Nursing (2026) | Galen College of Nursing
| Actual Final Exam Questions & Verified
Answers with Detailed Rationales |
Comprehensive Study Guide | A+ Graded
Q1. A patient is prescribed a beta-blocker (metoprolol)
for hypertension. Which assessment finding would
indicate the medication is effective?
A) Heart rate 52 bpm
B) Blood pressure 110/70 mmHg
C) Respiratory rate 22/min
D) Blood glucose 140 mg/dL
Correct Answer: B. Blood pressure 110/70 mmHg
Rationale: Metoprolol is a beta-blocker used for
hypertension. A therapeutic response is indicated by a
decrease in blood pressure to the target range. A heart
rate of 52 bpm is bradycardic, which may indicate
excessive beta-blockade and should be reported .
,Q2. The nurse is administering a beta-blocker to a patient
with asthma. Which action is most appropriate?
A) Administer the medication as ordered, noting it is safe
for asthmatic patients
B) Administer the medication, as asthma is not a
contraindication for beta-blockers
C) Hold the medication and notify the provider; non-
selective beta-blockers are contraindicated in asthma
D) Administer a higher dose to overcome
bronchoconstriction
Correct Answer: C. Hold the medication and notify the
provider; non-selective beta-blockers are
contraindicated in asthma
Rationale: Non-selective beta-blockers (e.g., propranolol)
block beta-2 receptors in the lungs, causing
bronchoconstriction. They are contraindicated in patients
with asthma or COPD. Cardioselective beta-blockers (e.g.,
metoprolol) are preferred but should still be used
cautiously .
, Q3. A patient is prescribed an ACE inhibitor (lisinopril).
Which side effect is most common and should be
reported to the provider?
A) Dry cough
B) Hyperkalemia
C) Angioedema
D) Hypotension
Correct Answer: A. Dry cough
Rationale: ACE inhibitors commonly cause a dry,
persistent cough due to accumulation of bradykinin. This
is the most common side effect and often leads to
discontinuation of the medication .
Q4. A patient is prescribed an ARB (losartan). The nurse
understands that ARBs:
A) Cause a dry cough more frequently than ACE inhibitors
B) Block angiotensin II receptors, causing vasodilation