HESI RN
HESI Pharmacology Quizlet Questions
Question 1 of 5
A healthcare provider has written a prescription for ranitidine (Zantac), once daily. When should the nurse schedule the medication?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: In this scenario, the correct answer is A) At bedtime. Ranitidine is a histamine-2 blocker commonly prescribed for conditions like gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and peptic ulcers. The optimal time for administering ranitidine is at bedtime because it helps in reducing nocturnal acid secretion and provides the best acid suppression during the night when gastric acid production is at its peak. Option B) After lunch is incorrect because the timing does not coincide with the physiological need for acid suppression, which is more crucial during the night. Option C) With supper is incorrect as well because taking ranitidine with supper may not provide adequate acid suppression during the night when it is most needed. Option D) Before breakfast is also incorrect as it does not align with the goal of reducing nocturnal acid secretion, which is the primary purpose of prescribing ranitidine. Educationally, understanding the rationale behind the timing of medication administration is crucial for providing optimal patient care. It is essential for nurses to comprehend the pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of medications to ensure their therapeutic effectiveness. By grasping the appropriate timing of administration for drugs like ranitidine, nurses can contribute to improved patient outcomes and medication efficacy.
Question 2 of 5
A client presenting with complaints of not feeling well is seen in a clinic. The client is taking several medications for the control of heart disease and hypertension, including a beta-blocker, digoxin (Lanoxin), and a diuretic. A tentative diagnosis of digoxin toxicity is made. Which of the following assessment data would support this diagnosis?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C. Double vision, loss of appetite, and nausea are classic signs of digoxin toxicity. Other signs may include bradycardia, visual disturbances, and confusion. These symptoms are indicators that the client may be experiencing adverse effects due to elevated levels of digoxin in the system, requiring immediate medical attention to prevent serious complications.
Question 3 of 5
A client has been prescribed cyclosporine (Sandimmune). Which food item should the client avoid based on the medication's interaction?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Cyclosporine is a medication commonly used to prevent organ rejection in transplant patients by suppressing the immune system. The correct answer is C) Grapefruit juice because grapefruit and its juice contain compounds that inhibit the enzyme responsible for metabolizing cyclosporine in the liver. This interaction can lead to increased levels of cyclosporine in the blood, potentially causing toxicity. Option A) Red meats, option B) Orange juice, and option D) Green, leafy vegetables do not have significant interactions with cyclosporine. It is essential for healthcare providers to educate patients about potential drug-food interactions to ensure the medication's efficacy and prevent adverse effects. In pharmacology, understanding drug interactions, including those with food, is crucial for safe and effective patient care. By knowing which foods to avoid while taking specific medications, healthcare providers can help patients optimize their treatment outcomes and minimize potential risks.
Question 4 of 5
In a client with chronic renal failure receiving epoetin alfa (Epogen, Procrit), which laboratory result would indicate a therapeutic effect of the medication?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: A hematocrit of 32% indicates a therapeutic effect of epoetin alfa in a client with chronic renal failure. Epoetin alfa is used to treat anemia in these patients by stimulating red blood cell production, leading to an increase in the hematocrit level. Monitoring the hematocrit is essential to assess the response to epoetin alfa therapy.
Question 5 of 5
Carbamazepine (Tegretol) is prescribed for a client with a diagnosis of psychomotor seizures. The nurse reviews the client's health history, knowing that this medication is contraindicated if which of the following disorders is present?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Carbamazepine (Tegretol) is an antiepileptic drug commonly prescribed for seizures, including psychomotor seizures. The correct answer, option B) Liver disease, is contraindicated because carbamazepine is metabolized in the liver, and liver dysfunction can lead to drug toxicity due to impaired clearance. This can result in serious adverse effects, making it unsafe for individuals with liver disease to take this medication. Option A) Headaches is incorrect because carbamazepine can actually be used to treat certain types of headaches, such as trigeminal neuralgia. Option C) Hypothyroidism is incorrect as it is not a contraindication for carbamazepine use. However, carbamazepine can affect thyroid function tests and may require monitoring in individuals with thyroid conditions. Option D) Diabetes mellitus is also incorrect as it is not a contraindication for carbamazepine use. However, individuals with diabetes should be monitored closely as carbamazepine can interact with some diabetes medications. In an educational context, understanding contraindications for medications is crucial for safe and effective patient care. Nurses need to be knowledgeable about why certain conditions make specific medications unsafe to administer in order to prevent harm to patients. This knowledge also helps in identifying potential drug interactions and adverse effects, ensuring patient safety and optimal outcomes.