HESI RN
HESI RN Pharmacology Questions
Extract:
Question 1 of 5
A peak and trough level was obtained from a client receiving an aminoglycoside IV every 8 hours. Which finding presents the highest risk for the client and should be reported immediately to the healthcare provider? Which finding presents the highest risk for the client and should be reported immediately to the healthcare provider?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Increased peak and trough levels of aminoglycosides indicate potential toxicity, risking nephrotoxicity (from high peaks) and ototoxicity (from high troughs). Immediate reporting to the provider prevents serious harm.
Question 2 of 5
The nurse is preparing to apply the client’s scheduled fentanyl transdermal patch. The nurse notes the previously applied patch is intact on the client’s upper back and the client reports no pain. Which action should the nurse take? Which action should the nurse take?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Fentanyl patches are replaced every 72 hours, with new patches applied to a different site to prevent skin irritation. Removing the old patch and applying the new one in a different location maintains effective pain control.
Question 3 of 5
A client with bulimia and depression who is taking phenelzine 90 mg daily is admitted to an acute care hospital for uncontrolled hypertension. Which dietary choices should the nurse instruct the client to avoid? Which dietary choices should the nurse instruct the client to avoid?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Phenelzine, an MAOI, can cause hypertensive crisis if combined with tyramine-rich foods like pepperoni. Instructing the client to avoid pepperoni pizza prevents this dangerous interaction, especially given the client’s uncontrolled hypertension.
Question 4 of 5
A male client has been receiving the antibiotic gentamicin sulfate, IV piggyback every 12 hours for several days. Which observation by the nurse indicates that the client may be experiencing an adverse effect of gentamicin? Which observation indicates an adverse effect of gentamicin?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Gentamicin is associated with ototoxicity, which can manifest as decreased hearing due to damage to the inner ear. This adverse effect requires immediate attention to prevent permanent hearing loss.
Question 5 of 5
A client with myasthenia gravis receives a new prescription for pyridostigmine. Which information should the nurse obtain prior to administering the medication? Which information should the nurse obtain prior to administering the medication?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Pyridostigmine, a cholinesterase inhibitor, is taken orally and can cause gastrointestinal side effects. Ensuring recent oral intake minimizes these effects and optimizes absorption, making it the most critical information to obtain before administration.