HESI LPN
Adult Health Exam 1
1. A client with a diagnosis of hypothyroidism is prescribed levothyroxine (Synthroid). What is the most important instruction the nurse should provide?
- A. Take the medication in the morning on an empty stomach
- B. Take the medication with food
- C. Report any symptoms of hyperthyroidism
- D. Do not discontinue the medication abruptly
Correct answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: 'Report any symptoms of hyperthyroidism.' Symptoms of hyperthyroidism, such as palpitations or tremors, may indicate an excessive dose of levothyroxine and should be reported to the healthcare provider for proper adjustment of the medication. Choice A is incorrect because levothyroxine is usually taken in the morning on an empty stomach to maximize absorption. Choice B is incorrect because taking levothyroxine with food can interfere with its absorption. Choice D is incorrect because discontinuing levothyroxine abruptly can lead to a worsening of hypothyroidism symptoms.
2. When performing nasotracheal suctioning for a client with a respiratory infection, what technique should the nurse use?
- A. Apply intermittent suction when withdrawing the catheter
- B. Suction continuously while inserting the catheter
- C. Suction intermittently while inserting the catheter
- D. Use a Yankauer suction device
Correct answer: A
Rationale: When performing nasotracheal suctioning for a client with a respiratory infection, the nurse should apply intermittent suction when withdrawing the catheter. This technique helps minimize mucosal damage and is considered best practice. Choice B, suctioning continuously while inserting the catheter, is incorrect as continuous suctioning can cause trauma to the airway. Choice C, suctioning intermittently while inserting the catheter, is also incorrect as it can increase the risk of hypoxia and mucosal damage. Choice D, using a Yankauer suction device, is not appropriate for nasotracheal suctioning as it is typically used for oral suctioning. Therefore, the correct technique is to apply intermittent suction when withdrawing the catheter to ensure effective and safe suctioning.
3. What is the first step a healthcare professional should take when preparing to provide tracheostomy care?
- A. Perform hand hygiene
- B. Gather equipment
- C. Explain the procedure
- D. Assess the client
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Performing hand hygiene is the initial step a healthcare professional should take when preparing to provide tracheostomy care. This step is crucial to prevent the transmission of pathogens and reduce the risk of infection to the client. By cleansing the hands, the healthcare professional ensures patient safety. While gathering equipment, explaining the procedure, and assessing the client are essential components of tracheostomy care, they should occur after performing hand hygiene to maintain aseptic technique and minimize the risk of introducing harmful microorganisms to the client.
4. A nurse is caring for a client who wanders through the halls yelling obscenities at staff, other clients, and visitors. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?
- A. Keep the client in their room with the door closed
- B. Contact a family member to come and sit with the client
- C. Place the client in a wheelchair with a lap tray
- D. Administer a sedative to the client
Correct answer: B
Rationale: When dealing with a client exhibiting disruptive behavior like yelling obscenities, involving a family member can provide emotional support and help in de-escalating the situation. Keeping the client isolated in their room (Choice A) may lead to further agitation. Placing the client in a wheelchair (Choice C) or administering a sedative (Choice D) should not be the first interventions for managing behavioral issues.
5. Which of the following parameters would be LEAST reliable when assessing the perfusion status of a 2-year-old child with possible shock?
- A. distal capillary refill
- B. systolic blood pressure
- C. skin color and temperature
- D. presence of peripheral pulses
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Systolic blood pressure is the least reliable parameter when assessing the perfusion status of a 2-year-old child with possible shock. In pediatric patients, especially young children, blood pressure may not decrease until significant shock has already occurred, making it a late indicator of inadequate perfusion. Depending solely on systolic blood pressure to evaluate perfusion status in this age group can lead to a delay in appropriate interventions. Distal capillary refill time, skin color, and temperature changes, and the presence of peripheral pulses are more sensitive and early indicators of perfusion status in pediatric patients. Monitoring distal capillary refill provides information on peripheral perfusion, while changes in skin color and temperature can signal circulatory compromise. Evaluating the presence or absence of peripheral pulses offers insights into vascular perfusion. These parameters offer more reliable and prompt feedback on a child's perfusion status compared to systolic blood pressure.