HESI LPN
HESI CAT Exam 2024
1. A client presents to the healthcare provider with fatigue, poor appetite, general malaise, and vague joint pain that improves mid-morning. The client has been using over-the-counter ibuprofen for several months. The healthcare provider makes an initial diagnosis of rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Which laboratory test should the nurse report to the healthcare provider?
- A. Sedimentation rate
- B. White blood cell count
- C. Anti–CCP antibodies
- D. Activated Clotting Time
Correct answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Sedimentation rate. Sedimentation rate, Anti–CCP antibodies, and C-reactive protein are commonly used laboratory tests to indicate inflammation and help diagnose rheumatoid arthritis. An elevated sedimentation rate is a nonspecific indicator of inflammation in the body, which is often seen in RA. White blood cell count is not specific for RA and is not typically significant in the diagnosis. Anti–CCP antibodies are specific to RA and are useful in confirming the diagnosis. Activated Clotting Time is not relevant to the diagnosis of rheumatoid arthritis as it is not specific to this condition.
2. During a physical examination of a 9-month-old baby, the nurse observes a flat, discolored area on the skin. The nurse documents this as a:
- A. Papule.
- B. Macule.
- C. Vesicle.
- D. Scale.
Correct answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Macule. A macule is a flat, discolored area on the skin that is smaller than 1 cm in diameter. This term is used to describe conditions like freckles or petechiae. Choice A, Papule, refers to a small, solid, raised skin lesion (<0.5 cm) like a pimple. Choice C, Vesicle, describes a small blister filled with clear fluid. Choice D, Scale, refers to flakes or plates of dead skin that may be dry or greasy.
3. What is a common early sign of type 1 diabetes in children?
- A. Excessive thirst and frequent urination
- B. Severe abdominal pain
- C. Frequent headaches
- D. Sudden weight gain
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Excessive thirst and frequent urination are common early signs of type 1 diabetes in children. These symptoms occur due to high blood glucose levels, leading to increased thirst and urination. Severe abdominal pain (choice B) is not typically associated with type 1 diabetes. Although frequent headaches (choice C) can occur in some cases, they are not as specific to type 1 diabetes as excessive thirst and frequent urination. Sudden weight gain (choice D) is not a common early sign of type 1 diabetes; in fact, unexplained weight loss is more characteristic of the condition.
4. What is the main characteristic of cystic fibrosis?
- A. Multiple upper respiratory infections
- B. An underproduction of exocrine glands
- C. Excessive, thick mucus
- D. An overproduction of thin mucus
Correct answer: C
Rationale: The main characteristic of cystic fibrosis is the production of excessive, thick mucus. This thick mucus leads to blockages in the airways, digestive system, and other organs. Choice A is incorrect because while individuals with cystic fibrosis are more prone to respiratory infections, the main characteristic is the mucus production. Choice B is incorrect as cystic fibrosis is characterized by the overproduction, not underproduction, of exocrine glands. Choice D is also incorrect as the mucus produced in cystic fibrosis is thick, not thin.
5. A nurse in a surgical suite notes documentation on a client's medical record stating that he has a latex allergy. In preparation for the client's procedure, which of the following precautions should the nurse take?
- A. Ensure sterilization of non-disposable items with ethylene oxide
- B. Wrap monitoring cords with stockinette and secure them with non-latex tape
- C. Cleanse latex ports on IV tubing with chlorhexidine before administering medication
- D. Wear hypoallergenic latex gloves that are powder-free
Correct answer: B
Rationale: In this scenario, the nurse should take precautions to prevent latex exposure to the client due to his latex allergy. Wrapping monitoring cords with stockinette and securing them with non-latex tape helps to minimize the risk of latex contact with the client. Choice A is incorrect as sterilizing non-disposable items with ethylene oxide does not specifically address the avoidance of latex exposure. Choice C involves using latex ports on IV tubing, which can pose a risk of allergic reaction in a client with a latex allergy. Choice D suggests wearing latex gloves, even if hypoallergenic, which can still trigger a reaction in individuals with latex allergy. Therefore, the best option is to choose non-latex materials like stockinette and non-latex tape to prevent direct contact with latex.