HESI RN
HESI 799 RN Exit Exam
1. A client with a postoperative wound that eviscerated yesterday has an elevated temperature. What is the most important intervention for the nurse to implement?
- A. Initiate contact isolation.
- B. Obtain a wound swab for culture and sensitivity.
- C. Assess temperature every 4 hours.
- D. Use alcohol-based solutions for hand hygiene.
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Obtaining a wound swab for culture and sensitivity is the most important intervention in this situation. It helps identify the presence of infection in the postoperative wound that could be causing the elevated temperature. By obtaining a wound swab, healthcare providers can determine the appropriate treatment needed to address any infection. Initiating contact isolation (Choice A) may be necessary in certain situations but is not the priority in this case. Assessing temperature (Choice C) is important but does not directly address the underlying cause of the elevated temperature. Using alcohol-based solutions for hand hygiene (Choice D) is a standard practice for infection control but is not the most crucial intervention in this scenario.
2. A nurse is reinforcing teaching with the mother of a 9-month-old infant regarding appropriate dietary choices. Which of the following observations by the nurse indicates a need for further teaching?
- A. The infant eats the same foods prepared for the rest of the family.
- B. The mother gives the infant finger foods, such as apple slices for a snack.
- C. The infant drinks 2 quarts of whole milk a day.
- D. The infant drinks from a cup with a cover.
Correct answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C. Infants should not consume more than 24 ounces of milk a day as it can lead to iron deficiency anemia and other issues. Choices A and B demonstrate appropriate dietary choices for a 9-month-old, as they involve providing the infant with family foods and appropriate finger foods. Choice D is also appropriate as it shows the infant is transitioning to drinking from a cup.
3. When suctioning a tracheostomy, which action is most appropriate for the nurse to take?
- A. Use a sterile tube each time and suction for 30 seconds.
- B. Use sterile technique and turn the suction off as the catheter is introduced.
- C. Use clean technique and suction for 10 seconds.
- D. Discard the catheter at the end of every shift.
Correct answer: B
Rationale: When suctioning a tracheostomy, it is crucial to use sterile technique to prevent infections. Turning off the suction as the catheter is introduced is important to avoid trauma and injury to the tracheal walls. This technique helps maintain the integrity of the tracheostomy site and ensures proper care for the patient.
4. When caring for a 5-year-old child with a history of seizures who suddenly begins to have a tonic-clonic seizure, what should the nurse do first?
- A. Administer oxygen
- B. Insert an oral airway
- C. Turn the child to the side
- D. Start an IV line
Correct answer: C
Rationale: During a tonic-clonic seizure, the priority action is to turn the child to the side. This helps maintain an open airway and prevents aspiration of secretions or vomitus. It also helps in keeping the airway clear and promotes safety during the seizure episode. Administering oxygen, inserting an oral airway, and starting an IV line are important interventions but should follow the initial step of positioning the child to prevent airway obstruction.
5. Polyethylene glycol–electrolyte solution (GoLYTELY) is prescribed for a hospitalized client scheduled for a colonoscopy. The client begins to experience diarrhea after drinking the solution. Which action by the nurse is appropriate?
- A. Calling the physician
- B. Administering a cleansing enema
- C. Documenting the diarrhea in the medical record
- D. Giving intravenous replacement fluids in large amounts
Correct answer: C
Rationale: The correct action by the nurse in this situation is to document the diarrhea in the medical record. Polyethylene glycol–electrolyte solution (GoLYTELY) is a bowel evacuant used to cleanse the bowel before a colonoscopy. It is expected to cause mild diarrhea, which is a normal response to the medication. The diarrhea helps clear the bowel in preparation for the procedure. Calling the physician is not necessary unless there are complications. Administering a cleansing enema or giving intravenous replacement fluids in large amounts are not appropriate actions as they are not indicated for managing the expected diarrhea caused by GoLYTELY.