HESI RN
RN HESI Pharmacology Exam 3 Questions
Extract:
Question 1 of 5
A client with anemia secondary to chronic kidney disease (CKD) started a prescription for epoetin alfa two months ago. Which client finding best indicates that the medication is effective? Reference Range: Hemoglobin (Hgb) [14 to 18 g/dL (8.7 to 11.2 mmol/L)]
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Epoetin alfa stimulates red blood cell production, directly increasing hemoglobin levels. A rise to 12 g/dL, though below the male reference range, objectively indicates effectiveness in treating anemia. Iron therapy tolerance, subjective energy improvements, or dietary changes are less direct measures of epoetin’s impact.
Question 2 of 5
The nurse observes that a client has become lethargic 30 minutes after receiving an opioid injection for pain. Which vital sign should the nurse obtain first?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Opioids can cause respiratory depression, a life-threatening side effect presenting as lethargy. Assessing respiratory rate first identifies slowed breathing, guiding urgent interventions like naloxone. Pulse, blood pressure, or temperature are secondary concerns.
Question 3 of 5
The nurse administers risedronate to a client with osteoporosis at 0700. The client asks for a glass of milk to drink with the medication. Which action should the nurse take?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Risedronate requires a full glass of water on an empty stomach, with the client upright for 30 minutes, to ensure absorption and prevent esophageal irritation. Milk or food reduces bioavailability, making water the only appropriate accompaniment.
Question 4 of 5
A client with anemia secondary to chronic kidney disease (CKD) started a prescription for epoetin alfa two months ago. Which client finding best indicates that the medication is effective? Reference Range: Hemoglobin (Hgb) [14 to 18 g/dL (8.7 to 11.2 mmol/L)]
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Epoetin alfa stimulates red blood cell production, directly increasing hemoglobin levels. A rise to 12 g/dL, though below the male reference range, objectively indicates effectiveness in treating anemia. Iron therapy tolerance, subjective energy improvements, or dietary changes are less direct measures of epoetin’s impact.
Question 5 of 5
The nurse is administering sodium polystyrene sulfonate to a client in acute kidney injury (AKI). Which laboratory finding indicates that the medication has been effective? Reference Range: Glucose [74 to 106 mg/dL (4.1 to 5.9 mmol/L)] Hemoglobin [14 to 18 g/dL (140 to 180 g/L)] Potassium [3.5 to 5 mEq/L (3.5 to 5 mmol/L)] Ammonia [10 to 80 pg/dL (6 to 47 μmol/dL)]
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Sodium polystyrene sulfonate lowers potassium by exchanging sodium for potassium in the gut. A potassium level of 3.8 mEq/L (normal range) indicates effective hyperkalemia treatment in AKI. Ammonia, hemoglobin, and glucose are unaffected by this medication.