HESI LPN
Fundamentals of Nursing HESI
1. When caring for a client with a tracheostomy, which of the following actions should the nurse take?
- A. Clean the skin around the stoma with normal saline.
- B. Secure the tracheostomy ties with two fingers' width underneath.
- C. Soak the outer cannula in warm tap water.
- D. Use a cotton tip applicator to clean the inside of the inner cannula.
Correct answer: A
Rationale: When caring for a client with a tracheostomy, the nurse should clean the skin around the stoma with normal saline to prevent infection and ensure cleanliness. This action helps in maintaining skin integrity and preventing skin breakdown. Securing the tracheostomy ties with two fingers' width underneath is essential to allow for proper fit, prevent skin irritation, and ensure the ties are not too tight. Soaking the outer cannula in warm tap water is not recommended as it can lead to contamination and is not a standard practice. Using a cotton tip applicator to clean the inside of the inner cannula is discouraged as it can leave fibers behind, increasing the risk of aspiration and respiratory complications.
2. A client with a history of severe anxiety is scheduled for surgery. Which preoperative medication is the most appropriate for the LPN/LVN to administer to this client?
- A. Lorazepam (Ativan)
- B. Morphine sulfate
- C. Meperidine (Demerol)
- D. Promethazine (Phenergan)
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Lorazepam (Ativan) is the most appropriate preoperative medication for a client with severe anxiety. Lorazepam belongs to the benzodiazepine class and is commonly used to manage anxiety before surgical procedures due to its anxiolytic properties. Morphine sulfate and Meperidine (Demerol) are opioid analgesics, not typically indicated for preoperative anxiety. Promethazine (Phenergan) is an antihistamine used for nausea and vomiting, not anxiety management.
3. A client with schizophrenia is prescribed risperidone. Which statement by the client indicates the need for further teaching?
- A. I can stop taking this medication once I feel better.
- B. This medication may cause drowsiness.
- C. This medication might make me feel drowsy.
- D. I should avoid alcohol while taking this medication.
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Clients should not stop taking risperidone abruptly once they feel better without consulting their healthcare provider.
4. A nurse is providing care to a 17-year-old client in the post-operative care unit (PACU) after an emergency appendectomy. Which finding is an early indication that the client is experiencing poor oxygenation?
- A. Abnormal breath sounds
- B. Cyanosis of the lips
- C. Increasing pulse rate
- D. Pulse oximeter reading of 92%
Correct answer: C
Rationale: An increasing pulse rate can be an early sign of poor oxygenation as the body tries to compensate. Abnormal breath sounds (choice A) can indicate respiratory issues, but they may not always be an early sign of poor oxygenation. Cyanosis of the lips (choice B) is a late sign of inadequate oxygenation. A pulse oximeter reading of 92% (choice D) indicates mild hypoxemia but may not be considered an early indication of poor oxygenation.
5. The nurse is assessing a client with hyperkalemia. Which finding is consistent with this electrolyte imbalance?
- A. Muscle weakness
- B. Decreased deep tendon reflexes
- C. Constipation
- D. Hypotension
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Muscle weakness is a common finding in clients with hyperkalemia. Hyperkalemia can lead to muscle weakness due to the effect of high potassium levels on muscle function. Decreased deep tendon reflexes (Choice B) are not typically associated with hyperkalemia; instead, hyperreflexia or increased reflexes may be observed. Constipation (Choice C) is not a common symptom of hyperkalemia. Hypotension (Choice D) is also not a typical finding in hyperkalemia; instead, hypertension or normal blood pressure may be present.