teaching plan?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: In this scenario, the correct answer is D) Report any signs of vision changes to the healthcare provider. This instruction is crucial because hydroxychloroquine, commonly used in rheumatoid arthritis, can have potential ocular side effects, such as retinopathy. Regular ophthalmologic evaluations are necessary to monitor for these changes and prevent permanent vision damage. Option A (Avoid sunlight exposure while taking this medication) is incorrect for hydroxychloroquine. While photosensitivity can occur with some medications, it is not a significant concern with this drug. Option B (Take this medication with food to reduce gastrointestinal upset) is not directly related to hydroxychloroquine's specific side effects or administration requirements. It is a general instruction for some medications but not for hydroxychloroquine. Option C (Report any signs of infection to the healthcare provider) is important in general, but it is not directly related to hydroxychloroquine specifically. Patients with rheumatoid arthritis are at an increased risk of infections due to their condition and immunosuppressive medications, but this is not a direct effect of hydroxychloroquine. Educationally, this question highlights the importance of medication-specific teaching points for patients. It underscores the need for nurses to provide detailed and accurate information to ensure patient safety and adherence to treatment plans. Understanding the rationale behind each answer option enhances a nurse's ability to educate patients effectively and promote optimal outcomes.
Question 3 of 5
A client with a history of atrial fibrillation is prescribed amiodarone. The nurse should monitor for which potential side effect?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Rationale: The correct answer is A) Pulmonary toxicity. Amiodarone is known to cause pulmonary toxicity, which can manifest as pulmonary fibrosis, pneumonitis, or acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). Monitoring for signs such as cough, dyspnea, and crackles on lung auscultation is crucial as early detection can prevent severe respiratory complications. Option B) Liver toxicity is a potential side effect of amiodarone, but pulmonary toxicity is more common and requires closer monitoring due to its serious implications. Option C) Thyroid dysfunction is another side effect of amiodarone, particularly hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism, but it is not the most immediate concern compared to pulmonary toxicity in this scenario. Option D) Bradycardia is not a common side effect of amiodarone; in fact, it is more likely to cause bradycardia than tachycardia. Educational Context: Understanding the potential side effects of medications is crucial for nurses to provide safe and effective care. In the case of amiodarone, being vigilant for pulmonary toxicity is essential due to its serious consequences. Nurses should educate patients on the signs and symptoms to report and collaborate with healthcare providers to ensure timely interventions if adverse effects occur. Regular monitoring and assessment are key components of safe medication administration and patient care in pharmacology.
Question 4 of 5
A client with diabetes mellitus type 2 is prescribed dapagliflozin. The nurse should monitor for which potential adverse effect?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Dapagliflozin, a medication used in diabetes mellitus type 2, is associated with an increased risk of genital infections. This risk is due to its mechanism of action that involves promoting the excretion of glucose through the urine, creating a favorable environment for microbial growth in the genital area. Therefore, monitoring for genital infections is essential when a client is prescribed dapagliflozin.
Question 5 of 5
A client with type 2 diabetes mellitus is prescribed exenatide. The nurse should monitor for which potential adverse effect?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Exenatide, a medication commonly used in type 2 diabetes, is known to cause gastrointestinal side effects, such as nausea. Monitoring for nausea is essential as it can lead to decreased appetite and potential weight loss, affecting the nutritional status of the client. While hypoglycemia and hyperglycemia are important to monitor in diabetes management, they are not typically associated with exenatide use. Pancreatitis is a rare but serious adverse effect of exenatide, which requires immediate medical attention if suspected.