HESI LPN
Mental Health HESI Practice Questions
1. A female client with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is describing her obsessions and compulsions and asks the nurse why these make her feel safer. What information should the nurse include in this client's teaching plan? (select one that does not apply.)
- A. Compulsions relieve anxiety
- B. Anxiety is the key reason for OCD
- C. Obsessions cause compulsions
- D. Obsessive thoughts are linked to levels of neurochemicals
Correct answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C. Obsessions do not cause compulsions; rather, obsessions are intrusive, unwanted thoughts, images, or urges that trigger intensely distressing feelings, while compulsions are repetitive behaviors or mental acts that a person feels driven to perform in response to an obsession or according to rules that must be applied rigidly. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect. Choice A is incorrect because compulsions are behaviors or mental acts aimed at reducing distress or preventing a dreaded event or situation. Choice B is incorrect because while anxiety is often a significant component of OCD, it is not the only reason for the disorder. Choice D is incorrect because obsessive thoughts are not solely linked to levels of neurochemicals but are more complex and multifactorial.
2. While performing an initial assessment on a newborn following a breech delivery, the nurse suspects hip dislocation. Which of the following is most suggestive of the abnormality?
- A. Flexion of lower extremities
- B. Negative Ortolani response
- C. Lengthened leg of affected side
- D. Irregular hip symmetry
Correct answer: D
Rationale: Irregular hip symmetry, such as asymmetry in the gluteal folds, is a common sign of hip dislocation in newborns. This finding indicates a potential abnormality in hip development and requires further evaluation and possible treatment. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect. Flexion of lower extremities is a normal newborn reflex, the Ortolani response is used to detect hip dysplasia rather than hip dislocation, and a lengthened leg of the affected side is not typically associated with hip dislocation in newborns.
3. A client with a diagnosis of schizophrenia is prescribed lurasidone. The nurse should monitor the client for which potential side effect?
- A. Weight gain
- B. Dry mouth
- C. Nausea
- D. Headache
Correct answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Weight gain. When a client is prescribed lurasidone, monitoring for weight gain is essential as lurasidone can cause this side effect. Patients on lurasidone should have their weight monitored regularly to detect any changes that may occur. Options B, C, and D are not typically associated with lurasidone use, making them less likely to be a direct side effect of this medication.
4. A healthcare professional is preparing information for a change-of-shift report. Which of the following information should the healthcare professional include in the report?
- A. Input and output measurements for the shift
- B. Blood pressure readings from the previous day
- C. Bone scan scheduled for today
- D. Medication regimen from the medication administration record
Correct answer: D
Rationale: During a change-of-shift report, healthcare professionals should include the medication regimen from the medication administration record. This information ensures continuity of care and helps incoming staff understand the patient's medication needs and schedule. While input and output measurements, blood pressure readings, and scheduled procedures like a bone scan are important aspects of patient care, they may not be immediately relevant for the incoming shift. Focusing on medication details helps prevent errors and ensures the patient receives the correct medications at the right times.
5. Prior to administering an oral dose of methylprednisolone, what is most important for the nurse to do?
- A. Administer the medication with a glass of milk
- B. Notify the healthcare provider of the finding
- C. Begin tapering the drug dose per protocol
- D. Teach the clients about foods high in calcium
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Administering methylprednisolone with food or milk is important as it can help reduce gastrointestinal side effects associated with the medication. This practice is commonly recommended to minimize stomach upset and irritation that may occur when taking methylprednisolone on an empty stomach. Therefore, it is crucial for the nurse to provide the medication with a glass of milk to enhance patient comfort and adherence to the treatment regimen. Choice B is incorrect as there is no indication in the question stem that suggests a need to notify the healthcare provider before administering the medication with food or milk. Choice C is incorrect because tapering the drug dose per protocol is not the immediate action needed prior to administering the first dose of methylprednisolone. Choice D is irrelevant to the administration of methylprednisolone and not the most important action to take before giving the medication.