HESI LPN
Medical Surgical Assignment Exam HESI
1. What is the main characteristic of cystic fibrosis?
- A. Multiple upper respiratory infections
- B. An underproduction of exocrine glands
- C. Excessive, thick mucus
- D. An overproduction of thin mucus
Correct answer: C
Rationale: The main characteristic of cystic fibrosis is the production of excessive, thick mucus. This thick mucus leads to blockages in the airways, digestive system, and other organs. Choice A is incorrect because while individuals with cystic fibrosis are more prone to respiratory infections, the main characteristic is the mucus production. Choice B is incorrect as cystic fibrosis is characterized by the overproduction, not underproduction, of exocrine glands. Choice D is also incorrect as the mucus produced in cystic fibrosis is thick, not thin.
2. What is a causative factor of Hirschsprung disease?
- A. Frequent evacuation of solids, liquid, and gases
- B. Excessive peristaltic movement
- C. The absence of parasympathetic ganglion cells in a portion of the colon
- D. One portion of the bowel telescoping into another
Correct answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: The absence of parasympathetic ganglion cells in a portion of the colon is a causative factor of Hirschsprung disease. This absence leads to the inability of the affected segment of the colon to relax, causing a functional obstruction. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect. Frequent evacuation of solids, liquid, and gases, excessive peristaltic movement, and one portion of the bowel telescoping into another are not causative factors of Hirschsprung disease.
3. The nurse assesses an adult male client 24 hours following abdominal surgery and finds that his blood pressure is 98/40 mm Hg, he is tachycardic, restless, and irritable. Which action should the nurse take first?
- A. Notify the healthcare provider of the findings.
- B. Ensure that the IV is infusing at the prescribed rate.
- C. Listen to lung sounds.
- D. Check under his back for evidence of bleeding.
Correct answer: D
Rationale: In this scenario, the nurse should first check under the client for evidence of bleeding. A blood pressure of 98/40 mm Hg, along with tachycardia, restlessness, and irritability, could indicate internal hemorrhage following abdominal surgery. Checking for bleeding under the back is crucial to rule out this life-threatening complication. Notifying the healthcare provider, ensuring IV infusion, or listening to lung sounds can be important but are secondary to ruling out immediate life-threatening conditions like internal bleeding.
4. What are priority nursing interventions designed to do for a 4-year-old child with cerebral palsy?
- A. Assist with referral to specialized education.
- B. Support the child with independent toileting.
- C. Assist the child to develop effective communication.
- D. Encourage the child to ambulate independently.
Correct answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: 'Assist the child to develop effective communication.' Children with cerebral palsy often face challenges with communication skills. Therefore, priority nursing interventions aim to help them improve their communication abilities. Choice A is incorrect because while education is important, the priority for a child with cerebral palsy is to address immediate needs. Choice B is incorrect as toileting, although important, is not the priority in this case. Choice D is incorrect as ambulation may not be feasible or the most critical concern for a child with cerebral palsy.
5. A client with chronic heart failure is experiencing dyspnea and has an oxygen saturation of 88%. Which position is most appropriate to improve oxygenation?
- A. Supine with legs elevated
- B. High Fowler's position
- C. Prone with pillows under the chest
- D. Side-lying with head flat
Correct answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: High Fowler's position. High Fowler's position is the most appropriate for a client with chronic heart failure experiencing dyspnea and low oxygen saturation. This position helps improve lung expansion and oxygenation by maximizing chest expansion and allowing better ventilation. Choice A, supine with legs elevated, may worsen dyspnea by reducing lung expansion. Choice C, prone with pillows under the chest, is not suitable for a client experiencing dyspnea as it may further compromise breathing. Choice D, side-lying with head flat, does not facilitate optimal lung expansion and is not the best choice for improving oxygenation in this scenario.
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