HESI LPN
HESI Fundamental Practice Exam
1. A healthcare professional is preparing to insert an IV catheter into a client’s arm prior to initiating IV fluid therapy. Which of the following interventions should the healthcare professional implement to prevent infection?
- A. Thread the catheter up to the hub
- B. Use a sterile technique throughout the procedure
- C. Clean the insertion site with alcohol only
- D. Use gloves but not a mask during the procedure
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Using a sterile technique throughout the procedure is essential to prevent infection when inserting an IV catheter. This includes maintaining aseptic conditions, using sterile equipment, and following proper hand hygiene practices. Choice A is incorrect because threading the catheter up to the hub does not specifically address infection prevention. Choice C is incorrect as cleaning the insertion site with alcohol only may not provide adequate disinfection, as it is essential to use an antiseptic solution to reduce microbial load. Choice D is incorrect as wearing gloves alone is not sufficient protection against infection; a mask should also be worn to prevent the spread of microorganisms through respiratory secretions.
2. The nurse is teaching a group of older adults about medication safety. Which of the following should be included in the teaching?
- A. keeping a list of all medications and dosages
- B. sharing medications with family members if they have the same prescription
- C. stopping medications when symptoms improve
- D. doubling up on missed doses
Correct answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: keeping a list of all medications and dosages. Maintaining a comprehensive list of medications and their dosages is essential for older adults to prevent medication errors and dangerous interactions. Choice B is incorrect because sharing medications, even if family members have the same prescription, can lead to unintended adverse effects or inappropriate dosages. Choice C is incorrect as stopping medications when symptoms improve can be harmful if the full course of treatment is not completed. Choice D is incorrect as doubling up on missed doses can result in overdosing and adverse reactions.
3. Which of the following behaviors is influenced by cultural expectations?
- A. talking openly about the details of the illness
- B. deciding whether to 'feed a cold' or 'starve a fever'
- C. taking herbal supplements to boost the immune system
- D. all of the above
Correct answer: D
Rationale: Cultural expectations can influence all the listed behaviors. Talking openly about the details of an illness may be culturally acceptable or taboo. The decision to 'feed a cold' or 'starve a fever' is often influenced by cultural beliefs and practices. Additionally, the use of herbal supplements to boost the immune system can also be shaped by cultural norms and traditions. Therefore, all the behaviors listed can be influenced by cultural expectations, making option D the correct answer. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect because cultural expectations can impact each of these behaviors.
4. The nurse uses the DRG (Diagnosis Related Group) manual to
- A. Classify nursing diagnoses from the client's health history
- B. Identify findings related to a medical diagnosis
- C. Determine reimbursement for a medical diagnosis
- D. Implement nursing care based on case management protocol
Correct answer: C
Rationale: The DRG manual is used to determine the reimbursement rate for medical diagnoses and treatments under the prospective payment system used by healthcare facilities. Choice A is incorrect because the DRG manual is not used to classify nursing diagnoses, but rather to group medical diagnoses for billing purposes. Choice B is incorrect as the DRG manual is not used to identify findings related to medical diagnoses, but rather to standardize payments for medical services. Choice D is incorrect as the DRG manual is not used to implement nursing care based on case management protocol, but rather to set reimbursement rates.
5. A client with an exacerbation of asthma is prescribed albuterol. The nurse should assess the client for which common side effect of this medication?
- A. Tremors
- B. Nausea and vomiting
- C. Insomnia
- D. Dry mouth
Correct answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Tremors. Albuterol, a beta-agonist medication commonly used to treat asthma exacerbations, can lead to tremors as a side effect. Tremors result from the stimulation of beta-2 receptors in muscles, particularly in the hands. Nausea and vomiting (Choice B) are generally not common side effects of albuterol. Insomnia (Choice C) is less likely to occur with albuterol, as it is a stimulant and can cause alertness rather than sleep disturbances. Dry mouth (Choice D) is not a typical side effect associated with albuterol use.