LPN LPN: Pharmacological Therapies 3

Question 1

A patient prescribed digoxin has a heart rate of 52 bpm before the morning dose. What is the priority action?

Accepted Answer

Hold the dose and notify the provider

Answer

Digoxin should be held and the provider notified when the apical pulse is below 60 bpm in adults, as bradycardia is a sign of toxicity.

Question 2

Which assessment finding is most concerning in a patient receiving long-term corticosteroid therapy?

Accepted Answer

Blood glucose of 145 mg/dL

Answer

Corticosteroids cause hyperglycemia by stimulating gluconeogenesis and impairing insulin sensitivity, requiring close glucose monitoring.

Question 3

An LPN is preparing to administer insulin. Which type of insulin is the ONLY type that can be given intravenously?

Accepted Answer

Regular insulin

Answer

Regular insulin is the only insulin formulation approved for intravenous administration; all others are given subcutaneously.

Question 4

A patient is prescribed lisinopril for hypertension and develops a persistent dry cough. What is the nurse's best response?

Accepted Answer

Document the finding and report it to the provider

Answer

A persistent dry cough is a common side effect of ACE inhibitors like lisinopril and should be reported so an alternative medication class can be considered.

Question 5

Which instruction should the nurse provide to a patient starting atorvastatin (Lipitor)?

Accepted Answer

'Report muscle pain or weakness to your provider promptly.'

Answer

Muscle pain or weakness (myopathy) can be an early sign of rhabdomyolysis, a serious and potentially fatal side effect of statin therapy.

LPN - Licensed Practical Nurse Practice Test

LPN - Licensed Practical Nurse Practice Test

LPN LPN: Pharmacological Therapies 3