HESI RN
Pharmacology HESI Questions
Question 1 of 5
A client with a prescription to take theophylline (Theo-24) daily has been given medication instructions by the nurse. The nurse determines that the client needs further information about the medication if the client states that he or she will:
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B. Taking theophylline at bedtime is inappropriate because it can cause insomnia. The medication should be taken early in the morning to avoid disrupting sleep patterns. It is important to follow the healthcare provider's instructions regarding the timing of the medication to achieve optimal therapeutic effects.
Question 2 of 5
Mycophenolate mofetil (CellCept) is prescribed for a client as prophylaxis for organ rejection following an allogeneic renal transplant. Which of the following instructions does the nurse reinforce regarding administration of this medication?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: In this scenario, the correct instruction for the nurse to reinforce regarding the administration of mycophenolate mofetil (CellCept) is to instruct the client to contact the healthcare provider if a sore throat occurs. The rationale behind this instruction is that mycophenolate mofetil is an immunosuppressant medication commonly used to prevent organ rejection following transplantation. It works by suppressing the immune system to prevent it from attacking the transplanted organ. Sore throat can be a sign of a potential infection, which can be serious in an individual with a compromised immune system. Therefore, prompt notification of the healthcare provider is crucial for early intervention and management. Regarding the other options: - A) Administering on an empty stomach is not a requirement for mycophenolate mofetil administration. - B) Taking the medication with a calcium-type antacid is not recommended as it can interfere with the absorption of mycophenolate mofetil. - C) Opening the capsule and mixing with food is not advised as it may alter the drug's effectiveness or cause gastrointestinal irritation. In an educational context, understanding the rationale behind specific medication instructions is crucial for nurses to provide safe and effective care to patients. By knowing the correct administration guidelines and potential side effects of medications like mycophenolate mofetil, nurses can help prevent complications and ensure the best outcomes for their patients.
Question 3 of 5
A client is receiving morphine sulfate subcutaneously for pain. Because morphine sulfate has been prescribed for this client, which nursing action would be included in the plan of care?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Morphine sulfate suppresses the cough reflex, which can lead to the retention of secretions in the lungs. Encouraging the client to cough and deep breathe helps prevent pneumonia by clearing the airways of any accumulated secretions. This intervention is crucial in clients receiving morphine sulfate to maintain optimal respiratory function.
Question 4 of 5
A client with trigeminal neuralgia tells the nurse that acetaminophen (Tylenol) is taken on a frequent daily basis for relief of generalized discomfort. The nurse reviews the client's laboratory results and determines that which of the following indicates toxicity associated with the medication?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: In this scenario, the correct answer is D) A direct bilirubin level of 2 mg/dL. Acetaminophen (Tylenol) toxicity primarily affects the liver. The direct bilirubin level is indicative of liver function, and an elevated level suggests liver damage, which can be caused by acetaminophen overdose. Option A) Sodium of 140 mEq/L is within the normal range and is not directly related to acetaminophen toxicity. Option B) Prothrombin time of 12 seconds is also within the normal range and is not a specific marker for acetaminophen toxicity. Option C) Platelet count of 400,000 cells/mm³ is within the normal range and not typically affected by acetaminophen toxicity. Educationally, understanding the markers of acetaminophen toxicity is crucial for healthcare professionals to ensure safe medication administration and monitoring. Teaching students to recognize the signs of acetaminophen overdose, such as elevated bilirubin levels, can help prevent adverse outcomes for patients. It is important to emphasize the significance of monitoring liver function tests in patients taking acetaminophen regularly to prevent toxicity.
Question 5 of 5
A healthcare professional prepares to reinforce instructions to a client who is taking allopurinol (Zyloprim). The healthcare professional plans to include which of the following in the instructions?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Allopurinol is an antigout medication that works by reducing the production of uric acid in the body. To prevent kidney stones and promote the excretion of uric acid, increased fluid intake is essential. Instructing the client to drink 3000 mL of fluid per day helps to reduce the risk of kidney stones and assists in the elimination of uric acid, thereby enhancing the effectiveness of allopurinol therapy.