HESI RN
HESI RN Exit Exam
1. A client is admitted for cellulitis surrounding an insect bite on the lower right arm, and intravenous (IV) antibiotic therapy is prescribed. Which action should the nurse implement before performing venipuncture?
- A. Lower the right arm below the level of the heart.
- B. Elevate the right arm on a pillow.
- C. Apply a tourniquet above the insertion site.
- D. Apply a warm compress to the insertion site.
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Before performing venipuncture for IV therapy, the nurse should lower the right arm below the level of the heart. Lowering the arm helps dilate the veins, making it easier to locate and access a suitable vein for the procedure. Elevating the arm on a pillow, applying a tourniquet above the insertion site, or applying a warm compress to the insertion site are not appropriate actions before venipuncture as they can affect the venous blood flow and make the procedure more challenging.
2. A nurse is reviewing the medication list for a client with heart failure. Which medication should the nurse question?
- A. Furosemide
- B. Digoxin
- C. Ibuprofen
- D. Carvedilol
Correct answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: Ibuprofen. Ibuprofen, a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), can cause fluid retention, which may worsen heart failure symptoms. It should be used with caution or avoided in clients with heart failure. Furosemide (choice A) is a diuretic commonly used in heart failure to reduce fluid overload. Digoxin (choice B) is a medication that helps the heart beat stronger and slower, often used in heart failure. Carvedilol (choice D) is a beta-blocker that is beneficial in heart failure management. Therefore, Ibuprofen is the medication that the nurse should question in this scenario.
3. A client with cirrhosis is receiving spironolactone. What electrolyte level should the nurse monitor closely?
- A. Monitor potassium levels.
- B. Monitor sodium levels.
- C. Monitor calcium levels.
- D. Monitor magnesium levels.
Correct answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is to monitor potassium levels. Spironolactone is a potassium-sparing diuretic, which means it helps the body retain potassium and excrete sodium. Monitoring potassium levels closely is essential because spironolactone can cause hyperkalemia (high potassium levels). Sodium levels are not typically affected by spironolactone. Calcium and magnesium levels are also not directly impacted by spironolactone, making choices B, C, and D incorrect.
4. Which of the following is not a role of Reproductive and Child Health Care (RCH) programs?
- A. Awareness about reproductive health
- B. Providing facilities to build a reproductively healthy society
- C. Providing support to reproductively sick people
- D. Promoting abortion
Correct answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D. Promoting abortion is not a role of the Reproductive and Child Health Care (RCH) programs. RCH programs focus on promoting awareness about reproductive health, providing facilities to build a reproductively healthy society, and offering support to reproductively sick individuals. The promotion of abortion is not within the scope of RCH programs, which aim to improve maternal and child health outcomes through education, healthcare services, and support systems.
5. A patient who is taking a potassium-wasting diuretic for the treatment of hypertension complains of generalized weakness. It is most appropriate for the nurse to take which action?
- A. Assess for facial muscle spasms.
- B. Ask the patient about loose stools.
- C. Suggest that the patient avoid orange juice with meals.
- D. Ask the healthcare provider to order a basic metabolic panel.
Correct answer: D
Rationale: Generalized weakness is a sign of hypokalemia, a potential side effect of potassium-wasting diuretics. By requesting a basic metabolic panel, the nurse can assess the patient's potassium levels. Facial muscle spasms are associated with hypocalcemia, not hypokalemia. Advising the patient to avoid orange juice, which is high in potassium, would be counterproductive if the patient is hypokalemic. Loose stools are typically seen in hyperkalemia, not hypokalemia.