LPN LPN
LPN Pharmacology Assessment A
1. A client with a diagnosis of heart failure is being discharged. What information should the nurse emphasize to the client regarding the use of a daily weight log?
- A. Report any weight gain of more than 2 pounds in a day
- B. Weigh yourself after eating breakfast each morning
- C. Use the same scale each day to check your weight
- D. Record your weight daily and report any changes
Correct answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: 'Report any weight gain of more than 2 pounds in a day.' Sudden weight gain of more than 2 pounds in a day may indicate fluid retention and worsening heart failure. This information is crucial for early intervention and monitoring of the client's condition. Weighing after eating breakfast (choice B) may not provide consistent results due to varying food and fluid intake. Using the same scale each day (choice C) ensures accuracy and consistency in weight measurements. Recording weight daily (choice D) is more frequent than necessary and may not be practical for all clients. It is essential to focus on significant weight changes to prevent unnecessary alarm or confusion.
2. The healthcare professional is assisting in the care of a client diagnosed with deep vein thrombosis (DVT). Which instruction should be reinforced to prevent complications?
- A. Elevate the affected leg using pillows.
- B. Perform leg exercises while sitting.
- C. Wear snug compression stockings.
- D. Avoid applying ice packs to injuries.
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Elevating the affected leg using pillows is crucial in managing deep vein thrombosis (DVT) as it helps reduce swelling and promote venous return, thereby decreasing the risk of complications such as pulmonary embolism. This position aids in improving blood circulation and preventing blood clots from forming or worsening in the affected leg. Performing leg exercises while sitting might increase the risk of dislodging a blood clot. While snug compression stockings are beneficial, the primary focus should be on elevation. Avoiding ice packs on injuries is unrelated to DVT management.
3. A client with a diagnosis of angina pectoris is prescribed nitroglycerin tablets. How should the nurse instruct the client to take the medication?
- A. Swallow the tablet whole with water
- B. Place the tablet under the tongue and let it dissolve
- C. Chew the tablet and then swallow
- D. Place the tablet between the cheek and gum
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Nitroglycerin is most effective when administered sublingually (under the tongue) as it is rapidly absorbed into the bloodstream. Placing the tablet under the tongue allows for quick absorption and faster relief of angina symptoms. Chewing the tablet, swallowing it, or placing it between the cheek and gum would not provide the same rapid onset of action needed during an angina episode. Therefore, the correct instruction for the client is to place the nitroglycerin tablet under the tongue and let it dissolve for optimal effectiveness.
4. The client with a diagnosis of heart failure is receiving furosemide (Lasix). Which laboratory value is most important for the nurse to monitor?
- A. Blood glucose
- B. Serum sodium
- C. Serum potassium
- D. Blood urea nitrogen (BUN)
Correct answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: Serum potassium. When a client is receiving furosemide, a loop diuretic, it can lead to potassium loss. Monitoring the serum potassium levels is crucial to prevent life-threatening complications such as cardiac arrhythmias. Blood glucose (Choice A) is not directly impacted by furosemide. Serum sodium (Choice B) may be affected, but monitoring potassium is more critical due to the risk of arrhythmias. Blood urea nitrogen (BUN) (Choice D) is important for assessing kidney function but is not the most crucial value to monitor in a client taking furosemide.
5. A client is scheduled for a coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery. The nurse should prepare the client by reinforcing information about which post-operative care measure?
- A. You will be on bed rest for the first 48 hours after surgery.
- B. You will be encouraged to cough and deep breathe frequently.
- C. You will be discharged within 24 hours if no complications arise.
- D. You will not be able to eat or drink for 24 hours after surgery.
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Encouraging the client to cough and deep breathe frequently is essential post-operative care to prevent respiratory complications such as atelectasis and pneumonia after CABG surgery. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because post-CABG surgery, early mobilization is encouraged to prevent complications such as deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and pneumonia. Discharge within 24 hours is unlikely after CABG surgery, and early oral intake is encouraged to promote recovery and prevent complications.
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