NACE Pharmacological and Parenteral Therapies 4

Question 1

A patient receiving total parenteral nutrition (TPN) develops sudden shortness of breath and chest pain after the central line is repositioned. What should the nurse suspect first?

Accepted Answer

Air embolism

Answer

Sudden dyspnea and chest pain after central line manipulation are classic signs of air embolism, a life-threatening complication.

Question 2

Which electrolyte imbalance is most commonly associated with prolonged loop diuretic therapy such as furosemide?

Accepted Answer

Hypokalemia

Answer

Loop diuretics inhibit potassium reabsorption in the loop of Henle, making hypokalemia the most common electrolyte complication.

Question 3

A nurse is preparing to administer heparin 5,000 units subcutaneously. Which action is correct?

Accepted Answer

Do not rub the injection site after administration

Answer

Rubbing a subcutaneous heparin injection site can cause bruising and hematoma formation, so it should be avoided.

Question 4

A patient is receiving IV vancomycin and develops flushing, erythema, and hypotension during the infusion. What is the most likely cause?

Accepted Answer

Red man syndrome

Answer

Red man syndrome is a rate-related reaction to rapid vancomycin infusion causing histamine release, resulting in flushing, erythema, and hypotension.

Question 5

Which assessment finding in a patient taking lithium carbonate requires immediate intervention?

Accepted Answer

Serum lithium level of 2.5 mEq/L

Answer

A serum lithium level of 2.5 mEq/L indicates severe toxicity (therapeutic range 0.6–1.2 mEq/L) and requires immediate intervention.

Nursing Acceleration Challenge Exam (NACE) I PN-RN Practice Test

Nursing Acceleration Challenge Exam (NACE) I PN-RN Practice Test

NACE Pharmacological and Parenteral Therapies 4