HESI Pharmacology Exam Practice Questions and Answers 2023-2024 Version
1) A nurse is caring for a client with hyperparathyroidism and notes that the
... [Show More] client's
serum calcium level is 13 mg/dL. Which medication should the nurse prepare to
administer as prescribed to the client?
1. Calcium chloride
2. Calcium gluconate
3. Calcitonin (Miacalcin)
4. Large doses of vitamin D -----CORRECT ANSWER-------3. Calcitonin (Miacalcin)
Rationale:
The normal serum calcium level is 8.6 to 10.0 mg/dL. This client is experiencing
hypercalcemia. Calcium gluconate and calcium chloride are medications used for the
treatment of tetany, which occurs as a result of acute hypocalcemia. In hypercalcemia,
large doses of vitamin D need to be avoided. Calcitonin, a thyroid hormone, decreases
the plasma calcium level by inhibiting bone resorption and lowering the serum calcium
concentration.
2.) Oral iron supplements are prescribed for a 6-year-old child with iron deficiency
anemia. The nurse instructs the mother to administer the iron with which best food
item?
1. Milk
2. Water
3. Apple juice
4. Orange juice -----CORRECT ANSWER-------4. Orange juice
Rationale:
Vitamin C increases the absorption of iron by the body. The mother should be instructed
to administer the medication with a citrus fruit or a juice that is high in vitamin C. Milk
may affect absorption of the iron. Water will not assist in absorption. Orange juice
contains a greater amount of vitamin C than apple juice.
3.) Salicylic acid is prescribed for a client with a diagnosis of psoriasis. The nurse
monitors the client, knowing that which of the following would indicate the presence of
systemic toxicity from this medication?
1. Tinnitus
2. Diarrhea
3. Constipation
4. Decreased respirations -----CORRECT ANSWER-------1. Tinnitus
Rationale:
Salicylic acid is absorbed readily through the skin, and systemic toxicity (salicylism) can
result. Symptoms include tinnitus, dizziness, hyperpnea, and psychological
disturbances. Constipation and diarrhea are not associated with salicylism.
4.) 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:
1. Immediately before swimming
2. 15 minutes before exposure to the sun
3. Immediately before exposure to the sun
4. At least 30 minutes before exposure to the sun -----CORRECT ANSWER-------4. At
least 30 minutes before exposure to the sun
Rationale:
Sunscreens are most effective when applied at least 30 minutes before exposure to the
sun so that they can penetrate the skin. All sunscreens should be reapplied after
swimming or sweating. [Show Less]