HESI RN
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1. Nurse Perry is caring for a female client with type 1 diabetes mellitus who exhibits confusion, light-headedness, and aberrant behavior. The client is still conscious. The nurse should first administer:
- A. I.M. or subcutaneous glucagon.
- B. I.V. bolus of dextrose 50%.
- C. 15 to 20 g of a fast-acting carbohydrate such as orange juice.
- D. 10 U of fast-acting insulin.
Correct answer: C
Rationale: For a conscious client with hypoglycemia, the initial treatment should involve administering 15 to 20 g of a fast-acting carbohydrate, such as orange juice. This helps rapidly raise the client's blood glucose levels. Choices A and D are incorrect as administering glucagon or fast-acting insulin is not the first-line treatment for hypoglycemia in a conscious client. Choice B, an I.V. bolus of dextrose 50%, is a more invasive and aggressive intervention that is not typically indicated for a conscious client with hypoglycemia.
2. A client with hyperthyroidism is prescribed methimazole. The nurse should instruct the client that the purpose of this medication is to:
- A. Decrease thyroid hormone production
- B. Increase thyroid hormone production
- C. Suppress the immune system
- D. Prevent thyroid storm
Correct answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Decrease thyroid hormone production. Methimazole works by inhibiting the synthesis of thyroid hormones, specifically by blocking the enzyme responsible for this process. By reducing the production of thyroid hormones, methimazole helps to normalize the elevated levels seen in hyperthyroidism. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect. Choice B, 'Increase thyroid hormone production,' is inaccurate as methimazole actually decreases thyroid hormone production. Choice C, 'Suppress the immune system,' is unrelated to the mechanism of action of methimazole. Choice D, 'Prevent thyroid storm,' is not the primary purpose of methimazole; while it may help prevent worsening of hyperthyroidism, its main action is to reduce thyroid hormone levels.
3. The client with hypothyroidism is being educated by the healthcare provider about taking levothyroxine. Which of the following instructions should be included?
- A. Take the medication with meals
- B. Take the medication at bedtime
- C. Take the medication on an empty stomach in the morning
- D. Take the medication with a glass of milk
Correct answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is to take levothyroxine on an empty stomach in the morning. This instruction is essential to enhance absorption and efficacy of the medication. Taking levothyroxine with meals, at bedtime, or with a glass of milk can interfere with its absorption and effectiveness, leading to suboptimal treatment outcomes.
4. During a physical assessment of a client with type 2 DM, a nurse notes the following findings: fasting blood glucose of 120 mg/dl, temperature of 101°F, pulse 88 bpm, respirations 22/min, and BP 140/84 mmHg. Which finding should concern the nurse the most?
- A. Pulse
- B. BP
- C. Respiration
- D. Temperature
Correct answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is 'Temperature.' A temperature of 101°F indicates a fever, which can be a sign of infection. In individuals with diabetes, infections can lead to significant complications and affect blood glucose control. Monitoring and addressing infections promptly are crucial in individuals with diabetes to prevent worsening of their condition. Choice A, 'Pulse,' is within the normal range (60-100 bpm) and does not indicate an immediate concern. Choice B, 'BP,' while slightly elevated, is not as acutely concerning as an elevated temperature in this scenario. Choice C, 'Respiration,' falls within the normal range (12-20 breaths/min) and is not the most concerning finding among the options provided.
5. Which of the following clinical findings would be most concerning in a client with hypothyroidism?
- A. Bradycardia
- B. Dry skin
- C. Constipation
- D. Depression
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Bradycardia in a client with hypothyroidism is the most concerning finding as it may indicate severe hypothyroidism, leading to decreased heart rate. Bradycardia can be a sign of myxedema coma, a life-threatening condition that requires immediate medical attention. Dry skin, constipation, and depression are common symptoms associated with hypothyroidism but are not as acutely concerning as bradycardia.
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