HESI RN
HESI Pharmacology Exam 2 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? Reference Range: Total Calcium [Reference Range: Adult 9 to 10.5 mg/dL or 2.25 to 2.62 mmol/L]
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: A calcium level of 14 mg/dL indicates hypercalcemia, risking complications like arrhythmias. Holding both calcitriol and calcium carbonate and contacting the provider prevents further calcium elevation. Administering either medication could worsen hypercalcemia, making holding both the safest action.
Question 2 of 5
The nurse prepares to administer a scheduled dose of labetalol by mouth to a client with hypertension. The client’s vital signs are temperature 99° F (37.2° C), heart rate 48 beats/minute, respirations 16 breaths/minute, and blood pressure (B/P) 150/90 mm Hg. Which action should the nurse take?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Labetalol, a beta-blocker, can worsen bradycardia (heart rate 48 beats/minute). Withholding the dose and notifying the provider prevents potential cardiac complications, such as severe bradycardia or heart block, prioritizing client safety.
Question 3 of 5
A client with heart failure (HF) develops hyperaldosteronism and spironolactone is prescribed. Which instruction should the nurse include in this client’s plan of care?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Spironolactone, a potassium-sparing diuretic, can cause hyperkalemia. Limiting high-potassium foods like bananas prevents dangerous potassium elevations, which can lead to arrhythmias. Salt substitutes often contain potassium, and bruising or photosensitivity are not primary concerns.
Question 4 of 5
The nurse is planning care for a client with major depression who is receiving a new prescription for duloxetine. Which information is most important for the nurse to obtain?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Duloxetine is metabolized by the liver, and hepatotoxicity is a rare but serious risk. Obtaining liver function test results ensures safe administration, as impaired liver function increases toxicity risk. Family history, weight changes, or other antidepressant use are relevant but secondary to liver function.
Question 5 of 5
The nurse is preparing a discharge teaching plan for a client who is taking ciprofloxacin hydrochloride tablets, which were prescribed because of a suspected anthrax exposure. Which instruction(s) should be included in the teaching plan? (Select all that apply.)
Correct Answer: C,D
Rationale: Ciprofloxacin is linked to tendonitis and rupture, requiring immediate reporting of tendon pain/swelling. Increased fluid intake prevents crystalluria, a side effect. Crushing tablets may alter efficacy, and NSAIDs increase seizure risk with ciprofloxacin, making these incorrect.