NCLEX-PN
NCLEX Pharmacology Cheat Sheet Questions
Extract:
Question 1 of 5
The nurse is administering a topical ointment to the client's rash on the right leg. Which intervention should the nurse implement first?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Hand washing is the first step to prevent infection, per aseptic technique. Gloves, cleansing, or armband checks follow.
Question 2 of 5
Prior to administering Alteplase (TPA) to a client admitted for a cerebral vascular accident (CVA), it is critical that the nurse assess:
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: PT/PTT. TPA is a potent thrombolytic enzyme. Because bleeding is the most common side effect, it is most essential to evaluate clotting studies including PT, PTT, APTT, platelets, and hematocrit before beginning therapy.
Question 3 of 5
A 2-year-old child who weighs 33 pounds is to receive a total daily dose of 25 mg/kg of a medication. It is to be administered in three evenly divided doses. The label reads 150 mg/mL. How many milliliters will be injected per dose?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: First, convert 33 pounds to kilograms: 33 ÷ 2.2 = 15 kg.
Then, calculate daily dose: 15 × 25 = 375 mg. Divide by 3 doses: 375 ÷ 3 = 125 mg/dose. Finally, calculate volume: 125 ÷ 150 = 0.83 mL.
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
A young woman delivered a 7-lb, 8-oz baby boy spontaneously. Ergotrate 0.4 mg q6h for five days is ordered. A half-hour after the nurse administers the first dose, she complains of abdominal cramping. The nurse's best response is based on which understanding?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Ergotrate causes uterine contractions, leading to cramping, which is the intended effect to prevent postpartum hemorrhage.