HESI RN
HESI Pharmacology Practice Exam Questions
Question 1 of 5
The healthcare provider prescribes exenatide (Byetta) for a client with type 1 diabetes mellitus who takes insulin. What is the appropriate intervention for the nurse?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Exenatide (Byetta) is specifically indicated for the treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus and is not recommended for clients with type 1 diabetes mellitus who are taking insulin. Therefore, the appropriate intervention for the nurse is to withhold the medication and question the prescription with the healthcare provider to ensure the safety and appropriateness of the treatment plan for the client.
Question 2 of 5
Heparin sodium is prescribed for the client. The nurse expects that the healthcare provider will prescribe which of the following to monitor for a therapeutic effect of the medication?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT) is used to monitor the therapeutic effect of heparin sodium. Heparin affects the intrinsic pathway of coagulation, and monitoring aPTT helps ensure the medication is within the therapeutic range to prevent clot formation. Hematocrit and hemoglobin levels assess red blood cell concentrations, while prothrombin time (PT) is used to monitor the therapeutic effect of warfarin sodium, a different anticoagulant that affects the extrinsic pathway of coagulation.
Question 3 of 5
When administering hydrochlorothiazide (HydroDIURIL) to a client, the nurse should be aware of which of the following concerns?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C. Hydrochlorothiazide is a thiazide diuretic, which can lead to hypokalemia, hyperglycemia, hypercalcemia, hyperlipidemia, and hyperuricemia. It is a sulfa-based medication, so individuals with a sulfa allergy are at risk for an allergic reaction when taking hydrochlorothiazide.
Question 4 of 5
Nalidixic acid (NegGram) is prescribed for a client with a urinary tract infection. On review of the client's record, the nurse notes that the client is taking warfarin sodium (Coumadin) daily. Which prescription should the nurse anticipate for this client?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Nalidixic acid can intensify the effects of oral anticoagulants by displacing these agents from binding sites on plasma proteins. When an oral anticoagulant, like warfarin sodium (Coumadin), is combined with nalidixic acid, a decrease in the anticoagulant dosage may be necessary to avoid excessive anticoagulation and potential bleeding risks.
Question 5 of 5
Bethanechol chloride (Urecholine) is prescribed for a client with urinary retention. Which disorder would be a contraindication to the administration of this medication?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Bethanechol chloride (Urecholine) should not be administered to clients with urinary strictures as it can contract the bladder and increase pressure within the urinary tract. In individuals with urinary strictures, this elevated pressure may lead to bladder rupture. Therefore, caution is advised when considering the use of Bethanechol chloride in clients with urinary strictures to prevent potential complications.