LPN LPN
LPN Pharmacology Practice Test
1. A client has a new prescription for heparin. Which of the following laboratory results should be monitored to evaluate the effectiveness of the medication?
- A. Prothrombin time (PT)
- B. International normalized ratio (INR)
- C. Activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT)
- D. Platelet count
Correct answer: C
Rationale: Activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT) is the laboratory result that should be monitored to evaluate the effectiveness of heparin. Heparin works by prolonging the aPTT, and monitoring this parameter helps ensure the medication's effectiveness and safety in preventing clot formation. Prothrombin time (PT) and International normalized ratio (INR) are used to monitor the effectiveness of warfarin, another anticoagulant. Platelet count is essential to assess platelet function and clotting disorders, but it is not specifically used to monitor heparin therapy.
2. When preparing to administer medication to a client, what action should the nurse take first?
- A. Verify the client's identity.
- B. Check the medication expiration date.
- C. Review the client's medical history.
- D. Obtain the client's vital signs.
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Verifying the client's identity is the initial and most critical step in medication administration. It is crucial to confirm that the right medication is being given to the correct patient. Checking the client's identity helps prevent medication errors and ensures patient safety. Checking the medication expiration date (choice B) is important but should come after verifying the client's identity. Reviewing the client's medical history (choice C) is valuable but not the first step in medication administration. Obtaining the client's vital signs (choice D) is essential in some situations but is usually not the first action needed before administering medication.
3. A client has a new prescription for alendronate. Which of the following instructions should be included in the teaching?
- A. Take the medication with a full glass of water.
- B. Lie down for 30 minutes after taking the medication.
- C. Take the medication at bedtime.
- D. Avoid dairy products while taking the medication.
Correct answer: A
Rationale: The correct instruction for taking alendronate is to take it with a full glass of water to prevent esophageal irritation. This helps ensure proper absorption and reduces the risk of irritation to the esophagus. Choice B is incorrect because patients should remain upright for at least 30 minutes after taking alendronate to prevent esophageal irritation. Choice C is incorrect as alendronate should be taken in the morning on an empty stomach. Choice D is also incorrect as there is no specific requirement to avoid dairy products while taking alendronate.
4. A healthcare professional is assessing a client who has been taking lithium carbonate for bipolar disorder. Which of the following findings should the professional report to the provider?
- A. Increased urination
- B. Tremors
- C. Weight gain
- D. Blurred vision
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Tremors are a concerning sign of lithium toxicity that indicate a potential overdose. Tremors can progress to more severe symptoms if not addressed promptly. Reporting tremors promptly allows the provider to assess the client's lithium levels, adjust the dosage, or provide appropriate interventions to prevent further complications. Increased urination, weight gain, and blurred vision are potential side effects of lithium but are not indicative of toxicity or overdose. While they should still be monitored, they are not as urgent as tremors in the context of lithium therapy.
5. A nurse is providing teaching to a client who has a new prescription for warfarin. Which of the following statements should the nurse include?
- A. Avoid using a soft toothbrush.
- B. Report any signs of bleeding.
- C. Increase your intake of leafy green vegetables.
- D. Take the medication with food.
Correct answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: 'Report any signs of bleeding.' When a patient is prescribed warfarin, it is essential to monitor for signs of bleeding as warfarin is an anticoagulant that increases the risk of bleeding. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect. Avoid using a soft toothbrush is not directly related to warfarin therapy, increasing the intake of leafy green vegetables can interfere with warfarin's effectiveness due to its vitamin K content, and taking warfarin with food is unnecessary as it can be taken with or without food.
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