HESI LPN
CAT Exam Practice
1. A client with chronic alcoholism is admitted with a decreased serum magnesium level. Which snack option should the nurse recommend to this client?
- A. Cheddar cheese and crackers
- B. Carrot and celery sticks
- C. Beef bologna sausage slices
- D. Dry roasted almonds
Correct answer: D
Rationale: Dry roasted almonds are the most suitable snack option for a client with chronic alcoholism and a decreased serum magnesium level because they are high in magnesium. Magnesium is essential in addressing the deficiency. Cheddar cheese and crackers (Choice A) do not contain as much magnesium as almonds. Carrot and celery sticks (Choice B) are healthy choices but do not provide a significant amount of magnesium. Beef bologna sausage slices (Choice C) are not a good choice as processed meats are not rich in magnesium.
2. The client is being taught about a low-sodium diet. Which food should the client avoid?
- A. Fresh fruits
- B. Canned vegetables
- C. Fresh chicken
- D. Unsalted nuts
Correct answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Canned vegetables. Canned vegetables are often high in sodium due to the preservation process, so they should be avoided on a low-sodium diet. Fresh fruits (choice A), fresh chicken (choice C), and unsalted nuts (choice D) are all low-sodium options and can be included in a low-sodium diet. It is important to choose fresh or frozen vegetables over canned ones to reduce sodium intake. Fresh chicken and unsalted nuts are also good protein sources that are naturally low in sodium, making them suitable for a low-sodium diet. Therefore, clients following a low-sodium diet should prioritize fresh, whole foods over processed or canned options.
3. The parents of a 2-year-old child tell the nurse that they are having difficulty disciplining their child. What is the nurse’s most appropriate response?
- A. “This is a difficult age that your child is going through right now.”
- B. “Tell me more about your difficulty. I’m not sure what you mean by this.”
- C. “It’s important to be consistent with toddlers when they need disciplining.”
- D. “I can understand what you mean. That’s why this age is called the terrible twos.”
Correct answer: C
Rationale: The most appropriate response for the nurse is to emphasize the importance of consistency in discipline when dealing with toddlers. Toddlers are at an age where they are learning boundaries and acceptable behaviors. By being consistent, parents can help their child understand what is expected of them and establish a sense of structure and routine. Choices A, B, and D do not provide constructive advice or guidance on how to address the issue of disciplining a 2-year-old. Choice A merely acknowledges the age without providing guidance, choice B seeks more information without offering support, and choice D labels the age without offering practical advice on discipline.
4. A 2-year-old child who was admitted to the hospital for further surgical repair of a clubfoot is standing in the crib, crying. The child refuses to be comforted and calls for the mother. As the nurse approaches the crib to provide morning care, the child screams louder. Knowing that this behavior is typical of the stage of protest, what is the most appropriate nursing intervention?
- A. Use comforting measures while holding the child.
- B. Fill the basin with water and proceed to bathe the child.
- C. Sit by the crib and bathe the child later when the anxiety decreases.
- D. Postpone the bath for a day because a child this upset should not be traumatized further.
Correct answer: C
Rationale: During the stage of protest, children may exhibit distress and cling to familiar figures, resisting interactions with others. The most appropriate nursing intervention is to sit by the crib, offer comfort, and wait until the child's anxiety decreases before proceeding with bathing. This approach allows the child to feel supported and gradually transition to accepting care. Choice A is incorrect because forcing comfort may escalate the child's distress. Choice B is inappropriate as it disregards the child's emotional state and rushes into the bathing procedure. Choice D is not ideal as it suggests delaying care for an extended period, which may not address the child's immediate needs for comfort and hygiene.
5. A charge nurse is explaining the various stages of the lifespan to a group of newly licensed nurses. Which of the following examples should the charge nurse include as a developmental task for a young adult?
- A. Becoming actively involved in providing guidance to the next generation.
- B. Adjusting to major changes in roles and relationships due to losses.
- C. Devoting time to establishing an occupation.
- D. Finding oneself 'sandwiched' between and being responsible for two generations.
Correct answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: Devoting time to establishing an occupation. Young adults typically focus on building their careers and personal identities, making establishing an occupation a crucial developmental task for this age group. Choices A, B, and D do not align with the typical developmental tasks of young adults. Choice A relates more to middle adulthood where individuals take on mentoring roles, choice B is more characteristic of the tasks associated with adjusting to late adulthood, and choice D is more relevant to middle adulthood when individuals may find themselves caring for both their own children and aging parents.