NCLEX-RN Pharmacology Immune
System Exam Questions |
20 Advanced NCLEX Practice Questions
with Detailed Rationales | ATI
Pharmacology Made Easy Style |
Nursing Pharmacology Study Guide
Question 1
Clinical Scenario
A 24-year-old client with seasonal allergic rhinitis is prescribed
cetirizine. The client asks the nurse how the medication works.
Question Stem
Which explanation by the nurse is most appropriate?
A. "The medication suppresses antibody production by B
lymphocytes."
B. "The medication blocks histamine receptors, reducing allergic
symptoms."
C. "The medication stimulates cortisol production."
,D. "The medication destroys mast cells."
Correct Answer
B. "The medication blocks histamine receptors, reducing
allergic symptoms."
Detailed Rationale
Cetirizine is a second-generation antihistamine that selectively
blocks peripheral H1 histamine receptors. Histamine release
during allergic reactions causes vasodilation, itching, sneezing,
and increased mucus production. By blocking H1 receptors,
cetirizine reduces these symptoms with minimal sedation
compared with first-generation antihistamines.
Option A is incorrect because antihistamines do not suppress
antibody production. Option C is incorrect because cetirizine
has no effect on cortisol synthesis. Option D is incorrect
because mast cells remain intact; the drug only blocks
histamine effects after release.
Nurses should educate clients that symptom relief may occur
within several hours and that mild drowsiness can still occur.
Clients should avoid alcohol or other CNS depressants until they
know how the medication affects them.
Learning Objectives
• Describe the mechanism of action of antihistamines.
, • Identify expected therapeutic effects of H1 blockers.
• Educate patients regarding adverse effects of
antihistamines.
Medication Safety Focus: Patient education
Question 2
Clinical Scenario
A 35-year-old client receiving prednisone 40 mg daily for
systemic lupus erythematosus has been taking the medication
for 6 weeks.
Question Stem
Which instruction is most important for the nurse to provide?
A. Stop the medication once symptoms improve.
B. Restrict all fluid intake.
C. Avoid abruptly discontinuing the medication.
D. Take the medication at bedtime.
Correct Answer
C. Avoid abruptly discontinuing the medication.
Detailed Rationale
System Exam Questions |
20 Advanced NCLEX Practice Questions
with Detailed Rationales | ATI
Pharmacology Made Easy Style |
Nursing Pharmacology Study Guide
Question 1
Clinical Scenario
A 24-year-old client with seasonal allergic rhinitis is prescribed
cetirizine. The client asks the nurse how the medication works.
Question Stem
Which explanation by the nurse is most appropriate?
A. "The medication suppresses antibody production by B
lymphocytes."
B. "The medication blocks histamine receptors, reducing allergic
symptoms."
C. "The medication stimulates cortisol production."
,D. "The medication destroys mast cells."
Correct Answer
B. "The medication blocks histamine receptors, reducing
allergic symptoms."
Detailed Rationale
Cetirizine is a second-generation antihistamine that selectively
blocks peripheral H1 histamine receptors. Histamine release
during allergic reactions causes vasodilation, itching, sneezing,
and increased mucus production. By blocking H1 receptors,
cetirizine reduces these symptoms with minimal sedation
compared with first-generation antihistamines.
Option A is incorrect because antihistamines do not suppress
antibody production. Option C is incorrect because cetirizine
has no effect on cortisol synthesis. Option D is incorrect
because mast cells remain intact; the drug only blocks
histamine effects after release.
Nurses should educate clients that symptom relief may occur
within several hours and that mild drowsiness can still occur.
Clients should avoid alcohol or other CNS depressants until they
know how the medication affects them.
Learning Objectives
• Describe the mechanism of action of antihistamines.
, • Identify expected therapeutic effects of H1 blockers.
• Educate patients regarding adverse effects of
antihistamines.
Medication Safety Focus: Patient education
Question 2
Clinical Scenario
A 35-year-old client receiving prednisone 40 mg daily for
systemic lupus erythematosus has been taking the medication
for 6 weeks.
Question Stem
Which instruction is most important for the nurse to provide?
A. Stop the medication once symptoms improve.
B. Restrict all fluid intake.
C. Avoid abruptly discontinuing the medication.
D. Take the medication at bedtime.
Correct Answer
C. Avoid abruptly discontinuing the medication.
Detailed Rationale
