HESI LPN
Fundamentals HESI
1. A client with Parkinson's disease is being discharged. Which statement by the client indicates a need for further teaching?
- A. I will take my medication at the same time every day.
- B. I will increase my fiber intake to prevent constipation.
- C. I will perform range of motion exercises to maintain mobility.
- D. I will stop taking my medication if I feel better.
Correct answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D. Patients with Parkinson's disease should not stop taking their medication if they feel better, as doing so can worsen symptoms. It is crucial for patients to continue their prescribed medication regimen as directed by their healthcare provider. Choices A, B, and C are all appropriate actions that promote the well-being of a client with Parkinson's disease. Choice A emphasizes medication adherence, which is vital for symptom management. Choice B addresses a common issue in Parkinson's patients and shows an understanding of the importance of dietary management. Choice C highlights the significance of physical activity in maintaining mobility, which is essential for overall quality of life in Parkinson's disease.
2. What is the most effective way to communicate with a patient who has expressive aphasia?
- A. Asking yes or no questions
- B. Encouraging the patient to write responses
- C. Using picture boards or communication cards
- D. Speaking slowly and clearly
Correct answer: C
Rationale: The most effective way to communicate with a patient who has expressive aphasia is by using picture boards or communication cards. These tools allow patients to convey their needs and responses more effectively when they struggle to speak. Using picture boards or communication cards (Choice C) is preferred as it provides a visual aid to support communication. Asking yes or no questions (Choice A) may limit the patient's ability to express themselves fully. Encouraging the patient to write responses (Choice B) may not be suitable if the patient also has difficulty writing due to the aphasia. While speaking slowly and clearly (Choice D) is important, it may not be sufficient to overcome the communication challenges faced by patients with expressive aphasia.
3. The nurse is caring for a client who has just undergone a total hip replacement. Which intervention is most important to prevent postoperative complications?
- A. Encourage early ambulation
- B. Apply ice to the surgical site
- C. Monitor the surgical site for signs of infection
- D. Administer pain medication as prescribed
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Encouraging early ambulation is crucial following a total hip replacement surgery as it helps prevent complications such as deep vein thrombosis (DVT) by promoting circulation. Early ambulation also aids in preventing pneumonia, muscle atrophy, and pressure ulcers. Applying ice to the surgical site may help with pain and swelling, but it is not as critical in preventing complications as early ambulation. While monitoring the surgical site for signs of infection is important, it is not as crucial in preventing postoperative complications compared to early ambulation. Administering pain medication as prescribed is essential for comfort and pain management but does not directly prevent postoperative complications like early ambulation does.
4. A client enters the emergency department unconscious via ambulance from the client's workplace. What document should be given priority to guide the direction of care for this client?
- A. The statement of client rights and the client self-determination act
- B. Orders written by the healthcare provider
- C. A notarized original copy of advance directives brought in by the partner
- D. The clinical pathway protocol of the agency and the emergency department
Correct answer: C
Rationale: In the scenario described, when a client arrives unconscious, priority should be given to a notarized original copy of advance directives brought in by the partner. Advance directives are legal documents that specify a person's healthcare wishes and decision-making preferences in advance. These directives guide healthcare providers in delivering care according to the client's preferences when the client is unable to communicate. The statement of client rights and the client self-determination act (Choice A) are important but do not provide specific care instructions. Orders written by the healthcare provider (Choice B) may not reflect the client's wishes. Clinical pathway protocols (Choice D) are valuable but do not address the individualized care preferences of the client.
5. During an inspection of a client's fingernails, the nurse notices a suspected abnormality in the shape and character of the nails. Which finding should the nurse document?
- A. Clubbed nails
- B. Splinter hemorrhages
- C. Longitudinal ridges
- D. Koilonychia or spoon nails
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Clubbed nails are a significant finding in clients with chronic hypoxia or lung disease. This abnormality is characterized by an increased curvature of the nails and softening of the nail bed. It can indicate underlying health conditions such as respiratory or cardiovascular issues. Splinter hemorrhages (B) are small areas of bleeding under the nails, typically associated with infective endocarditis. Longitudinal ridges (C) are often a normal age-related change in the nails. Koilonychia or spoon nails (D) present as a concave shape of the nails and are commonly seen in clients with iron deficiency anemia or hemochromatosis. Therefore, documenting clubbed nails is the most relevant abnormality to report and investigate further.