HESI Quizlet Fundamentals

HESI RN

1. A male client with unstable angina needs a cardiac catheterization. The healthcare provider explains the risks and benefits of the procedure and then leaves to set up for the procedure. When the nurse presents the consent form for signature, the client hesitates and asks how the wires will keep his heart going. Which action should the nurse take?

A. Answer the client’s specific questions with a short, understandable explanation
B. Postpone the procedure until the client understands the risks and benefits
C. Call the client’s next of kin and ask them to provide verbal consent
D. Page the healthcare provider to return and provide additional explanation

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The nurse should ask the healthcare provider to return and provide further explanation to the client. The healthcare provider is the one who can address the risks and benefits of the procedure in detail, ensuring the client receives accurate information before providing consent.

2. A client with a history of myocardial infarction (MI) is admitted with chest pain. Which laboratory test should the nurse expect to be ordered to determine if the client is experiencing another MI?

A. Troponin
B. Myoglobin
C. CK-MB
D. C-reactive protein

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Troponin is the most specific and sensitive laboratory test for detecting myocardial infarction (MI). It is released when there is damage to the heart muscle, making it a valuable marker for diagnosing another MI. Myoglobin and CK-MB can also be elevated in MI, but troponin is preferred due to its higher specificity. C-reactive protein is a marker of inflammation and not specific to MI.

3. A client with a diagnosis of anemia is receiving epoetin alfa (Epogen). Which laboratory test should the nurse monitor to evaluate the effectiveness of this medication?

A. White blood cell count.
B. Hemoglobin and hematocrit.
C. Platelet count.
D. Blood urea nitrogen (BUN) and creatinine.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: To evaluate the effectiveness of epoetin alfa (Epogen) in treating anemia, the nurse should monitor hemoglobin and hematocrit levels. These values indicate the oxygen-carrying capacity of the blood, which directly relates to the treatment of anemia. White blood cell count (A), platelet count (C), and blood urea nitrogen (BUN) and creatinine (D) are not specific indicators of the effectiveness of epoetin alfa in treating anemia.

4. An older client who had abdominal surgery 3 days earlier was given a barbiturate for sleep and is now requesting to go to the bathroom. Which action should the nurse implement?

A. Assist the client to walk to the bathroom and do not leave the client alone.
B. Request that the UAP assist the client onto a bedpan.
C. Ask if the client needs to have a bowel movement or void.
D. Assess the client's bladder to determine if the client needs to urinate.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Barbiturates cause central nervous system (CNS) depression, increasing the risk of falls. It is crucial for the nurse to assist the client to the bathroom to prevent potential injuries. Leaving the client alone may lead to accidents due to the effects of the medication. Monitoring and supporting the client during this activity is essential for ensuring safety and preventing falls.

5. When caring for a client in hemorrhagic shock, how should the nurse position the client?

A. Flat in bed with legs elevated.
B. Flat in bed.
C. Trendelenburg position.
D. Semi-Fowler's position.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: When caring for a client in hemorrhagic shock, the nurse should position the client flat in bed with legs elevated. Elevating the legs helps increase venous return to the heart, aiding in the management of hemorrhagic shock by maintaining perfusion to vital organs.