HESI RN
RN HESI Pharmacology Exam 3 Questions
Extract:
Question 1 of 5
The nurse observes that a client has become lethargic 30 minutes after receiving an opioid injection for pain. Which vital sign should the nurse obtain first?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Opioids can cause respiratory depression, a life-threatening side effect presenting as lethargy. Assessing respiratory rate first identifies slowed breathing, guiding urgent interventions like naloxone. Pulse, blood pressure, or temperature are secondary concerns.
Question 2 of 5
The nurse is providing discharge instructions to a client who has been prescribed gabapentin 300 mg by mouth (PO) three times a day for postherpetic neuralgia. Which symptom should the nurse tell the client to report to the healthcare provider?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Rapid weight gain may indicate fluid retention or other complications, requiring provider evaluation, though not a common gabapentin side effect. Photosensitivity, gastric irritation, and sexual dysfunction are less associated with gabapentin and less urgent.
Question 3 of 5
A client with anemia secondary to chronic kidney disease (CKD) started a prescription for epoetin alfa two months ago. Which client finding best indicates that the medication is effective? Reference Range: Hemoglobin (Hgb) [14 to 18 g/dL (8.7 to 11.2 mmol/L)]
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Epoetin alfa stimulates red blood cell production, directly increasing hemoglobin levels. A rise to 12 g/dL, though below the male reference range, objectively indicates effectiveness in treating anemia. Iron therapy tolerance, subjective energy improvements, or dietary changes are less direct measures of epoetin’s impact.
Question 4 of 5
The nurse is teaching a client how to use an inhaler device. Which client statement indicates to the nurse that the client understands the instructions?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Rinsing the mouth after inhaler use, especially with corticosteroids, prevents oral thrush by removing residual medication. Bedtime-only use, meal timing, or caffeine limits are incorrect and unrelated to proper inhaler technique.
Question 5 of 5
A client who is taking furosemide reports experiencing leg cramps, a cough, feeling tired, and palpitations. Which action should the nurse take first?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Furosemide can cause hypokalemia, leading to palpitations and cramps, risking arrhythmias. Cardiac monitoring first detects potential arrhythmias, prioritizing safety. Intake/output, compresses, or bed elevation are secondary to addressing cardiac risks.