HESI LPN
Adult Health 1 Exam 1
1. A client with a diagnosis of hypothyroidism is prescribed levothyroxine (Synthroid). Which symptom should prompt the nurse to notify the healthcare provider?
- A. Weight gain.
- B. Bradycardia.
- C. Nervousness and tremors.
- D. Fatigue.
Correct answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: 'Nervousness and tremors.' In a client with hypothyroidism prescribed levothyroxine, the development of nervousness and tremors may indicate hyperthyroidism, which can result from excessive dosing of levothyroxine. Therefore, the nurse should promptly notify the healthcare provider to adjust the medication dosage. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because weight gain, bradycardia, and fatigue are more commonly associated with hypothyroidism itself, indicating that the levothyroxine therapy may not be effective enough, rather than being signs of excessive dosing.
2. The parents of a newborn with phenylketonuria (PKU) need help and support in adhering to specific dietary restrictions. They ask the nurse, “How long will our child have to be on this diet?” How should the nurse respond?
- A. “We are still not sure; you should discuss this with your health care provider.”
- B. “If your baby does well, foods containing protein can gradually be introduced.”
- C. “Your child needs to be on this diet at least through adolescence and into adulthood.”
- D. “This is a lifelong problem, and it is recommended that dietary restrictions must be continued.”
Correct answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D: “This is a lifelong problem, and it is recommended that dietary restrictions must be continued.” Phenylketonuria (PKU) is a metabolic disorder where the body cannot process phenylalanine properly. The diet for PKU must be continued lifelong to prevent cognitive and developmental issues, as phenylalanine buildup can cause irreversible damage. Choice A is incorrect because the nurse should provide information about the lifelong nature of the dietary restrictions for PKU. Choice B is incorrect as it suggests reintroducing protein-containing foods, which is not recommended for individuals with PKU. Choice C is incorrect as it underestimates the duration of the necessary dietary restrictions for PKU.
3. While measuring a client’s oral temperature using an electronic thermometer, what action should the nurse take?
- A. Assist the client with oral hygiene before taking the temperature.
- B. Inquire whether the client has smoked in the last 30 minutes.
- C. Connect the red tip probe to the thermometer unit.
- D. Position the probe tip against the client’s buccal mucosa.
Correct answer: B
Rationale: The correct action for the nurse to take when measuring a client’s oral temperature using an electronic thermometer is to inquire whether the client has smoked in the last 30 minutes. Smoking can affect the accuracy of oral temperature readings. Providing oral hygiene (Choice A) is not directly related to ensuring accurate temperature measurement. Connecting the red tip probe (Choice C) is not specific to oral temperature measurement accuracy. Positioning the probe tip against the buccal mucosa (Choice D) is incorrect as oral temperature is typically measured under the tongue, not against the cheek.
4. A client with a terminal illness asks the nurse about what would happen if she arrived at the emergency department and had difficulty breathing, despite declining resuscitation in her living will. Which of the following responses should the nurse provide?
- A. We will determine who the durable power of attorney for health care form has designated.
- B. We will apply oxygen through a tube in your nose.
- C. We will ask if you have changed your mind.
- D. We will insert a breathing tube while we evaluate your condition.
Correct answer: B
Rationale: The correct response is to provide oxygen through a tube in the client's nose. Oxygen therapy can offer comfort and support breathing without being considered resuscitative. Therefore, this intervention aligns with the client's wish to decline resuscitation. Option A is not directly related to addressing the client's immediate breathing difficulty. Option C does not acknowledge the client's living will decision. Option D involves a more invasive procedure that may go against the client's wishes to decline resuscitation.
5. A client with major depressive disorder is prescribed a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI). Which side effect should the nurse educate the client about?
- A. Hypertension.
- B. Sexual dysfunction.
- C. Increased appetite.
- D. Weight gain.
Correct answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Sexual dysfunction. Sexual dysfunction is a common side effect of SSRIs. While hypertension (A) can occur with other medications, it is not typically associated with SSRIs. Increased appetite (C) and weight gain (D) are potential side effects of some antidepressants, but sexual dysfunction is more specific to SSRIs. Therefore, the nurse should educate the client about the risk of sexual dysfunction when taking an SSRI.