a nurse is caring for a client who has a terminal illness which of the following findings indicates that the clients death is imminent
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Nursing Elites

HESI LPN

HESI Fundamental Practice Exam

1. A client with a terminal illness is being cared for by a nurse. Which of the following findings indicates that the client's death is imminent?

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Cold extremities are a common sign observed in clients nearing death. This occurs due to decreased blood circulation as the body's systems begin to shut down. Cold extremities indicate poor perfusion and reduced function of vital organs. Increased appetite (Choice B) is not typically seen in clients approaching death; instead, a decreased appetite is more common. Elevated blood pressure (Choice C) is not a typical finding in clients nearing the end of life, as blood pressure tends to decrease. An increased level of consciousness (Choice D) is also not indicative of imminent death, as clients near death often experience decreased level of consciousness or become unresponsive.

2. A nurse observes smoke coming from under the door of the staff lounge. Which of the following actions is the nurse's priority?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: In a fire emergency, the nurse's priority is to activate the fire alarm. This action alerts others to the emergency, initiates the evacuation process, and ensures everyone's safety. Extinguishing the fire can be dangerous and should be left to trained personnel. Moving clients who are nearby might delay the activation of the alarm and can put the nurse and clients at risk. Closing all open doors on the unit is important to contain the fire but should not take precedence over alerting others through the fire alarm system.

3. A nurse in a primary care clinic is assessing a client who has a history of herpes zoster. Which of the following findings suggests that the client has postherpetic neuralgia?

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: Report of continued pain following resolution of the rash. Postherpetic neuralgia is a complication of herpes zoster characterized by persistent pain that continues even after the rash has resolved. This pain can be severe and debilitating, affecting the quality of life of the individual. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect because linear clusters of vesicles on the right shoulder would suggest an active herpes zoster outbreak, purulent drainage from both eyes would indicate an eye infection unrelated to postherpetic neuralgia, and a decreased white blood cell count is not typically associated with postherpetic neuralgia.

4. A dying client is coping with feelings regarding impending death. The nurse bases care on the theory of death and dying by Kübler-Ross. During which stage of grieving should the LPN/LVN primarily use nonverbal interventions?

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Nonverbal interventions are primarily used during the acceptance stage according to Kübler-Ross's theory of death and dying. During the acceptance stage, the individual is more likely to be reflective and less communicative, making nonverbal interventions more effective. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect because anger, denial, and bargaining are stages that precede the acceptance stage in Kübler-Ross's model, where verbal communication and processing emotions play a more significant role.

5. A nurse is providing education about cultural and religious traditions and rituals related to death for the assistive personnel on the unit. Which of the following information should the nurse include?

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A. In Judaism, it is customary for the body to be attended to by family or members of the community until burial. This practice is rooted in the belief of providing respect and care to the deceased individual. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because they do not accurately reflect the cultural and religious traditions related to death for people who practice Islam, Buddhism, and Hinduism, respectively. People who practice Islam generally avoid cremation and opt for burial, Buddhists may have varying funeral service preferences, and Hindus often practice cremation without embalming the body.

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