HESI LPN
HESI Practice Test Pharmacology Questions
Question 1 of 5
A client with hypertension is prescribed hydrochlorothiazide. The nurse should monitor the client for which potential side effect?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: In this scenario, the correct answer is B) Hypokalemia. Hydrochlorothiazide is a diuretic that works by increasing the excretion of water and electrolytes like sodium and potassium from the body. Hypokalemia is a common side effect of thiazide diuretics like hydrochlorothiazide due to the excessive loss of potassium in the urine. Hyperkalemia (option A) is unlikely because hydrochlorothiazide typically leads to potassium loss, not retention. Hypernatremia (option C) and hyponatremia (option D) are related to disturbances in sodium levels, which can occur with other medications but are not the primary concern with hydrochlorothiazide use. Educationally, understanding the side effects of specific drug classes is crucial for nurses to provide safe and effective care. Monitoring for potential side effects allows for early detection and intervention to prevent complications in patients. In the case of hydrochlorothiazide, being vigilant for signs of hypokalemia is essential to prevent adverse outcomes in individuals with hypertension.
Question 2 of 5
A client with a history of deep vein thrombosis is prescribed enoxaparin. The nurse should monitor for which potential adverse effect?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Enoxaparin is an anticoagulant that works by preventing blood clots. One of the potential adverse effects of enoxaparin is an increased risk of bleeding due to its anticoagulant properties. Therefore, the nurse should monitor the client for signs of bleeding, such as easy bruising, petechiae, or blood in stool or urine, to ensure timely intervention and prevent complications.
Question 3 of 5
A client with a diagnosis of bipolar disorder is prescribed lamotrigine. The nurse should monitor for which potential adverse effect?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: In the case of a client with bipolar disorder prescribed lamotrigine, monitoring for a rash is crucial due to the risk of a severe skin reaction called Stevens-Johnson syndrome. This life-threatening condition can occur with lamotrigine use, especially during the first few months of treatment. Therefore, identifying and addressing a rash promptly is essential to prevent serious complications. The incorrect options (B) Tremors, (C) Hair loss, and (D) Weight gain are not typically associated with lamotrigine use. Tremors are more commonly linked to medications like lithium or antipsychotics. Hair loss is not a known adverse effect of lamotrigine. Weight gain is a side effect seen with some other psychiatric medications like certain atypical antipsychotics, but not commonly with lamotrigine. Educationally, understanding the potential adverse effects of psychotropic medications is crucial for nurses caring for clients with mental health conditions. This knowledge allows for early recognition of side effects, appropriate monitoring, and timely interventions to ensure client safety and optimal treatment outcomes.
Question 4 of 5
A client with diabetes mellitus type 2 is prescribed sitagliptin. The nurse should monitor for which potential adverse effect?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Corrected Rationale: Sitagliptin, a dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP-4) inhibitor used in type 2 diabetes, has been associated with rare cases of pancreatitis. Therefore, the nurse should monitor for signs and symptoms of pancreatitis such as severe abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting. While hypoglycemia is a potential adverse effect of some diabetes medications, it is less common with sitagliptin. Hyperglycemia is the condition being treated and is not an expected adverse effect of sitagliptin.
Question 5 of 5
A client with hypertension is prescribed clonidine. The nurse should monitor for which potential side effect?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: In this scenario, the correct answer is A) Bradycardia. Clonidine is a centrally acting alpha-2 adrenergic agonist commonly used to treat hypertension. One of the known side effects of clonidine is bradycardia, which is a decrease in heart rate. This occurs due to the drug's mechanism of action in reducing sympathetic outflow from the central nervous system, leading to a decrease in heart rate. Option B) Tachycardia is incorrect because clonidine typically causes a decrease in heart rate rather than an increase. Option C) Dizziness is a common side effect of clonidine due to its effects on the central nervous system, but it is not as specific as bradycardia for this medication. Option D) Hyperglycemia is not a common side effect associated with clonidine use. Educationally, understanding the side effects of medications is crucial for nurses to provide safe and effective care to patients. Monitoring for potential side effects allows for early recognition and intervention, promoting positive patient outcomes. In the case of clonidine, being aware of the risk of bradycardia helps nurses to promptly address any cardiovascular changes in patients receiving this medication for hypertension management.