HESI RN
HESI Pediatric Practice Exam
1. A 7-year-old child with type 1 diabetes is brought to the emergency department with abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting. The nurse notes that the child's blood glucose level is 350 mg/dL. What should the nurse do first?
- A. Administer IV fluids as prescribed
- B. Administer insulin as prescribed
- C. Monitor the child's urine output
- D. Check the child's urine for ketones
Correct answer: A
Rationale: In a child with type 1 diabetes presenting with abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and a high blood glucose level, the priority is to administer IV fluids to correct dehydration and electrolyte imbalances, which are crucial in managing diabetic ketoacidosis. Administering insulin without addressing fluid deficits can lead to further complications. While monitoring urine output and checking for ketones are important steps in the care of a child with diabetes, the immediate focus should be on correcting dehydration and electrolyte imbalances through IV fluid administration to stabilize the child's condition.
2. 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.
3. A 14-year-old client with type 1 diabetes is participating in a school sports event. The nurse provides education to the client about managing blood glucose levels during physical activity. Which statement by the client indicates a need for further teaching?
- A. I should check my blood sugar before and after exercise
- B. I need to eat a snack before I start playing
- C. If my blood sugar is high, I should skip my insulin dose before exercise
- D. I should carry a fast-acting carbohydrate with me during sports
Correct answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C. Skipping the insulin dose when blood sugar is high before exercise can be harmful. It is essential to manage blood glucose levels carefully during physical activity, which may require adjustments to insulin doses but skipping doses is not recommended. Checking blood sugar before and after exercise (Choice A) helps in monitoring and managing blood glucose levels. Eating a snack before playing (Choice B) can help maintain blood sugar levels during physical activity. Carrying a fast-acting carbohydrate (Choice D) is important in case of low blood sugar during sports to quickly raise glucose levels. Therefore, the client needs further teaching on the importance of not skipping insulin doses even if blood sugar is high before exercise.
4. The parents of a 10-year-old child with newly diagnosed type 1 diabetes are being taught by the nurse about managing their child’s condition. Which statement by the parents indicates they need further teaching?
- A. We should rotate injection sites to prevent tissue damage
- B. Our child should avoid all sugary foods and drinks
- C. We will monitor blood glucose levels regularly
- D. Our child needs to wear a medical alert bracelet
Correct answer: B
Rationale: It is important for individuals with diabetes to manage their carbohydrate intake, including sugary foods and drinks, rather than completely avoiding them. Sugary foods should be consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet to help maintain stable blood glucose levels.
5. A 16-year-old male client who has been treated in the past for a seizure disorder is admitted to the hospital. Immediately after admission, he begins to have a grand mal seizure. Which action should the nurse take?
- A. Obtain assistance in holding him to prevent injury.
- B. Observe him carefully.
- C. Call a CODE.
- D. Place a padded tongue blade between the teeth.
Correct answer: B
Rationale: During a grand mal seizure, the priority action for the nurse is to ensure the safety of the client. Observing the client carefully allows the nurse to monitor the seizure activity, the client's breathing, and any signs of distress without interfering with the seizure process. Restraining the client or placing objects in the mouth can lead to injury and should be avoided. Calling a CODE is not appropriate for a seizure as it is a normal response to the client's condition.
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