HESI LPN
Medical Surgical HESI 2023
1. A client with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is receiving oxygen therapy at 2 liters per minute via a nasal cannula. Which assessment finding indicates a potential complication of oxygen therapy?
- A. Increased respiratory rate
- B. Decreased level of consciousness
- C. Improved oxygen saturation
- D. Complaints of dry mouth
Correct answer: B
Rationale: In clients with COPD, oxygen therapy can lead to a decrease in the respiratory drive caused by the removal of the hypoxic drive. This can result in carbon dioxide retention, leading to a decreased level of consciousness. Options A, C, and D are incorrect because an increased respiratory rate is typically a sign of hypoxia, improved oxygen saturation is a positive response to oxygen therapy, and complaints of dry mouth are not directly related to oxygen therapy complications in this scenario.
2. When a mother confides in the nurse that she is contemplating divorce, which suggestion by the nurse would help minimize the effects on the child?
- A. Tell the child together using appropriate terms.
- B. Reassure the child that no one loves him more than his parents.
- C. Engage in special activities with the child to compensate for the divorce.
- D. Discuss your feelings with the child.
Correct answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A. It is essential for both parents to inform the child about the divorce together, using age-appropriate language. This approach can help minimize the negative impact on the child by providing a sense of unity and understanding. Choice B is incorrect because offering false reassurance about love may not address the child's concerns effectively, as the situation is complex. Choice C is not suitable as engaging in special activities cannot substitute for the emotional stability that the child may lose due to the divorce. Choice D is incorrect because sharing the parent's feelings may burden the child with adult emotions, which could be overwhelming and confusing for their developmental stage.
3. What is the main objective of palliative care?
- A. To cure the disease
- B. To provide relief from symptoms and improve quality of life
- C. To extend hospital stays
- D. To focus solely on treatment
Correct answer: B
Rationale: The main objective of palliative care is to provide relief from symptoms and improve quality of life. Palliative care focuses on enhancing the quality of life for patients facing serious illnesses by providing relief from symptoms such as pain, stress, and other physical and emotional issues. Choice A is incorrect because palliative care does not aim to cure the disease but rather to manage symptoms. Choice C is incorrect as the goal of palliative care is not to extend hospital stays unnecessarily but to improve the patient's well-being. Choice D is incorrect as palliative care is not solely focused on treatment but takes a holistic approach to care that includes addressing physical, emotional, social, and spiritual needs.
4. How should the nurse transcribe the dosage of this medication on the client's medical record?
- A. 0.3 mg
- B. 0.3 mg
- C. 0.30 mg
- D. 3/10 mg
Correct answer: B
Rationale: The correct way to transcribe the dosage of three tenths of a milligram of levothyroxine IV STAT is 0.3 mg. When expressing decimals less than 1, there should be a leading zero before the decimal point. Choice A is incorrect (.3 mg) because it lacks the leading zero. Choice C (0.30 mg) is incorrect as it includes a trailing zero after the decimal point, which is unnecessary. Choice D (3/10 mg) is incorrect as it presents the dosage as a fraction, which is not the standard format for transcribing medication dosages. Therefore, B (0.3 mg) is the most appropriate and accurate way to document this prescription on the client's medical record.
5. Which assessment finding is most indicative of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) in a client’s right leg?
- A. Dorsiflexes the right foot and left foot on command
- B. A 3 by 5 cm ecchymosis area on the right calf
- C. Right calf is 3 cm larger in circumference than the left calf
- D. Bilateral lower extremities have 3+ pitting edema
Correct answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C because a significant difference in calf circumference between the legs is a classic sign of DVT. This is due to the obstruction of blood flow in the deep veins of the leg, leading to swelling in the affected limb. Choices A, B, and D are not typical findings of DVT. Choice A describes a neurological response, choice B indicates a bruise on the right calf, and choice D describes pitting edema in both lower extremities, which are not specific signs of DVT.