HESI LPN
HESI PN Exit Exam
1. After a laparoscopic cholecystectomy, what is the most important instruction the nurse should give the client regarding post-operative care at home?
- A. Avoid lifting heavy objects for at least a week.
- B. Follow a low-fat diet.
- C. Monitor the incision sites for signs of infection.
- D. Resume normal activities as tolerated.
Correct answer: C
Rationale: Monitoring the incision sites for signs of infection is crucial after a laparoscopic cholecystectomy. Infections can lead to serious complications if not detected early. While avoiding heavy lifting and following a low-fat diet are important aspects of recovery, monitoring for infection takes precedence as it directly impacts the client's immediate post-operative well-being. Therefore, option C is the correct answer as it addresses the most critical aspect of post-operative care.
2. A client with diabetes mellitus type 2 is prescribed glyburide. The nurse should monitor for which potential adverse effect?
- A. Hypoglycemia
- B. Weight gain
- C. Nausea
- D. Hyperglycemia
Correct answer: A
Rationale: The correct potential adverse effect to monitor for when a client with diabetes mellitus type 2 is prescribed glyburide is hypoglycemia. Glyburide can lead to hypoglycemia, particularly in individuals who do not eat regularly, by stimulating the release of insulin from the pancreas, which can lower blood sugar levels. It is crucial for the nurse to monitor for signs and symptoms of hypoglycemia, such as confusion, sweating, and palpitations, to prevent complications and provide timely interventions.
3. Which of the following is a priority for the nurse to include in the teaching of a client who was recently prescribed alprazolam (Xanax) as an oral medication?
- A. Monitor heart rate before taking the medication
- B. Monitor temperature daily
- C. Avoid unprotected exposure to sunlight
- D. Avoid alcohol
Correct answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D: 'Avoid alcohol.' Alprazolam (Xanax) can have central nervous system depressant effects, which are exacerbated by alcohol. It is crucial to avoid alcohol while taking this medication to prevent severe sedation and respiratory depression. Monitoring heart rate (choice A) is not directly related to alprazolam administration. Monitoring temperature daily (choice B) is not a priority teaching point for a client prescribed alprazolam. Avoiding unprotected exposure to sunlight (choice C) is not specifically linked to the use of alprazolam.
4. Why should the nurse closely monitor the IV flow rate for a 5-month-old infant with severe diarrhea receiving IV fluids?
- A. Limiting output
- B. Replacing lost fluids
- C. Avoiding IV infiltration
- D. Preventing cardiac overload
Correct answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D: Preventing cardiac overload. Infants are highly vulnerable to fluid overload, making it essential to carefully monitor IV flow rates to prevent complications such as cardiac overload. Rapid administration of IV fluids can lead to an excessive increase in circulating volume, potentially causing cardiac strain or heart failure in infants. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect. Monitoring the IV flow rate is not primarily aimed at limiting output, replacing lost fluids, or avoiding IV infiltration in this scenario. The key concern is to prevent the risk of cardiac overload due to the infant's susceptibility to fluid imbalances.
5. What is an episiotomy?
- A. A surgical incision of the perineum to prevent tearing during delivery.
- B. Releasing the red plug from the cervix just before crowning occurs.
- C. An incision in the abdomen with which the baby can be delivered through.
- D. The severance of the umbilical cord between mother and child.
Correct answer: A
Rationale: An episiotomy is a surgical incision of the perineum to prevent tearing during delivery. This procedure is performed to widen the vaginal opening and facilitate childbirth. Choice B is incorrect as it describes the expulsion of the mucus plug, not an episiotomy. Choice C is incorrect as it refers to a different procedure, a cesarean section, where the baby is delivered through an incision in the abdomen. Choice D is incorrect as it pertains to cutting the umbilical cord, which is not related to an episiotomy.