HESI Practice Test Pharmacology Related

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A client prescribed glipizide asked why they had to take their insulin orally. How should the practical nurse respond?

  • A. Glipizide is not an oral form of insulin and can be used only when some beta cell function is present.
  • B. Glipizide is an oral form of insulin and is distributed, metabolized, and excreted in the same manner as insulin.
  • C. Glipizide is an oral form of insulin and has the same actions and properties as intermediate insulin.
  • D. Glipizide is not an oral form of insulin, but it is effective for those who are resistant to injectable insulins.
Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The practical nurse should explain to the client that glipizide is not an oral form of insulin but an oral hypoglycemic agent. Glipizide works by enhancing pancreatic production of insulin when some beta cell function is present. It is not a replacement for insulin but helps the body produce more insulin. Therefore, it can be used when there is still some beta cell function present, unlike insulin which is used when there is a deficiency of endogenous insulin production.