HESI RN
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1. A client with DM asks a nurse why it is necessary to rotate injection sites when using an insulin pen. The nurse's best response would be:
- A. To prevent scar tissue from forming under the skin.
- B. To make the injections less painful.
- C. To help the insulin absorb better.
- D. To keep the skin looking healthy.
Correct answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: "To help the insulin absorb better." Rotating injection sites is important as it helps to ensure better insulin absorption and reduces the risk of developing lipodystrophy. Option A is incorrect as rotating sites primarily aims to optimize insulin absorption, not prevent scar tissue. Option B is inaccurate because rotating injection sites does not necessarily make the injections less painful. Option D is incorrect as the primary reason for rotating injection sites is not related to the aesthetics of the skin but rather to enhance insulin absorption and prevent complications.
2. A client with diabetes insipidus is receiving desmopressin therapy. The nurse should monitor for which of the following potential side effects?
- A. Hyponatremia
- B. Hypernatremia
- C. Hypokalemia
- D. Hypercalcemia
Correct answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Hyponatremia. Desmopressin, a medication used to treat diabetes insipidus, can cause the retention of water without sodium, leading to dilutional hyponatremia. This occurs because desmopressin increases water reabsorption in the kidneys without affecting sodium levels. Hypernatremia (choice B) is unlikely because desmopressin does not cause excessive sodium retention. Hypokalemia (choice C) and hypercalcemia (choice D) are not typically associated with desmopressin therapy for diabetes insipidus.
3. A nursing student needs to administer potassium chloride intravenously as prescribed to a client with hypokalemia. The nursing instructor determines that the student is unprepared for this procedure if the student states that which of the following is part of the plan for preparation and administration of the potassium?
- A. Obtaining a controlled IV infusion pump
- B. Monitoring urine output during administration
- C. Diluting an appropriate amount of normal saline
- D. Preparing the medication for bolus administration
Correct answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is preparing the medication for bolus administration (Choice D). Potassium should never be administered as a bolus because it can cause cardiac arrest. It must always be diluted and given slowly. Obtaining a controlled IV infusion pump (Choice A) is essential for accurate delivery, monitoring urine output during administration (Choice B) helps assess the client's response, and diluting an appropriate amount of normal saline (Choice C) is necessary to prevent irritation and ensure safe administration.
4. 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.
5. What clinical feature distinguishes a hypoglycemic reaction from a ketoacidosis reaction?
- A. Blurred vision.
- B. Diaphoresis.
- C. Nausea.
- D. Weakness.
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Diaphoresis is the correct answer because it is more characteristic of hypoglycemia. Hypoglycemia typically presents with symptoms such as diaphoresis (excessive sweating), palpitations, tremors, and anxiety. On the other hand, ketoacidosis is associated with symptoms such as fruity breath, deep and labored breathing (Kussmaul respirations), nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain. Blurred vision can occur in both hypoglycemia and ketoacidosis due to metabolic disturbances affecting the eyes. Weakness is a nonspecific symptom that can be present in both conditions, making it less helpful in distinguishing between the two.
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