HESI RN
HESI Pharmacology Practice Exam
1. The client has a new prescription for metoclopramide (Reglan). On review of the chart, the nurse identifies that this medication can be safely administered with which condition?
- A. Intestinal obstruction
- B. Peptic ulcer with melena
- C. Diverticulitis with perforation
- D. Vomiting following cancer chemotherapy
Correct answer: D
Rationale: Metoclopramide, also known as Reglan, is commonly used to manage vomiting following cancer chemotherapy. It acts as a gastrointestinal stimulant and antiemetic, aiding in relieving nausea and vomiting associated with chemotherapy. Metoclopramide should be avoided in conditions like intestinal obstruction, peptic ulcer with melena, and diverticulitis with perforation due to its prokinetic properties that can worsen these conditions. Therefore, the correct answer is D: Vomiting following cancer chemotherapy.
2. A client with chronic pain is prescribed transdermal fentanyl (Duragesic) patches. Which instruction should the nurse include in the teaching plan?
- A. Apply the patch to a different site each time.
- B. Avoid using heating pads over the patch.
- C. Change the patch every 72 hours.
- D. Remove the old patch before applying the new one.
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Clients using transdermal fentanyl (Duragesic) patches should avoid using heating pads over the patch as heat can increase the release of the medication, potentially leading to overdose. The patch should be applied to a different site each time, changed every 72 hours, and the old patch should be removed before applying a new one to prevent accidental overdose or excessive drug absorption.
3. A client is taking docusate sodium (Colace). The nurse monitors which of the following to determine whether the client is experiencing a therapeutic effect from this medication?
- A. Abdominal pain
- B. Reduction in steatorrhea
- C. Hematest-negative stools
- D. Regular bowel movements
Correct answer: D
Rationale: The therapeutic effect of docusate sodium (Colace) is to soften stools and promote regular bowel movements, making option D the correct choice. Monitoring for regular bowel movements would indicate that the medication is working as intended by relieving or preventing constipation. Options A, B, and C are not directly related to the therapeutic effect of docusate sodium. Abdominal pain (option A) is a symptom that might indicate a problem rather than a therapeutic effect. Reduction in steatorrhea (option B) and Hematest-negative stools (option C) are not specific outcomes associated with docusate sodium.
4. A client has a prescription to take guaifenesin (Humibid) every 4 hours, as needed. The nurse determines that the client understands the most effective use of this medication if the client states that he or she will:
- A. Watch for irritability as a side effect.
- B. Take the tablet with a full glass of water.
- C. Take an extra dose if the cough is accompanied by fever.
- D. Crush the sustained-release tablet if immediate relief is needed.
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Guaifenesin is an expectorant used to help loosen mucus and make coughs more productive. Taking it with a full glass of water helps decrease the viscosity of secretions, making it easier to expel mucus from the respiratory tract. It is important not to crush sustained-release tablets, as this can alter the intended release of the medication and lead to potential adverse effects.
5. An older client recently has been taking cimetidine (Tagamet). The nurse monitors the client for which most frequent central nervous system side effect of this medication?
- A. Tremors
- B. Dizziness
- C. Confusion
- D. Hallucinations
Correct answer: C
Rationale: Older clients are particularly vulnerable to central nervous system side effects of cimetidine. The most frequent side effect is confusion. It is crucial for nurses to be vigilant in monitoring for confusion as it can impact the client's safety and well-being. While tremors, dizziness, and hallucinations are possible side effects, confusion is the most common in older clients taking cimetidine.
Similar Questions
Access More Features
HESI RN Basic
$69.99/ 30 days
- 5,000 Questions with answers
- All HESI courses Coverage
- 30 days access
HESI RN Premium
$149.99/ 90 days
- 5,000 Questions with answers
- All HESI courses Coverage
- 30 days access