HESI RN
HESI Pharmacology Practice Exam Questions
Question 1 of 5
The client with metastatic breast cancer is receiving tamoxifen. The nurse specifically monitors which laboratory value while the client is taking this medication?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Calcium level. Tamoxifen may increase calcium levels, leading to hypercalcemia. Symptoms of hypercalcemia include increased urine volume, excessive thirst, nausea, vomiting, constipation, muscle weakness, and bone pain. Monitoring serum calcium levels is essential to detect and manage this potential side effect.
Question 2 of 5
An older client recently has been taking cimetidine (Tagamet). The nurse monitors the client for which most frequent central nervous system side effect of this medication?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Older clients are particularly vulnerable to central nervous system side effects of cimetidine. The most frequent side effect is confusion. It is crucial for nurses to be vigilant in monitoring for confusion as it can impact the client's safety and well-being. While tremors, dizziness, and hallucinations are possible side effects, confusion is the most common in older clients taking cimetidine.
Question 3 of 5
A client with a peptic ulcer is diagnosed with a Helicobacter pylori infection. The nurse is reinforcing teaching for the client about the medications prescribed, including clarithromycin (Biaxin), esomeprazole (Nexium), and amoxicillin (Amoxil). Which statement by the client indicates the best understanding of the medication regimen?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is option C: "The medications will kill the bacteria and stop the acid production." This response demonstrates the best understanding of the medication regimen for a client with a peptic ulcer and Helicobacter pylori infection. This statement shows a comprehensive understanding of the prescribed medications. Clarithromycin and amoxicillin are antibiotics used to eradicate the Helicobacter pylori infection, while esomeprazole is a proton pump inhibitor that helps reduce gastric acid production. By correctly stating that the medications will address both killing the bacteria and reducing acid production, the client shows a clear grasp of the dual treatment goals in managing a peptic ulcer associated with Helicobacter pylori infection. Option A is incorrect because it oversimplifies the regimen by focusing solely on killing the bacteria without acknowledging the role of acid suppression in treatment. Option B is incorrect as it suggests the medications are only for pain relief, neglecting their primary purpose of addressing the underlying infection and acid production. Option D is incorrect as it inaccurately describes the mechanism of action of the medications by referencing coating of the ulcer, which is not the primary action of these drugs in this context. Understanding the rationale behind the prescribed medications is crucial for clients to adhere to the treatment plan effectively and achieve optimal outcomes. By comprehending the dual action of antibiotics to eradicate the infection and proton pump inhibitors to reduce acid production, clients can actively participate in their care and promote healing of peptic ulcers associated with Helicobacter pylori infection.
Question 4 of 5
A postoperative client has received a dose of naloxone hydrochloride for respiratory depression shortly after transfer to the nursing unit from the postanesthesia care unit. After administration of the medication, the nurse checks the client for:
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Naloxone hydrochloride is an antidote to opioids and may be administered to postoperative clients to address respiratory depression. This medication can also reverse the effects of analgesics, potentially leading to a sudden increase in pain. Therefore, the nurse must assess the client for any unexpected rise in pain levels after naloxone administration.
Question 5 of 5
A client taking ethambutol (Myambutol) understands the instructions provided by the nurse if the client states that he or she will immediately report:
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: In this scenario, the correct answer is B) Problems with visual acuity. Ethambutol is known to cause optic neuritis, which can lead to irreversible vision loss. Therefore, it is crucial for the client to report any changes in vision immediately to prevent serious complications. Option A) Impaired sense of hearing is not typically associated with ethambutol use, so it is not a priority side effect to report in this case. Option C) Gastrointestinal side effects are common with many medications, including ethambutol, but they are usually not considered urgent or life-threatening. These side effects can often be managed or may subside over time. Option D) Orange-red discoloration of body secretions is a known side effect of ethambutol, but it is not a critical issue that requires immediate reporting. It is more of a cosmetic concern rather than a serious adverse effect. Educationally, this question highlights the importance of understanding the specific side effects of medications and prioritizing which ones require immediate attention. Nurses and healthcare providers must educate clients on potential side effects to empower them to be proactive in their care and to prevent serious complications.