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EVOLVE HESI PHARM PN VERSION 2
EXAM 2024 WITH ACTUAL CORRECT
QUESTIONS AND VERIFIED DETAILED
RATIONALES ANSWERS BY EXPERTS
|FREQUENTLY TESTED QUESTIONS AND
SOLUTIONS |ALREADY GRADED A+
|NEWEST |LATEST UPDATE
|GUARANTEED PASS
A client who is receiving an antibiotic suddenly develops hives. The practical nurse should report that
the client is most likely experiencing which type of drug response?
A) Adverse response.
B) Hypersensitivity reaction.
C) Idiosyncratic reaction.
D) Multiple drug interaction.
B) Hypersensitivity reaction.
Feedback:
Hives, a symptom of a hypersensitivity reaction (B), involve an abnormal immune response and are
not uncommon with the use of antibiotics. Although (A, C, and D) are unexpected pharmacologic
reactions, hives represent a life-threatening allergic response and should be reported to ensure
prompt intervention.
The healthcare provider prescribes cycloplegic and mydriatic ophthalmic drops for a client who is having
a cataract removal. What explanation about the drug actions should the practical nurse (PN) provide the
client?
A) Reduces intraocular pressure.
B) Relieves eye pain.
C) Treats conjunctivitis.
D) Dilates the pupil.
D) Dilates the pupil.
Feedback:
Cycloplegic drugs cause ciliary paralysis, and mydriatics dilate the pupil (D), which facilitates access
into the anterior chamber for removal of the lens in cataract surgery. (A, B, and C) are incorrect
actions.
,2|Page
The practical nurse (PN) is assessing a client who takes olanzapine (Zyprexa), an antipsychotic. Which
side effect should the PN most likely note in this client?
A) Insomnia and irritability.
B) Hand tremors and tearing.
C) Nausea and frontal headache.
D) Weight gain and constipation.
D) Weight gain and constipation.
Feedback:
Olanzapine (Zyprexa), an atypical antipsychotic, causes orthostatic hypotension, weight gain, and
anticholinergic effects, such as constipation (D). Common anticholinergic side effects include dry
mouth, blurred vision, nasal stuffiness, weight gain, difficulty urinating, decreased sweating, increased
sensitivity to sunlight, and constipation (D). (A, B, and C) are not expected side effects of this
medication.
The practical nurse (PN) discusses antihypertensive drug therapy with several clients diagnosed with
high blood pressure. To improve client understanding, the PN should emphasize that which medication
preserves renal function in a client with diabetes?
A) Verapamil (Calan).
B) Captopril (Capoten).
C) Clonidine (Catapres).
D) Nifedipine (Procardia).
B) Captopril (Capoten).
Feedback:
Hypertension contributes to diabetic nephropathy, and angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE)
inhibitors, such as captopril (B), slow progression of renal damage for clients with diabetes by
reducing blood pressure, contributing to blood sugar control by increasing the body's sensitivity to
insulin, and moving glucose from the bloodstream into cells. Verapamil (A), nifedipine (D), and
clonidine (C) are used the treatment of hypertension, but do not provide the same effects on blood
glucose as captopril does for clients with diabetes.
A client with schizophrenia has been taking clozapine (Clozaril) for several months. The practical nurse
(PN) monitors the client for extrapyramidal symptoms (EPS). Which reason supports the PN's
assessment?
A) Prolonged use of antidepressant medications reduce skeletal muscle tone.
B) The excess amount of norepinephrine causes an increase in blood pressure.
C) The increased availability of serotonin affects mood and behavior.
D) Atypical antipsychotics can deplete the brain's supply of dopamine.
D) Atypical antipsychotics can deplete the brain's supply of dopamine.
Feedback:
The use of an atypical antipsychotic, such as clozapine, should include an assessment of
musculoskeletal functioning for signs and symptoms of any EPS reaction that can occur from a lack of
the brain neurotransmitter dopamine (D). (A, B, and C) do not explain the cause of EPS.
,3|Page
A client who is transferred to the cardiac rehabilitation unit after a myocardial infarction is ready for
discharge with a new prescription for metoprolol (Lopressor). The client asks, I don't have high blood
pressure, so why did my healthcare provider give me this medicine? What information should the
practical nurse (PN) provide?
A) Anticoagulation is the most important action of metoprolol.
B) Beta-blockers are routinely prescribed after heart damage.
C) Heart failure is prevented as a complication while healing.
D) A slower heart rate reduces the heart's oxygen demand.
D) A slower heart rate reduces the heart's oxygen demand.
Feedback:
Lopressor, a beta-blocker, slows the heart rate and is prescribed after a myocardial infarction to
reduce the heart's work load and oxygen demand (D). (A, B, and D) are incorrect.
Which serum laboratory result should the practical nurse (PN) monitor for the effectiveness of lactulose
(Cephulac)?
A) Ammonia.
B) Potassium.
C) Uric acid.
D) Triglycerides.
A) Ammonia.
Feedback:
Lactulose reduces blood ammonia (A) levels to improve mental status of a client with hepatic
encephalopathy resulting from cirrhosis or other liver problems. Changes in (B, C, and D) do not
evaluate the therapeutic response of lactulose.
The practical nurse (PN) is caring for a client who is receiving dexamethasone (Decadron) after
abdominal surgery. Which finding should the PN report to the charge nurse?
A) Weight loss.
B) Impaired healing.
C) Bradycardia.
D) Hyperkalemia.
B) Impaired healing.
Feedback:
Glucocorticoids, such as Decadron, are used in the treatment of allergic, inflammatory, and
debilitating conditions. A common side of exogenous corticosteroid therapy is hyperglycemia and
delayed wound healing (B). (A, C, and D) are side effects not associated with the administration of
Decadron.
The practical nurse (PN) is reinforcing teaching for a client who is receiving diltiazem (Cardizem), a
calcium channel blocker. Which drug action should the practical nurse explain?
A) Increased force of contraction.
B) Decreased rate of contraction.
C) Decreased peripheral resistance.
D) Increased speed of conduction.
, 4|Page
B) Decreased rate of contraction.
Feedback:
Calcium-channel blockers decrease cardiac contractility (inotropy), atrioventricular-node conduction
(dromotropy), and heart rate (chronotropy) (B). (A, C, and D) are not pharmacotherapeutic actions for
Cardizem.
A client who received succinylcholine (Anectine), a neuromuscular blocking agent, during a surgical
procedure returns to the postoperative unit and is complaining of thirst and wants to drink something.
What assessment is most important for the practical nurse (PN) to check before giving oral liquids?
A) Gag and swallow reflexes.
B) Appetite and interest in food.
C) Sensation and movement of all limbs.
D) Ability to breathe deeply on command.
A) Gag and swallow reflexes.
Feedback:
Anectine, a neuromuscular blocking agent, paralyzes musculoskeletal muscles and the gag reflex. To
reduce the possibility of aspiration, the PN should confirm the return of the client's gag and swallow
reflexes (A) before allowing intake of food or liquids. (B, C, and D) should be assessed but do not have
the priority of initiating oral intake post-anesthesia.
A client who is comatose is admitted after an overdose of baclofen (Lioresal). What nursing action
should the practical nurse (PN) implement?
A) Provide continuous telemetry monitoring.
B) Monitor for signs of respiratory arrest.
C) Administer prescribed naloxone (Narcan).
D) Keep a dose of diazepam at the bedside.
B) Monitor for signs of respiratory arrest.
Feedback:
An overdose of baclofen (Lioresal), a centrally acting muscle relaxant, can cause coma and respiratory
depression that requires respiratory support. Monitoring for early signs of respiratory arrest (B) is
most important so immediate respiratory resuscitation can be provided. Although telemetry (A)
provides close cardiac monitoring, early recognition of respiratory arrest is indicated due to the
actions of Lioresal. Narcan (C) is ineffective for baclofen overdose. (D) is not indicated.
A 35-week gestation primigravida who takes lithium (Eskalith) tells the practical nurse (PN) that she
would like to breastfeed her infant. What information should the PN provide to the client?
A) The medication does not cross the placental barrier.
B) Mood swings will occur if lithium is discontinued.
C) Breast milk should be discarded after each oral dose of lithium.
D) The drug is excreted in breast milk so use formula to feed the infant.
D) The drug is excreted in breast milk so use formula to feed the infant.
Feedback:
Lithium crosses the placental barrier and is excreted in the breast milk, so the client should formula
EVOLVE HESI PHARM PN VERSION 2
EXAM 2024 WITH ACTUAL CORRECT
QUESTIONS AND VERIFIED DETAILED
RATIONALES ANSWERS BY EXPERTS
|FREQUENTLY TESTED QUESTIONS AND
SOLUTIONS |ALREADY GRADED A+
|NEWEST |LATEST UPDATE
|GUARANTEED PASS
A client who is receiving an antibiotic suddenly develops hives. The practical nurse should report that
the client is most likely experiencing which type of drug response?
A) Adverse response.
B) Hypersensitivity reaction.
C) Idiosyncratic reaction.
D) Multiple drug interaction.
B) Hypersensitivity reaction.
Feedback:
Hives, a symptom of a hypersensitivity reaction (B), involve an abnormal immune response and are
not uncommon with the use of antibiotics. Although (A, C, and D) are unexpected pharmacologic
reactions, hives represent a life-threatening allergic response and should be reported to ensure
prompt intervention.
The healthcare provider prescribes cycloplegic and mydriatic ophthalmic drops for a client who is having
a cataract removal. What explanation about the drug actions should the practical nurse (PN) provide the
client?
A) Reduces intraocular pressure.
B) Relieves eye pain.
C) Treats conjunctivitis.
D) Dilates the pupil.
D) Dilates the pupil.
Feedback:
Cycloplegic drugs cause ciliary paralysis, and mydriatics dilate the pupil (D), which facilitates access
into the anterior chamber for removal of the lens in cataract surgery. (A, B, and C) are incorrect
actions.
,2|Page
The practical nurse (PN) is assessing a client who takes olanzapine (Zyprexa), an antipsychotic. Which
side effect should the PN most likely note in this client?
A) Insomnia and irritability.
B) Hand tremors and tearing.
C) Nausea and frontal headache.
D) Weight gain and constipation.
D) Weight gain and constipation.
Feedback:
Olanzapine (Zyprexa), an atypical antipsychotic, causes orthostatic hypotension, weight gain, and
anticholinergic effects, such as constipation (D). Common anticholinergic side effects include dry
mouth, blurred vision, nasal stuffiness, weight gain, difficulty urinating, decreased sweating, increased
sensitivity to sunlight, and constipation (D). (A, B, and C) are not expected side effects of this
medication.
The practical nurse (PN) discusses antihypertensive drug therapy with several clients diagnosed with
high blood pressure. To improve client understanding, the PN should emphasize that which medication
preserves renal function in a client with diabetes?
A) Verapamil (Calan).
B) Captopril (Capoten).
C) Clonidine (Catapres).
D) Nifedipine (Procardia).
B) Captopril (Capoten).
Feedback:
Hypertension contributes to diabetic nephropathy, and angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE)
inhibitors, such as captopril (B), slow progression of renal damage for clients with diabetes by
reducing blood pressure, contributing to blood sugar control by increasing the body's sensitivity to
insulin, and moving glucose from the bloodstream into cells. Verapamil (A), nifedipine (D), and
clonidine (C) are used the treatment of hypertension, but do not provide the same effects on blood
glucose as captopril does for clients with diabetes.
A client with schizophrenia has been taking clozapine (Clozaril) for several months. The practical nurse
(PN) monitors the client for extrapyramidal symptoms (EPS). Which reason supports the PN's
assessment?
A) Prolonged use of antidepressant medications reduce skeletal muscle tone.
B) The excess amount of norepinephrine causes an increase in blood pressure.
C) The increased availability of serotonin affects mood and behavior.
D) Atypical antipsychotics can deplete the brain's supply of dopamine.
D) Atypical antipsychotics can deplete the brain's supply of dopamine.
Feedback:
The use of an atypical antipsychotic, such as clozapine, should include an assessment of
musculoskeletal functioning for signs and symptoms of any EPS reaction that can occur from a lack of
the brain neurotransmitter dopamine (D). (A, B, and C) do not explain the cause of EPS.
,3|Page
A client who is transferred to the cardiac rehabilitation unit after a myocardial infarction is ready for
discharge with a new prescription for metoprolol (Lopressor). The client asks, I don't have high blood
pressure, so why did my healthcare provider give me this medicine? What information should the
practical nurse (PN) provide?
A) Anticoagulation is the most important action of metoprolol.
B) Beta-blockers are routinely prescribed after heart damage.
C) Heart failure is prevented as a complication while healing.
D) A slower heart rate reduces the heart's oxygen demand.
D) A slower heart rate reduces the heart's oxygen demand.
Feedback:
Lopressor, a beta-blocker, slows the heart rate and is prescribed after a myocardial infarction to
reduce the heart's work load and oxygen demand (D). (A, B, and D) are incorrect.
Which serum laboratory result should the practical nurse (PN) monitor for the effectiveness of lactulose
(Cephulac)?
A) Ammonia.
B) Potassium.
C) Uric acid.
D) Triglycerides.
A) Ammonia.
Feedback:
Lactulose reduces blood ammonia (A) levels to improve mental status of a client with hepatic
encephalopathy resulting from cirrhosis or other liver problems. Changes in (B, C, and D) do not
evaluate the therapeutic response of lactulose.
The practical nurse (PN) is caring for a client who is receiving dexamethasone (Decadron) after
abdominal surgery. Which finding should the PN report to the charge nurse?
A) Weight loss.
B) Impaired healing.
C) Bradycardia.
D) Hyperkalemia.
B) Impaired healing.
Feedback:
Glucocorticoids, such as Decadron, are used in the treatment of allergic, inflammatory, and
debilitating conditions. A common side of exogenous corticosteroid therapy is hyperglycemia and
delayed wound healing (B). (A, C, and D) are side effects not associated with the administration of
Decadron.
The practical nurse (PN) is reinforcing teaching for a client who is receiving diltiazem (Cardizem), a
calcium channel blocker. Which drug action should the practical nurse explain?
A) Increased force of contraction.
B) Decreased rate of contraction.
C) Decreased peripheral resistance.
D) Increased speed of conduction.
, 4|Page
B) Decreased rate of contraction.
Feedback:
Calcium-channel blockers decrease cardiac contractility (inotropy), atrioventricular-node conduction
(dromotropy), and heart rate (chronotropy) (B). (A, C, and D) are not pharmacotherapeutic actions for
Cardizem.
A client who received succinylcholine (Anectine), a neuromuscular blocking agent, during a surgical
procedure returns to the postoperative unit and is complaining of thirst and wants to drink something.
What assessment is most important for the practical nurse (PN) to check before giving oral liquids?
A) Gag and swallow reflexes.
B) Appetite and interest in food.
C) Sensation and movement of all limbs.
D) Ability to breathe deeply on command.
A) Gag and swallow reflexes.
Feedback:
Anectine, a neuromuscular blocking agent, paralyzes musculoskeletal muscles and the gag reflex. To
reduce the possibility of aspiration, the PN should confirm the return of the client's gag and swallow
reflexes (A) before allowing intake of food or liquids. (B, C, and D) should be assessed but do not have
the priority of initiating oral intake post-anesthesia.
A client who is comatose is admitted after an overdose of baclofen (Lioresal). What nursing action
should the practical nurse (PN) implement?
A) Provide continuous telemetry monitoring.
B) Monitor for signs of respiratory arrest.
C) Administer prescribed naloxone (Narcan).
D) Keep a dose of diazepam at the bedside.
B) Monitor for signs of respiratory arrest.
Feedback:
An overdose of baclofen (Lioresal), a centrally acting muscle relaxant, can cause coma and respiratory
depression that requires respiratory support. Monitoring for early signs of respiratory arrest (B) is
most important so immediate respiratory resuscitation can be provided. Although telemetry (A)
provides close cardiac monitoring, early recognition of respiratory arrest is indicated due to the
actions of Lioresal. Narcan (C) is ineffective for baclofen overdose. (D) is not indicated.
A 35-week gestation primigravida who takes lithium (Eskalith) tells the practical nurse (PN) that she
would like to breastfeed her infant. What information should the PN provide to the client?
A) The medication does not cross the placental barrier.
B) Mood swings will occur if lithium is discontinued.
C) Breast milk should be discarded after each oral dose of lithium.
D) The drug is excreted in breast milk so use formula to feed the infant.
D) The drug is excreted in breast milk so use formula to feed the infant.
Feedback:
Lithium crosses the placental barrier and is excreted in the breast milk, so the client should formula
