HESI RN
HESI Pharmacology Practice Exam Questions
Question 1 of 5
The client has a new prescription for metoclopramide (Reglan). On review of the chart, the nurse identifies that this medication can be safely administered with which condition?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Metoclopramide, also known as Reglan, is commonly used to manage vomiting following cancer chemotherapy. It acts as a gastrointestinal stimulant and antiemetic, aiding in relieving nausea and vomiting associated with chemotherapy. Metoclopramide should be avoided in conditions like intestinal obstruction, peptic ulcer with melena, and diverticulitis with perforation due to its prokinetic properties that can worsen these conditions. Therefore, the correct answer is D: Vomiting following cancer chemotherapy.
Question 2 of 5
A client is taking cetirizine hydrochloride (Zyrtec). The nurse checks for which of the following side effects of this medication?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: In this scenario, the correct answer is C) Drowsiness. Cetirizine hydrochloride (Zyrtec) is a second-generation antihistamine known for its non-sedating properties. However, drowsiness can still be a potential side effect, especially in some individuals. Option A) Diarrhea is not a common side effect of cetirizine. This medication is generally well-tolerated and does not typically cause gastrointestinal disturbances like diarrhea. Option B) Excitability is also an unlikely side effect of cetirizine. Antihistamines like cetirizine typically have a sedating effect rather than causing excitability. Option D) Excess salivation is not a known side effect of cetirizine. This side effect is more commonly associated with medications that affect the autonomic nervous system or salivary glands directly. From an educational perspective, understanding the side effects of medications is crucial for safe and effective nursing practice. Nurses need to be able to anticipate, recognize, and manage potential side effects to provide quality care to their patients. By knowing the common side effects of medications like cetirizine, nurses can monitor patients effectively and intervene promptly if adverse reactions occur.
Question 3 of 5
Intravenous heparin therapy is prescribed for a client. While implementing this prescription, a nurse ensures that which of the following medications is available on the nursing unit?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Intravenous heparin therapy is an anticoagulant that works by inhibiting clotting factors in the blood. In case of heparin overdose or excessive bleeding, the antidote is protamine sulfate (Option A). Protamine sulfate works by neutralizing the anticoagulant effects of heparin, making it crucial to have on hand during heparin therapy to prevent serious complications. Option B: Potassium chloride is an electrolyte supplement and not indicated for reversing heparin's effects. Option C: Phytonadione (vitamin K) is used to reverse the effects of warfarin, a different type of anticoagulant. Option D: Aminocaproic acid (Amicar) is used to treat bleeding disorders by promoting clot formation and is not the antidote for heparin. In an educational context, understanding the antidotes for commonly prescribed medications is essential for nurses to provide safe and effective care. It ensures quick intervention in case of adverse reactions or overdose, which can be life-saving for the patient. Protamine sulfate is a critical medication to have available when administering heparin to prevent serious complications, making it a priority for nursing units to stock and be familiar with.
Question 4 of 5
When reviewing laboratory results for a client receiving tacrolimus (Prograf), which laboratory result would indicate to the nurse that the client is experiencing an adverse effect of the medication?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: An elevated blood glucose level of 200 mg/dL indicates an adverse effect of tacrolimus. This finding suggests hyperglycemia, which is a known adverse effect of the medication. Other potential adverse effects of tacrolimus include neurotoxicity and hypertension. Monitoring blood glucose levels is crucial to detect and manage this adverse effect promptly.
Question 5 of 5
Meperidine hydrochloride (Demerol) is prescribed for a client with pain. Which of the following would the nurse monitor for as a side effect of this medication?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Meperidine hydrochloride (Demerol) is an opioid analgesic that can cause various side effects. Common side effects include respiratory depression, orthostatic hypotension, tachycardia, drowsiness, constipation, and urinary retention. Therefore, the nurse should monitor for urinary retention as a potential side effect of Meperidine hydrochloride.