HESI RN
HESI RN 311 Pharmacology Questions
Extract:
Question 1 of 5
A client with a history of smoking cigarettes for many years arrives at the clinic and expresses a desire to stop smoking. The client receives a prescription for bupropion to reduce nicotine cravings. Which information should the nurse include in the discharge teaching?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Bupropion may cause insomnia and weight loss (
A) due to its stimulant effects, requiring patient awareness. Taste changes (
B) are not common. No specific water requirement exists (
C). Tyramine-free diets (
D) are for MAOIs, not bupropion.
Question 2 of 5
Prior to administering an oral dose of methylprednisolone, the nurse determines the client’s serum total calcium level is 5.5 mg/dL (1.375 mmol/L). What action is most important for the nurse to take?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: A calcium level of 5.5 mg/dL indicates severe hypocalcemia (normal: 8.5-10.2 mg/dL), risking arrhythmias/seizures. Notifying the provider (
C) ensures urgent correction. Dietary teaching (
A) and milk (
D) are insufficient. Tapering (
B) requires provider direction.
Question 3 of 5
Which laboratory value should the nurse review prior to administering the initial dose of a statin medication?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Statins risk hepatotoxicity; reviewing baseline serum liver enzymes (
D) monitors for liver damage. CBC (
A), electrolytes (
B), and glucose (
C) are not primary concerns unless other conditions exist.
Question 4 of 5
Ferrous sulfate elixir is prescribed for a client with iron deficiency anemia. Which instruction should the nurse provide this client about taking the liquid medication?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Using a straw (
A) minimizes tooth staining from ferrous sulfate elixir. Swallowing undiluted (
B) causes GI irritation; dilution with water/juice is preferred. Antacids (
C) reduce iron absorption by neutralizing stomach acid. Milk (
D) contains calcium, inhibiting absorption. Taking with vitamin C enhances absorption.
Question 5 of 5
A client who has been experiencing headaches since using the herbal remedy feverfew. Which information is important to include for this client?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Feverfew, in the Asteraceae family, risks allergic reactions in those allergic to chamomile/ragweed/yarrow (
A), a critical warning. NSAID interactions (
B), GI side effects (
C), and anxiety (
D) are secondary concerns.