HESI RN
HESI Fundamentals Practice Exam
1. A client with a history of coronary artery disease (CAD) is admitted with chest pain. Which intervention should the nurse implement first?
- A. Administer sublingual nitroglycerin
- B. Obtain a 12-lead electrocardiogram (ECG)
- C. Apply oxygen via nasal cannula
- D. Initiate continuous cardiac monitoring
Correct answer: C
Rationale: In a client with a history of coronary artery disease (CAD) experiencing chest pain, the priority intervention for the nurse to implement first is to apply oxygen via nasal cannula. Oxygenation is crucial to ensure adequate oxygen supply to the tissues and the heart. This intervention takes precedence over administering sublingual nitroglycerin, obtaining an ECG, or initiating continuous cardiac monitoring. While these interventions are important, ensuring adequate oxygenation is the initial priority in the management of a client with chest pain.
2. Which assessment data would provide the most accurate determination of proper placement of a nasogastric tube?
- A. Aspirating gastric contents to assure a pH value of 4 or less.
- B. Hearing air pass in the stomach after injecting air into the tubing.
- C. Examining a chest x-ray obtained after the tubing was inserted.
- D. Checking the remaining length of tubing to ensure that the correct length was inserted.
Correct answer: C
Rationale: The most accurate method to confirm the proper placement of a nasogastric tube is by examining a chest x-ray obtained after the tubing was inserted. This visual assessment allows healthcare providers to directly visualize the position of the tube in relation to anatomical landmarks, ensuring it is correctly placed in the stomach. Aspirating gastric contents or hearing air pass may provide some information but are not as definitive as a chest x-ray for confirming placement. Checking the remaining length of tubing is not a reliable method for determining proper placement as it does not indicate where the tip of the tube lies within the body.
3. During the insertion of a nasogastric tube (NGT), the client begins to cough and gag. What action should the healthcare professional take?
- A. Stop advancing the tube and allow the client to rest
- B. Remove the tube and try again after a few minutes
- C. Continue inserting the tube while the client sips water
- D. Withdraw the tube slightly and pause before continuing
Correct answer: D
Rationale: When a client begins to cough and gag during the insertion of a nasogastric tube, withdrawing the tube slightly and pausing is the appropriate action. This technique helps prevent further irritation, gives the client a moment to recover, and allows for a smoother continuation of the insertion process. Choice A is incorrect because allowing the client to rest without adjusting the tube position might not address the issue. Choice B is incorrect as removing the tube without addressing the cause of coughing and gagging may lead to repeated discomfort. Choice C is incorrect as continuing to insert the tube while the client is experiencing difficulties can increase discomfort and potential complications.
4. A client with a diagnosis of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is receiving oxygen via nasal cannula at 4 liters per minute. Which assessment finding indicates a need for immediate action?
- A. The client's respiratory rate is 14 breaths per minute.
- B. The client's oxygen saturation is 92%.
- C. The client reports shortness of breath.
- D. The client's respiratory rate is 24 breaths per minute.
Correct answer: C
Rationale: A report of shortness of breath (C) indicates that the client is not tolerating the oxygen therapy well and may need an adjustment. Shortness of breath is a critical symptom in a client with COPD, as it signifies potential respiratory distress. A respiratory rate of 14 (A) is within an acceptable range for a client with COPD and does not require immediate action. An oxygen saturation of 92% (B) is slightly lower but still acceptable in COPD patients. Although a respiratory rate of 24 (D) is higher, it is not as immediately concerning as shortness of breath in this context.
5. The healthcare provider is assessing the nutritional status of several clients. Which client has the greatest nutritional need for additional intake of protein?
- A. A college-age track runner with a sprained ankle.
- B. A lactating woman nursing her 3-day-old infant.
- C. A school-aged child with Type 2 diabetes.
- D. An elderly man being treated for a peptic ulcer.
Correct answer: B
Rationale: A lactating woman (B) has the greatest need for additional protein intake. Lactation increases the metabolic demands for protein to support milk production, making it essential for the mother to have a higher protein intake. While clients in choices A, C, and D also require protein for various reasons, they do not have the same increased protein demands as a lactating woman. Choice A, a college-age track runner with a sprained ankle, may need protein for tissue repair but not at the level required during lactation. Choice C, a school-aged child with Type 2 diabetes, may benefit from protein for overall health but does not have the same increased protein needs as a lactating woman. Choice D, an elderly man being treated for a peptic ulcer, may need protein for healing but not to the extent required by a lactating woman.
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