HESI RN
HESI Pharmacology Practice Exam
1. The camp nurse asks the children preparing to swim in the lake if they have applied sunscreen. The nurse reminds the children that chemical sunscreens are most effective when applied:
- A. Immediately before swimming
- B. 15 minutes before exposure to the sun
- C. Immediately before exposure to the sun
- D. At least 30 minutes before exposure to the sun
Correct answer: D
Rationale: Chemical sunscreens are most effective when applied at least 30 minutes before exposure to the sun to allow them to penetrate the skin and provide optimal protection. Applying sunscreen immediately before swimming (Choice A) or immediately before exposure to the sun (Choice C) may not provide sufficient time for the sunscreen to be absorbed and offer proper protection. Applying sunscreen 15 minutes before sun exposure (Choice B) is also not ideal as it may not allow enough time for the sunscreen to work effectively. Therefore, the correct answer is to apply chemical sunscreen at least 30 minutes before exposure to the sun to ensure it can be absorbed and offer the intended protection. It is important to reapply sunscreen after swimming or sweating to maintain its effectiveness.
2. The client with metastatic breast cancer is receiving tamoxifen. The nurse specifically monitors which laboratory value while the client is taking this medication?
- A. Glucose level
- B. Calcium level
- C. Potassium level
- D. Prothrombin time
Correct answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Calcium level. Tamoxifen may increase calcium levels, leading to hypercalcemia. Symptoms of hypercalcemia include increased urine volume, excessive thirst, nausea, vomiting, constipation, muscle weakness, and bone pain. Monitoring serum calcium levels is essential to detect and manage this potential side effect. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because tamoxifen does not directly affect glucose, potassium, or prothrombin time levels significantly.
3. A client is to begin a 6-month course of therapy with isoniazid (INH). A nurse plans to teach the client to:
- A. Avoid drinking alcohol.
- B. Report yellow eyes or skin immediately.
- C. Avoid Swiss or aged cheeses.
- D. Avoid vitamin supplements during therapy.
Correct answer: B
Rationale: When a client is on isoniazid (INH) therapy, they should be instructed to report any signs of hepatitis, such as yellowing of the eyes or skin, immediately. Alcohol consumption should be avoided during INH therapy due to the risk of hepatotoxicity. Foods high in tyramine, such as Swiss or aged cheeses, should also be avoided to prevent adverse reactions. Additionally, while on INH therapy, it is essential to avoid vitamin supplements containing pyridoxine (vitamin B6) to prevent potential interactions.
4. Sildenafil (Viagra) is prescribed to treat a client with erectile dysfunction. A nurse reviews the client's medical record and would question the prescription if which of the following is noted in the client's history?
- A. Neuralgia
- B. Insomnia
- C. Use of nitroglycerin
- D. Use of multivitamins
Correct answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C. Sildenafil (Viagra) enhances the vasodilating effect of nitric oxide and is contraindicated with the concurrent use of organic nitrates and nitroglycerin. Using nitroglycerin together with Viagra can lead to severe hypotension and cardiovascular collapse, making it unsafe to combine both medications.
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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