HESI RN
Wgu RN HESI Pharmocology Questions
Extract:
Question 1 of 5
Prior to administering oral doses of calcitriol and calcium carbonate to a client with hypoparathyroidism, the nurse notes that the client's total calcium level is 14 mg/dL (3.5 mmol/L). Which action should the nurse implement?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: A calcium level of 14 mg/dL indicates hypercalcemia (normal: 9-10.5 mg/dL). Holding both calcitriol and calcium carbonate (
C) and contacting the provider prevents worsening hypercalcemia. Administering either (A, B,
D) risks complications like arrhythmias or kidney stones.
Question 2 of 5
On admission, the healthcare provider prescribes a broad spectrum antibiotic for a client with a gram-negative infection. Before administering the first dose, it is most important for the nurse to implement which prescription?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Obtaining cultures (
B) before antibiotics identifies the specific bacteria and ensures effective treatment. Sodium/fluid monitoring (
A) is unrelated to antibiotics. Blood count/electrolytes (
C) don’t guide initial therapy.
Topical antibiotics (
D) are secondary.
Question 3 of 5
A client with Parkinson's disease who is taking carbidopa/levodopa reports that urine appears to be darker in color. Which action should the nurse take?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Carbidopa/levodopa can darken urine (
C), a benign side effect (matches 55-Q37). Increased fluids (
A) or urine culture (
D) are unnecessary unless other symptoms arise. Measuring output (
B) doesn’t address the color change.
Question 4 of 5
A female client with multiple sclerosis reports having less fatigue and improved memory since she began using the herbal supplement, ginkgo biloba. Which information is most important for the nurse to include in the teaching plan for this client?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Ginkgo biloba increases bleeding risk with aspirin/NSAIDs (
C), a critical interaction (matches 55-Q39/52). Nausea/diarrhea (
A) and anxiety/headaches (
B) are less severe. Pregnancy restrictions (
D) are secondary unless applicable.
Question 5 of 5
A client in the surgical recovery area asks the nurse to bring the largest possible dose of pain medication available. Which action should the nurse implement first?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Assessing pain level with a scale (
C) quantifies pain and guides dosing (matches 55-Q3). Last dose timing (
A) and drug history (
D) are secondary. Diversional thoughts (
B) are an adjunct, not the priority.