NCLEX-PN
NCLEX Pharmacology Cheat Sheet Questions
Extract:
Question 1 of 5
An adult client had an abdominal hysterectomy this morning. Meperidine HCl (Demerol) 75 mg IM q3-4h PRN for pain is ordered. At 9:00 P.M., she complains of lower abdominal pain. She was last medicated at 5:45 P.M. What is the most appropriate initial action for the nurse to take?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The last dose was over 3 hours ago, within the PRN order. Administering meperidine is appropriate for pain relief.
Question 2 of 5
The nurse is assessing the elderly client first thing in the morning. The client is confused and sleepy. Which intervention should the nurse implement first?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Sedatives are a common cause of morning confusion in the elderly; determining recent administration guides next steps.
Question 3 of 5
The nurse is administering diltiazem (Cardizem) to a client. Prior to administration, it is important for the nurse to assess which parameter?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Blood pressure. Diltiazem (Cardizem) is a calcium channel blocker that causes systemic vasodilation resulting in decreased blood pressure.
Question 4 of 5
The client is in end-stage renal disease and is receiving sodium polystyrene sulfonate (Kayexalate) via an enema. Which data indicate the medication is effective?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Kayexalate lowers serum potassium in hyperkalemia; a level of 5 mEq/L (normal) indicates effectiveness. Urine, phosphorus, or rhythm are unrelated.
Question 5 of 5
Keflex 250 mg PO q6h is ordered for an adult. The nurse notes that the client's history indicates that she has an allergy to penicillin. What is the most appropriate initial action for the nurse?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: There is often a cross-allergy between penicillin and cephalosporins like Keflex. The nurse should first determine the type of reaction to assess if Keflex is safe.