HESI RN
HESI RN Exit Exam 2023
1. A client with a spinal cord injury is admitted to the ICU. Which nursing intervention is most important to include in this client's plan of care?
- A. Monitor for signs of autonomic dysreflexia.
- B. Implement measures to prevent pressure ulcers.
- C. Perform passive range of motion exercises.
- D. Ensure that the client is turned every two hours.
Correct answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Monitor for signs of autonomic dysreflexia. Autonomic dysreflexia is a life-threatening condition that can occur in clients with spinal cord injuries, especially those with injuries above the T6 level. It is characterized by a sudden onset of excessively high blood pressure, pounding headache, profuse sweating, and flushing above the level of injury. Failure to recognize and treat autonomic dysreflexia promptly can lead to seizures, stroke, or even death. Therefore, monitoring for signs of autonomic dysreflexia is crucial in clients with spinal cord injuries. Choices B, C, and D are important interventions too, but in the context of a spinal cord injury, monitoring for autonomic dysreflexia takes priority due to its potentially life-threatening nature.
2. Prior to implementing a community health program targeting teenage smoking, which information is most important for the nurse to obtain?
- A. greater access to any healthcare provider
- B. allowance for early discharge
- C. Prevalence and patterns of smoking among teenagers
- D. approval by the network healthcare provider
Correct answer: C
Rationale: The most important information for the nurse to obtain before implementing a community health program targeting teenage smoking is the prevalence and patterns of smoking among teenagers. Understanding this data is crucial to tailor the program to the specific needs and behaviors of the target group, ensuring it addresses the root causes effectively. Choices A, B, and D are unrelated to the specific needs of the target group and do not provide essential information for designing an effective smoking cessation program for teenagers.
3. A client has returned from a cardiac catheterization. Which one of the following assessments would indicate the client is experiencing a complication from the procedure?
- A. Increased blood pressure
- B. Increased heart rate
- C. Loss of pulse in the extremity
- D. Decreased urine output
Correct answer: C
Rationale: Loss of pulse in the extremity can indicate an arterial blockage, requiring immediate medical evaluation. Increased blood pressure and heart rate are common physiological responses after cardiac catheterization and may not necessarily indicate a complication. Decreased urine output is more indicative of renal function and may not be directly related to complications from the procedure.
4. The client with peripheral artery disease has been prescribed clopidogrel (Plavix). The nurse understands that more teaching is necessary when the client states which of the following?
- A. I should not be surprised if I bruise more easily or if my gums bleed a little when brushing my teeth.
- B. It is important to take this medicine with food to enhance its effectiveness and minimize stomach upset.
- C. I should stop taking Plavix if it makes me feel weak and dizzy.
- D. The doctor prescribed this medicine to make my platelets less likely to stick together and help prevent clots from forming.
Correct answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C. Weakness, dizziness, and headache are common adverse effects of Plavix and should be reported. It is essential to consult a physician before stopping Plavix as it plays a crucial role in preventing platelets from sticking together and forming clots. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect. Choice A is a common side effect of Plavix and does not indicate a need for further teaching. Choice B is incorrect because taking Plavix with or without food can affect its absorption and effectiveness. Choice D correctly explains the purpose of prescribing Plavix to prevent clot formation.
5. Incomplete abortion is characterized by:
- A. Heavy bleeding.
- B. Open os.
- C. Severe cramping.
- D. Light bleeding.
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Incomplete abortion is characterized by an open os, which means that the cervix is dilated, allowing for passage of tissue. This condition typically presents with heavy bleeding as parts of the products of conception are expelled. Severe cramping may also be present due to uterine contractions. Therefore, the correct characteristic of incomplete abortion is an open os (Choice B). Choices A, C, and D are incorrect as heavy bleeding and severe cramping are symptoms associated with incomplete abortion, but they do not specifically define it, and light bleeding is not characteristic of incomplete abortion.