HESI RN
HESI Pharmacology Exam 2 Questions
Extract:
Question 1 of 5
A client receives a new prescription for levothyroxine. Which statement made by the client indicates to the nurse the education was effective?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Levothyroxine is best absorbed on an empty stomach, at least 30 minutes before breakfast, to ensure optimal efficacy. High-iodine foods may affect thyroid function, bedtime dosing risks insomnia, and iron supplements should be taken separately but not avoided entirely.
Question 2 of 5
The nurse initiates an infusion of piperacillin-tazobactam for a client with a urinary tract infection. Five minutes into the infusion, the client reports not feeling well. Which client manifestation should the nurse identify as a reason to stop the infusion?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: A scratchy throat may signal an allergic reaction to piperacillin-tazobactam, a penicillin derivative, potentially progressing to anaphylaxis. Stopping the infusion immediately prevents severe complications. Pupillary constriction, hypertension, and bradycardia are not typical allergic responses and require monitoring but not immediate cessation.
Question 3 of 5
A nurse is caring for a client who has Parkinson’s disease and is prescribed an anticholinergic. Which of the following therapeutic outcomes should the nurse expect to see?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Anticholinergics reduce tremors in Parkinson’s by balancing acetylcholine and dopamine. They do not relieve depression, delay disease progression, or improve bladder function (they may worsen it due to urinary retention).
Question 4 of 5
An older adult with iron deficiency anemia is being discharged with a prescription for ferrous sulfate enteric-coated tablets. To promote best absorption of the medication, which information should the nurse include in the discharge instructions?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Ferrous sulfate is best absorbed on an empty stomach, waiting 2 hours after meals to avoid interference from food or minerals like calcium. Bedtime dosing risks GI upset, crushing enteric-coated tablets causes irritation, and multivitamins may contain interfering substances.
Question 5 of 5
A client who received a renal transplant three months ago is readmitted to the acute care unit with signs of graft rejection. While taking the client’s history, the nurse determines that the client has been self-administering St. John’s Wort, an herbal preparation, on the advice of a friend. Which information is most significant about this finding?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: St. John’s Wort induces liver enzymes, reducing cyclosporine levels, an immunosuppressant critical for preventing transplant rejection. This interaction directly contributes to graft rejection, making it the most significant finding. Sodium intake, corticosteroid needs, or depression treatment are less relevant to the acute issue.