HESI RN
HESI Medical Surgical Assignment Exam
1. A client recovering from surgery has a large abdominal wound. Which of the following foods, high in vitamin C, should the nurse encourage the client to eat to promote wound healing?
- A. Steak
- B. Veal
- C. Cheese
- D. Oranges
Correct answer: D
Rationale: Oranges are a rich source of vitamin C, which is essential for wound healing due to its role in collagen synthesis. Citrus fruits like oranges, as well as other fruits and vegetables such as strawberries, kiwi, bell peppers, and broccoli, are high in vitamin C. Meats like steak and veal are not significant sources of vitamin C; they are primarily sources of protein. Cheese is not a good source of vitamin C but does provide calcium and protein.
2. An elderly client is admitted to the psychiatric unit with a diagnosis of major depressive disorder. Which assessment finding is most concerning for the nurse?
- A. Weight loss of 5 pounds in one week.
- B. Lack of interest in previously enjoyed activities.
- C. Disorganized speech and thought processes.
- D. Severe fatigue and low energy levels.
Correct answer: C
Rationale: In an elderly client with major depressive disorder, disorganized speech and thought processes are the most concerning assessment findings for the nurse. These symptoms can suggest a more severe condition such as psychosis or cognitive impairment, which require immediate attention and intervention. While weight loss, lack of interest in activities, severe fatigue, and low energy levels are common symptoms of major depressive disorder, they do not pose an immediate risk as disorganized speech and thought processes do. Therefore, the nurse should prioritize addressing the disorganized speech and thought processes to ensure the safety and well-being of the client.
3. Which of the following best describes phenotype?
- A. The hereditary potentials and limitations of an individual
- B. The genetic makeup of an individual organism
- C. The entire complex of genes inherited from both parents
- D. All the observable characteristics of an organism
Correct answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D: 'All the observable characteristics of an organism.' Phenotype refers to all the observable characteristics of an organism, such as physical appearance, behavior, and other traits, which result from the interaction of its genotype with the environment. Choice A is incorrect because it describes genotype. Choice B is incorrect as it defines genotype, not phenotype. Choice C is incorrect as it refers to the genotype, the genetic information inherited from both parents, rather than the observable traits.
4. What is the most effective nursing intervention to prevent atelectasis from developing in a postoperative client?
- A. Maintain adequate hydration
- B. Assist the client to turn, deep breathe, and cough
- C. Ambulate the client within 12 hours
- D. Splint the incision
Correct answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is to assist the client to turn, deep breathe, and cough. This intervention helps to expand the lungs and prevent atelectasis in postoperative clients. Maintaining adequate hydration is important for overall health but is not the most effective intervention for preventing atelectasis. Ambulating the client within 12 hours is beneficial for preventing complications after surgery, but it may not be as directly effective in preventing atelectasis as turning, deep breathing, and coughing. Splinting the incision is important for postoperative care, but it does not specifically address the prevention of atelectasis.
5. A client with a urinary tract infection is prescribed ciprofloxacin. What is the most important teaching the nurse should provide?
- A. Take the medication with milk to prevent stomach upset.
- B. Increase fluid intake to 2-3 liters per day.
- C. Avoid taking the medication with dairy products.
- D. Continue taking the medication even if symptoms improve.
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Ciprofloxacin can cause crystalluria, so increasing fluid intake to 2-3 liters per day helps flush out the medication and prevent crystal formation in the kidneys. This also ensures adequate hydration, which supports the body's ability to fight the infection. Choice A is incorrect because ciprofloxacin should not be taken with dairy products as they can interfere with the absorption of the medication. Choice D is incorrect because although it's important to complete the full course of antibiotics, it's equally crucial to report any improvement in symptoms to the healthcare provider.