HESI RN
HESI Practice Test Pediatrics
1. A 16-year-old female student with a history of asthma controlled with both an oral antihistamine and an albuterol (ProAir) metered-dose inhaler (MDI) comes to the school nurse. The student complains that she cannot sleep at night, feels shaky, and her heart feels like it is 'beating a mile a minute.' Which information is most important for the nurse to obtain?
- A. When she last took the antihistamine.
- B. When her last asthma attack occurred.
- C. Duration of most asthma attacks.
- D. How often the MDI is used daily.
Correct answer: D
Rationale: The most crucial information for the nurse to obtain in this scenario is how often the metered-dose inhaler (MDI) is used daily. This information will help assess if the symptoms of insomnia, shakiness, and palpitations are potentially related to overuse of the inhaler, which can cause side effects such as tremors and palpitations. Monitoring the frequency of MDI usage is essential in managing asthma and ensuring appropriate medication administration.
2. The caregiver is caring for a 2-month-old infant with a diagnosis of bronchiolitis. Which assessment finding would be most concerning to the caregiver?
- A. Nasal flaring and grunting
- B. Coughing and wheezing
- C. Poor feeding and irritability
- D. Increased respiratory rate
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Nasal flaring and grunting are indicative of respiratory distress, suggesting the infant is having difficulty breathing. This finding requires immediate attention as it signifies a more severe respiratory compromise compared to the other symptoms listed.
3. A 10-year-old child is being discharged after being admitted for status asthmaticus. Which instruction is most important for the nurse to include in the discharge teaching?
- A. Use a peak flow meter daily to monitor asthma control
- B. Avoid exposure to known allergens
- C. Continue taking asthma medications as prescribed
- D. Seek emergency care if symptoms worsen
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Using a peak flow meter daily is crucial as it helps monitor asthma control by measuring how well the child's lungs are functioning. This monitoring can indicate when intervention is needed before symptoms worsen or become severe, allowing for timely management of asthma exacerbations.
4. The practical nurse (PN) is caring for an adolescent who has been diagnosed with mononucleosis. Which activity should the PN advise the adolescent to avoid?
- A. Playing video games.
- B. Drinking caffeinated beverages.
- C. Participating in contact sports.
- D. Eating spicy foods.
Correct answer: C
Rationale: Contact sports should be avoided in mononucleosis due to the risk of spleen rupture, which is a serious complication of the disease. The spleen can enlarge in mononucleosis, making it more susceptible to injury from contact sports, potentially leading to a life-threatening situation if rupture occurs.
5. The healthcare provider is preparing to suture a 10-year-old child with a lacerated forehead. Both parents and a 12-year-old sibling are present at the child's bedside. Which instruction best supports family involvement?
- A. While waiting for the healthcare provider, only one visitor may stay with the child.
- B. All of you should leave while the healthcare provider sutures the child's forehead.
- C. It is best if the sibling goes to the waiting room until the suturing is completed.
- D. Please decide who will stay when the healthcare provider begins suturing.
Correct answer: D
Rationale: Involving the family members in deciding who will stay when the healthcare provider begins suturing supports family involvement and helps reduce anxiety for the child. This approach respects the family's dynamics and preferences, promoting a supportive environment during the procedure.
Similar Questions

Access More Features
HESI RN Basic
$69.99/ 30 days
- 50,000 Questions with answers
- All HESI courses Coverage
- 30 days access @ $69.99
HESI RN Premium
$149.99/ 90 days
- 50,000 Questions with answers
- All HESI courses Coverage
- 30 days access @ $149.99