HESI RN
HESI Pharmacology Practice Exam
1. A client is learning how to mix regular insulin and NPH insulin in the same syringe. Which action, if performed by the client, indicates the need for further teaching?
- A. Withdraws the NPH insulin first
- B. Withdraws the regular insulin first
- C. Injects air into the NPH insulin vial first
- D. Injects an amount of air equal to the desired dose of insulin into the vial
Correct answer: A
Rationale: When mixing regular insulin with another insulin preparation, it is crucial to withdraw the regular insulin first to prevent contamination. NPH insulin should be drawn after the regular insulin to maintain the integrity of each insulin type. Therefore, if the client withdraws the NPH insulin first, it indicates the need for further teaching. Choice B is correct as withdrawing regular insulin first is the appropriate step. Choice C is incorrect as air should be injected into the vial containing the regular insulin to maintain pressure. Choice D is incorrect as injecting air equal to the desired dose of insulin into the vial is a correct step in preparing the insulin for withdrawal.
2. A client is receiving morphine sulfate for pain management. Which assessment finding requires immediate action?
- A. Constipation
- B. Drowsiness
- C. Respiratory rate of 10 breaths per minute
- D. Nausea
Correct answer: C
Rationale: A respiratory rate of 10 breaths per minute indicates respiratory depression, a serious side effect of morphine sulfate that can lead to respiratory compromise and requires immediate intervention. Constipation, drowsiness, and nausea are common side effects of morphine but are not immediately life-threatening compared to respiratory depression. Monitoring and addressing a low respiratory rate are crucial in preventing further respiratory distress or failure.
3. A client is prescribed atorvastatin (Lipitor) for hyperlipidemia. Which instruction should the nurse include in the teaching plan?
- A. Take the medication in the morning.
- B. Avoid consuming grapefruit juice.
- C. Increase intake of dairy products.
- D. Take the medication with food.
Correct answer: B
Rationale: The correct instruction for the nurse to include in the teaching plan is to advise the client to avoid consuming grapefruit juice. Grapefruit juice can increase the risk of atorvastatin (Lipitor) toxicity by inhibiting its metabolism. Atorvastatin is typically taken in the evening because cholesterol synthesis occurs at night. Increasing dairy intake is not specifically recommended for atorvastatin use, and the medication can be taken with or without food.
4. After administering acetylcysteine (Mucomyst), 20% solution diluted in 0.9% normal saline by nebulizer, the nurse should have which item available for potential use?
- A. Ambu bag
- B. Intubation tray
- C. Nasogastric tube
- D. Suction equipment
Correct answer: D
Rationale: Acetylcysteine is administered via inhalation as a mucolytic. It helps liquefy secretions, making it easier for the client to clear them. However, in some cases, the increased volume of liquefied secretions may be challenging for the client to manage, leading to the potential need for suction equipment to assist in clearing the airway. Therefore, the nurse should have suction equipment available after administering acetylcysteine to address any issues related to excessive secretions.
5. A health care provider (HCP) writes a prescription for digoxin (Lanoxin), 0.25 mg daily. The nurse teaches the client about the medication and tells the client that it is important to:
- A. Count the radial and carotid pulses every morning.
- B. Check the blood pressure every morning and evening.
- C. Stop taking the medication if the pulse is higher than 100 beats per minute.
- D. Withhold the medication and call the HCP if the pulse is less than 60 beats per minute.
Correct answer: D
Rationale: When taking digoxin, monitoring the pulse rate is essential due to its potential effects on heart rate. Digoxin can lead to bradycardia, where the pulse rate drops significantly. Withholding the medication and promptly contacting the healthcare provider if the pulse falls below 60 beats per minute is crucial to prevent severe complications and ensure appropriate management. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect because counting radial and carotid pulses, checking blood pressure, or stopping the medication based on a pulse rate higher than 100 beats per minute are not the primary monitoring parameters for a client taking digoxin.
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