HESI LPN
CAT Exam Practice
1. A 60-year-old male with type 2 diabetes mellitus tells the nurse that he is going to join a gym and start working out. Which information is most important for the nurse to obtain?
- A. Recent serum cholesterol levels
- B. Presence of calf pain during exercise
- C. Average weight gain or loss in the last year
- D. Exercise tolerance test with EKG results
Correct answer: B
Rationale: The most important information for the nurse to obtain in this scenario is the presence of calf pain during exercise. Calf pain during exercise could indicate peripheral vascular issues, such as peripheral artery disease, which is crucial to address before starting an exercise program. High cholesterol levels (choice A) may be important but are not as immediately relevant as assessing for peripheral vascular issues. Average weight gain or loss (choice C) may provide some insight into the patient's overall health status but is not as critical as assessing for potential vascular complications. An exercise tolerance test with EKG results (choice D) may be valuable in assessing cardiovascular fitness but is not as crucial as evaluating for peripheral vascular issues given the patient's symptoms.
2. A child with a diagnosis of diabetes mellitus is being discharged from the hospital. What is important for the nurse to include in the discharge teaching?
- A. Monitor blood glucose levels daily
- B. Administer insulin based on blood glucose levels
- C. Recognize signs of hypoglycemia
- D. Follow a structured meal plan
Correct answer: D
Rationale: Following a structured meal plan is essential for managing diabetes mellitus. It helps regulate blood glucose levels and ensures proper nutrition. Monitoring blood glucose levels daily is important, not just once a day, to maintain control. Administering insulin based on blood glucose levels is crucial but should be done as per the healthcare provider's instructions, not only when blood glucose is high. Recognizing signs of hypoglycemia is important, but it is equally vital to prevent hypoglycemia by adhering to a consistent meal plan and insulin regimen.
3. A client with chronic congestive heart failure should be instructed to contact the home health nurse if which finding occurs?
- A. Weight gain of 2 pounds or more in a 48-hour period
- B. Urinating 4 to 5 times a day
- C. A significant decrease in appetite
- D. Appearance of non-pitting ankle edema
Correct answer: A
Rationale: A rapid weight gain of 2 pounds or more in a 48-hour period may indicate fluid retention and worsening heart failure, requiring prompt medical evaluation and intervention. This finding is crucial in managing chronic congestive heart failure as it signifies a potential exacerbation of the condition. Choices B, C, and D are less concerning in this context. Urinating 4 to 5 times a day is within the normal range for most individuals and may not be directly related to heart failure. A significant decrease in appetite may be due to various factors and might not be an immediate cause for concern in heart failure patients. The appearance of non-pitting ankle edema, although related to heart failure, is a more chronic and less urgent symptom when compared to a rapid weight gain, which requires immediate attention.
4. What action should be taken six days after starting a prescription for oral amoxicillin solution?
- A. Determine if any other symptoms have developed
- B. Advise the use of over-the-counter antipyretics
- C. Instruct the client to increase oral fluid intake
- D. Ask if the medication has been kept refrigerated
Correct answer: A
Rationale: It is important to monitor for any new symptoms that may indicate a worsening condition or side effects when taking oral amoxicillin solution. This proactive approach helps in assessing the effectiveness and safety of the medication.
5. The nurse is caring for a 3-day-old girl with Down syndrome whose mother had no prenatal care. What is the priority nursing diagnosis?
- A. Imbalanced nutrition, less than body requirements related to the effects of hypotonia
- B. Deficient knowledge related to the presence of a genetic disorder
- C. Delayed growth and development related to cognitive impairment
- D. Impaired physical mobility related to poor muscle tone
Correct answer: A
Rationale: The priority nursing diagnosis for a newborn with Down syndrome is often related to feeding difficulties due to hypotonia, making imbalanced nutrition the primary concern. Hypotonia, or poor muscle tone, can lead to challenges with feeding and, subsequently, affect the baby's nutritional intake. While choices B, C, and D may also be concerns for a child with Down syndrome, addressing the immediate need for adequate nutrition takes precedence to ensure the infant's well-being and growth.