HESI LPN
Pharmacology HESI 2023 Quizlet Questions
Question 1 of 5
A practical nurse (PN) is preparing to administer a scheduled dose of furosemide to a client. Which laboratory value is most important for the PN to review before administering the medication?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: In pharmacology, understanding the importance of monitoring electrolyte levels when administering certain medications is crucial for safe patient care. In the case of furosemide, a loop diuretic, the most important laboratory value for a practical nurse (PN) to review before administration is the serum potassium level (Option B). Furosemide is known to cause potassium depletion (hypokalemia) as it increases the excretion of potassium in the urine. Hypokalemia can lead to serious cardiac arrhythmias and muscle weakness. Therefore, monitoring the serum potassium level is essential to prevent potential adverse effects and to determine if potassium supplementation is needed before administering furosemide. The other options, serum calcium level (Option A), serum sodium level (Option C), and serum magnesium level (Option D), are important electrolytes to monitor in certain situations but are not specifically associated with furosemide administration. Understanding the specific drug interactions and side effects of medications like furosemide is vital for healthcare providers to ensure patient safety and optimize therapeutic outcomes.
Question 2 of 5
Escitalopram is prescribed for a 16-year-old adolescent client who is clinically depressed. Five days later, the parent tells the practical nurse (PN) that the drug is not working because their child is not feeling any better. Which explanation should the PN provide?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Antidepressant medications typically require 1 to 4 weeks to reach their full therapeutic effect. It is crucial to educate the family that during the initial week of treatment, the child may experience heightened anxiety. Therefore, it is important to wait for the medication to take its full course before assessing its effectiveness.
Question 3 of 5
What information should the practical nurse provide to a female client who started taking an oral sulfonamide for a urinary tract infection the previous day and reports slight anorexia, while also experiencing urinary frequency?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The practical nurse should advise the client to take sulfonamides with a full glass of water to help prevent crystalluria. It is essential to take the medication on an empty stomach, ideally 1 hour before eating or 2 hours after eating to maximize its absorption and effectiveness. Continuing to drink cranberry juice is beneficial, but it is important to take the medicine separately to enhance its therapeutic action.
Question 4 of 5
A client diagnosed with a sinus infection is prescribed ampicillin sodium. The practical nurse (PN) should instruct the client to notify the healthcare provider immediately if which symptom occurs?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A - Rash. Rash is the most common adverse side effect of all generations of penicillin, indicating an allergy to the medication. An allergic reaction could lead to anaphylactic shock, a severe and potentially life-threatening emergency. It is crucial for the client to inform the healthcare provider promptly if a rash develops after taking ampicillin sodium.
Question 5 of 5
A client who was diagnosed with oral thrush calls the clinic saying the medication bottle broke and all of the medication was spilled. The client is requesting a refill order. The nurse should contact the health care provider about a refill for which medication?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Nystatin is the appropriate medication for treating oral thrush as it is an antifungal drug specifically used for fungal infections. It targets the fungus responsible for thrush, Candida, effectively. Therefore, the nurse should contact the healthcare provider to request a refill of Nystatin for the client.