HESI RN

1. In completing a client's preoperative routine, the nurse finds that the operative permit is not signed. The client begins to ask more questions about the surgical procedure. Which action should the nurse take next?

• A. Witness the client's signature on the permit.
• B. Answer the client's questions about the surgery.
• C. Inform the surgeon that the operative permit is not signed and the client has questions about the surgery.
• D. Reassure the client that the surgeon will answer any questions before the anesthesia is administered.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The nurse should inform the surgeon promptly that the operative permit is not signed and the client has questions about the surgery. It is crucial for the surgeon to be aware of these issues as it is their responsibility to explain the procedure to the client and ensure that the necessary consent is obtained before proceeding with the surgery.

2. When performing sterile wound care in the acute care setting, the nurse obtains a bottle of normal saline from the bedside table that is labeled 'opened' and dated 48 hours prior to the current date. Which is the best action for the nurse to take?

• A. Use the normal saline solution once more and then discard.
• B. Obtain a new sterile syringe to draw up the labeled saline solution.
• C. Use the saline solution and then relabel the bottle with the current date.
• D. Discard the saline solution and obtain a new unopened bottle.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Only newly opened solutions are considered sterile. This solution is not newly opened and is out of date, so it should be discarded.

3. The client reports still being unable to sleep a week after learning progressive muscle relaxation techniques. Which action should the nurse take first?

• A. Instruct the client to add regular exercise to the daily routine.
• B. Determine if the client has been keeping a sleep diary.
• C. Encourage the client to continue the routine until sleep is achieved.
• D. Ask the client to describe the routine currently followed.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The nurse should first assess the client's adherence to the original instructions. By asking the client to describe the routine, the nurse can evaluate if the technique is being correctly implemented before considering further interventions.

4. Which nursing diagnosis has the highest priority when planning care for a client with an indwelling urinary catheter?

• A. Self-care deficit
• B. Functional incontinence
• C. Fluid volume deficit
• D. High risk for infection

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: When caring for a client with an indwelling urinary catheter, the highest priority nursing diagnosis is high risk for infection. Indwelling urinary catheters are a significant source of infection due to their direct contact with the urinary system, making the prevention and management of infections a critical aspect of care. Monitoring for signs of infection, implementing proper catheter care protocols, and ensuring aseptic technique during catheter maintenance are essential to prevent complications associated with catheter-related infections.

5. Which serum laboratory value should the nurse monitor carefully for a client who has had an NG tube for suctioning for the past week?

• A. White blood cell count
• B. Albumin
• C. Calcium
• D. Sodium

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The nurse should carefully monitor serum sodium levels for a client with an NG tube on suction for an extended period due to potential fluid loss and the risk of developing hyponatremia, an electrolyte imbalance. Hyponatremia can occur as a result of continual suctioning leading to fluid loss, making it crucial to monitor sodium levels to prevent complications associated with low sodium levels.