Evolve HESI Practice Exam 2025 - Free HESI Practice Questions and Study Guide

The potential risks associated with incorrect dosages of Secobarbital primarily include the increased risk of sedation or respiratory depression. Secobarbital is a barbiturate that acts as a central nervous system depressant. When administered in incorrect dosages, particularly overdoses, it can lead to excessive sedation, significantly impairing a person's ability to stay awake or respond. More critically, this over-sedation can cause respiratory depression, where the body's ability to breathe effectively is diminished. This can lead to severe complications, including hypoxia (insufficient oxygen supply) and could be life-threatening.

In contrast, the other options do not accurately reflect the primary risks associated with improper dosing of this medication. While heart failure can be a result of various factors, it is not directly tied to Secobarbital dosage errors. Additionally, hypertension and stress are generally not consequences of barbiturate use; rather, they are often more associated with stimulant use. Lastly, the assertion that incorrect dosages would lead to a lower risk of insomnia does not apply here; rather, the opposite is true, as incorrect dosages can potentially exacerbate sleep disturbances rather than mitigate them.