HESI LPN
Pharmacology HESI 2023 Questions
Question 1 of 5
A client with epilepsy is prescribed lamotrigine. The nurse should monitor for which potential side effect?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: When a client is prescribed lamotrigine, the nurse should closely monitor for the potential side effect of skin rash. Lamotrigine is known to cause skin rashes, which can be mild or severe, indicating a serious adverse reaction like Stevens-Johnson syndrome. Monitoring for skin rash is crucial to detect any signs of severe allergic reactions early and prevent further complications.
Question 2 of 5
A client with severe depression is prescribed sertraline. Which statement by the client indicates the need for further teaching?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A. Clients should not stop taking sertraline abruptly once they feel better without consulting their healthcare provider. It is important to complete the full course of treatment as prescribed to prevent a relapse of symptoms. Stopping the medication suddenly can lead to withdrawal symptoms and may worsen the condition.
Question 3 of 5
A client with a history of atrial fibrillation is prescribed digoxin. The nurse should monitor for which sign of digoxin toxicity?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Bradycardia is a common sign of digoxin toxicity. Digoxin, a medication used to treat atrial fibrillation, can lead to toxicity manifesting as various cardiac dysrhythmias, with bradycardia being a notable indicator. Monitoring for bradycardia is crucial as it can indicate the need for dosage adjustment or discontinuation of digoxin to prevent adverse effects.
Question 4 of 5
A client with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is prescribed omeprazole. The nurse should reinforce which instruction?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct instruction for a client with GERD prescribed omeprazole is to take the medication in the morning before breakfast. Omeprazole works best when taken on an empty stomach, approximately 30 minutes before the first meal of the day. This timing maximizes its effectiveness in reducing stomach acid production and helps manage symptoms of GERD more efficiently.
Question 5 of 5
A client with diabetes mellitus type 1 is prescribed insulin glargine. When should the nurse instruct the client to administer this medication?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: In the context of diabetes mellitus type 1, insulin glargine is a long-acting basal insulin that provides a steady level of insulin over a 24-hour period. This makes it most effective when administered at bedtime. By instructing the client to administer insulin glargine at bedtime, the nurse ensures that the medication's peak action aligns with the body's natural overnight fasting state, helping to control blood glucose levels during this crucial period. Option A (Before meals) is incorrect because insulin glargine is not a rapid-acting insulin intended to cover mealtime blood sugar elevations. Option B (After meals) is also incorrect as insulin glargine is not meant to be taken in response to mealtime glucose spikes. Option D (In the morning) is not ideal as it may not provide adequate coverage during the night when blood glucose levels can fluctuate due to the lack of food intake. Educationally, understanding the timing and action of different types of insulin is crucial for managing diabetes effectively. By grasping the pharmacokinetics of insulin glargine, nurses can help clients achieve better glycemic control and reduce the risk of complications associated with diabetes. This knowledge empowers nurses to educate clients on the optimal use of their medications, leading to improved self-management and overall health outcomes.