HESI LPN
HESI Fundamental Practice Exam
1. A client with pneumonia has a decrease in oxygen saturation from 94% to 88% while ambulating. Based on these findings, which intervention should the LPN/LVN implement first?
- A. Assist the ambulating client back to the bed.
- B. Encourage the client to ambulate to resolve pneumonia.
- C. Obtain a prescription for portable oxygen while ambulating.
- D. Move the oximetry probe from the finger to the earlobe.
Correct answer: A
Rationale: The correct intervention is to assist the client back to bed. A decrease in oxygen saturation while ambulating indicates hypoxemia, and the immediate priority is to stabilize oxygen levels. Returning the client to bed allows for rest and decreased oxygen demand, potentially preventing further desaturation. Encouraging continued ambulation (Choice B) may worsen the hypoxemia by increasing oxygen demand. Obtaining portable oxygen (Choice C) is essential but should not delay addressing the low oxygen saturation. Moving the oximetry probe (Choice D) may not address the underlying cause of decreased oxygen saturation and should not be the first intervention.
2. A female client who was involved in a motor vehicle collision is admitted with a fractured left femur which is immobilized using a fracture traction splint in preparation for an open reduction internal fixation (ORIF). The nurse determines that her distal pulses are diminished in the left foot. Which interventions should the nurse implement? (Select all that apply)
- A. Verify pedal pulses using a doppler pulse device.
- B. Monitor left leg for pain, pallor, paresthesia, paralysis, pressure.
- C. Evaluate the application of the splint to the left leg.
- D.
Correct answer: C
Rationale: It is crucial for the nurse to evaluate the application of the splint to the left leg in a client with diminished distal pulses. This assessment helps ensure that the splint is not causing any compromise to circulation. Verifying pulses and monitoring for leg conditions are important interventions but do not directly address the issue with the splint application in this scenario, making them less relevant.
3. What is the most suitable snack food for the LPN/LVN to offer a client with myasthenia gravis who is at risk for altered nutritional status?
- A. Chocolate pudding.
- B. Graham crackers.
- C. Sugar-free gelatin.
- D. Apple slices.
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Chocolate pudding is the best snack food choice for a client with myasthenia gravis at risk for altered nutritional status due to its nutrient density and soft texture, which can be easier for clients with swallowing difficulties to consume. Graham crackers, sugar-free gelatin, and apple slices may not provide the same level of nutrient density or ease of consumption for these clients. Graham crackers and apple slices may also pose challenges for clients with swallowing difficulties, while sugar-free gelatin, although a good option for some clients, may not offer the same level of nutrition as chocolate pudding.
4. What action should be taken to maintain the patency of a peripherally inserted central catheter (PICC)?
- A. Flush the catheter with heparin solution daily.
- B. Change the dressing at the insertion site daily.
- C. Use sterile technique when changing the dressing.
- D. Keep the insertion site dry at all times.
Correct answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is to use sterile technique when changing the dressing. This practice is essential for preventing infections that can compromise the patency of the PICC line. While flushing the catheter with heparin solution helps prevent clot formation, it does not directly maintain patency. Changing the dressing daily is important for hygiene but does not have a direct impact on catheter patency. Keeping the insertion site dry is crucial to prevent infections but does not specifically address patency maintenance.
5. A client with a leg fracture reports increased pain and swelling. What should the nurse suspect?
- A. Compartment syndrome
- B. Deep vein thrombosis
- C. Wound infection
- D. All of the above
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Increased pain and swelling in a fracture could indicate compartment syndrome, a serious condition requiring urgent care. Compartment syndrome is characterized by increased pressure within a muscle compartment, leading to compromised blood flow and potential tissue damage. Deep vein thrombosis is less likely in this scenario as the symptoms are more indicative of compartment syndrome. Wound infection would typically present with localized signs of infection at the wound site, such as redness, warmth, and purulent drainage, rather than diffuse pain and swelling.