HESI LPN
Community Health HESI Questions
1. A client has been admitted for meningitis. In reviewing the laboratory analysis of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), the nurse would expect to note
- A. High protein
- B. Clear color
- C. Elevated sed rate
- D. Increased glucose
Correct answer: A
Rationale: High protein levels in the cerebrospinal fluid are indicative of bacterial meningitis, as the presence of bacteria in the CSF leads to increased protein production. Elevated protein levels can be seen in inflammatory conditions like meningitis. Choice B, clear color, is not expected in meningitis as it is typically associated with cloudy or turbid CSF. Elevated sed rate (choice C) and increased glucose (choice D) are not typically associated with the laboratory findings seen in meningitis.
2. The RN is preparing to administer a prescribed dose of haloperidol (Haldol) to a client with schizophrenia. The client begins to exhibit muscle rigidity, fever, and altered mental status. What action should the RN take first?
- A. Administer the haloperidol as prescribed.
- B. Monitor the client's vital signs closely.
- C. Hold the medication and notify the healthcare provider.
- D. Give the client an antipyretic for the fever.
Correct answer: C
Rationale: Muscle rigidity, fever, and altered mental status are symptoms of neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS), a potentially life-threatening reaction to antipsychotic medications. The RN should hold the medication and notify the healthcare provider immediately. Option A is incorrect because administering more of the medication can worsen the symptoms. Option B is not the first priority when the client is experiencing symptoms of NMS. Option D is incorrect as addressing the fever alone does not address the underlying issue of NMS caused by haloperidol.
3. The nurse is working in a community health clinic that serves a diverse population. Which of the following actions best demonstrates cultural competence?
- A. Learning about the cultural practices of the clinic's client population
- B. Providing translation services for non-English speaking clients
- C. Treating all clients the same regardless of their background
- D. Encouraging clients to adopt mainstream health practices
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Learning about the cultural practices of the clinic's client population is the best way to demonstrate cultural competence. This action shows respect for the diverse backgrounds of the clients and helps in providing care that is sensitive to their cultural beliefs and practices. Providing translation services (Choice B) is important for effective communication but may not address the deeper aspects of cultural competence. Treating all clients the same (Choice C) may overlook the unique needs that arise from cultural differences. Encouraging clients to adopt mainstream health practices (Choice D) may not be appropriate or respectful of their cultural traditions and preferences.
4. An adolescent female asks the nurse about taking retinoic acid (Accutane). What guidance should be provided by the nurse?
- A. The medication should be used for 10 weeks only.
- B. The medication requires that sexually active females use contraception.
- C. The medication lowers hemoglobin levels very quickly.
- D. The medication has few side effects.
Correct answer: B
Rationale: The correct guidance the nurse should provide is that sexually active females must use contraception while taking Accutane and for 1 month after the 20 weeks it is prescribed. Choice A is incorrect because Accutane is typically taken for a longer duration than 10 weeks. Choice C is incorrect because Accutane does not lower hemoglobin levels quickly. Choice D is incorrect as Accutane is known for having many side effects, including the risk of birth defects.
5. When caring for a patient with a chest tube, which nursing action is most important?
- A. Clamping the chest tube every 2 hours to prevent air leaks
- B. Keeping the drainage system below chest level
- C. Emptying the drainage system every hour to prevent backflow
- D. Removing the chest tube when drainage decreases significantly
Correct answer: B
Rationale: The most crucial nursing action when caring for a patient with a chest tube is to keep the drainage system below chest level (choice B). This position helps ensure proper drainage and prevents backflow of fluid or air into the pleural space, promoting optimal functioning of the chest tube. Clamping the chest tube every 2 hours (choice A) is incorrect as it can obstruct the drainage system and lead to complications. Emptying the drainage system every hour (choice C) is unnecessary unless there are specific clinical indications. Removing the chest tube when drainage decreases significantly (choice D) is also incorrect as the decision should be based on overall clinical assessment rather than drainage amount alone.