HESI LPN
HESI Mental Health Practice Questions
1. A client is admitted with a diagnosis of depression. The nurse knows that which characteristic is most indicative of depression?
- A. Grandiose ideation.
- B. Self-destructive thoughts.
- C. Suspiciousness of others.
- D. A negative view of self and the future.
Correct answer: D
Rationale: A negative view of self and the future (D) is a prominent characteristic of depression. It reflects the core symptoms of low self-esteem and hopelessness that are commonly associated with this condition. Grandiose ideation (A) and suspiciousness of others (C) are more indicative of other mental health disorders like paranoia. While self-destructive thoughts (B) can be present in depression, they are not as specific and common as the negative self-view and hopelessness, making option (D) the most indicative characteristic of depression.
2. When evaluating the laboratory report of a 1-year-old infant’s hematocrit, a healthcare professional compares it with the expected hematocrit range for this age group. What is the hematocrit of a healthy 12-month-old infant?
- A. 19% to 32%
- B. 29% to 41%
- C. 37% to 47%
- D. 42% to 69%
Correct answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: 37% to 47%. The normal hematocrit range for a 12-month-old infant is between 37% to 47%, which reflects the expected blood volume and red blood cell levels for this age. Choice A (19% to 32%) and Choice B (29% to 41%) are too low and do not encompass the typical hematocrit range for a healthy 1-year-old. Choice D (42% to 69%) is too high and falls outside the usual hematocrit values for this age group.
3. Which of the following best describes the role of insulin in the body?
- A. Insulin helps break down glucose into energy for the body
- B. Insulin facilitates the movement of glucose into cells
- C. Insulin converts excess glucose into fat for storage
- D. Insulin increases the breakdown of protein into amino acids
Correct answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Insulin facilitates the movement of glucose into cells. Insulin is a hormone that helps regulate blood sugar levels by promoting the uptake of glucose from the bloodstream into cells, where it can be used for energy production. Choice A is incorrect because insulin doesn't break down glucose but rather helps cells take up glucose. Choice C is incorrect as insulin does not directly convert glucose into fat; excess glucose is stored as fat by other processes. Choice D is incorrect as insulin does not increase the breakdown of protein into amino acids; its primary role is in glucose metabolism.
4. Which statement about adjuvant medications is true and accurate?
- A. Licensed practical nurses can administer adjuvant medications.
- B. Adjuvant medications are schedule 2 narcotics.
- C. Adjuvant medications are schedule 1 narcotics.
- D. Adjuvant medications can be purchased over the counter.
Correct answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D because adjuvant medications are often available over the counter without a prescription. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect. Choice A is incorrect because licensed practical nurses can administer adjuvant medications depending on their scope of practice. Choices B and C are incorrect because adjuvant medications are not classified as schedule 1 or schedule 2 narcotics.
5. A client who has a terminal illness asks several questions about the nurse's religious beliefs related to death and dying. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?
- A. Encourage the client to express their thoughts about death and dying
- B. Share the nurse's personal beliefs about death and dying
- C. Redirect the client to a chaplain or spiritual advisor
- D. Provide a brief overview of common religious beliefs about death and dying
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Encouraging the client to express their thoughts allows them to explore their own feelings and concerns about death. This approach empowers the client to reflect on their beliefs and values without the influence of the nurse's personal beliefs (choice B), which should remain separate in a professional setting. Redirecting the client to a chaplain or spiritual advisor (choice C) may be appropriate if the client seeks specific spiritual guidance. Providing a brief overview of common religious beliefs (choice D) may not address the client's individual questions and concerns.