HESI RN
HESI RN 311 Pharmacology Questions
Extract:
Question 1 of 5
A client with chronic kidney disease (CKD) is receiving calcium acetate 667 mg PO. A decrease in which blood value indicates to the nurse that the medication is having the desired effect?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: This question is identical to Question 13. Calcium acetate lowers serum phosphate (
C) by binding it in the GI tract. It does not affect potassium (
A) or pH (
D) and may raise calcium (
B). Note: Duplicate question; consider removing.
Question 2 of 5
A female client with osteoporosis has been taking a weekly dose of oral risedronate for several weeks. The client calls the clinic nurse to report increasing heartburn. How should the nurse respond?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Heartburn with risedronate suggests improper administration (e.g., not enough water, not staying upright). Asking how it’s taken (
C) identifies errors. Antacids (
A) interfere with absorption. Water (
B) is part of correct use but not diagnostic. Emergency care (
D) is premature.
Question 3 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 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 with heart failure (HF) develops hyperaldosteronism and spironolactone is prescribed. Which instruction should the nurse include in the client’s plan of care?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Spironolactone, a potassium-sparing diuretic, risks hyperkalemia. Limiting high-potassium foods (
D) prevents toxicity. Bruising (
A) is unrelated. Salt substitutes (
B) contain potassium, risking hyperkalemia. Photosensitivity (
C) is not a primary concern. Baseline potassium levels should also be checked.