NCLEX-PN
NCLEX Pharmacology Cheat Sheet Questions
Extract:
Question 1 of 5
The nurse is applying silver sulfadiazine (Silvadene) to a child with severe burns to arms and legs. Which side effect should the nurse be monitoring for?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Urine sulfa crystals. When applied to extensive areas, silver sulfadiazine may cause a transient neutropenia, as well as renal function changes with sulfa crystals production and kernicterus.
Question 2 of 5
The client who has had a kidney transplant tells the nurse he has been taking St. John's wort, an herb, for depression. Which action should the nurse take first?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: St. John’s wort induces CYP3A4, reducing immunosuppressant efficacy (e.g., cyclosporine), risking transplant rejection. Stopping it is the priority.
Question 3 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 4 of 5
A 68-year-old client was admitted with congestive heart failure, has been digitalized, and is now taking a maintenance dose of digoxin 0.25 mg PO daily. The client is to be discharged soon. Which assessment is of most immediate concern to the nurse?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Nausea and anorexia are signs of digoxin toxicity, requiring immediate attention to prevent serious complications.
Question 5 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.