HESI LPN
HESI Fundamentals Study Guide
1. A healthcare professional is reviewing a client's fluid and electrolyte status. Which of the following findings should the healthcare professional report to the provider?
- A. BUN 15 mg/dL
- B. Creatinine 0.8 mg/dL
- C. Sodium 143 mEq/L
- D. Potassium 5.4 mEq/L
Correct answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D. A potassium level of 5.4 mEq/L is above the expected reference range, indicating hyperkalemia. Hyperkalemia can lead to serious complications such as dysrhythmias, making it important for the healthcare professional to report this finding to the provider for further evaluation and intervention. Choices A, B, and C fall within normal ranges and do not pose an immediate risk to the client's health, so they would not warrant immediate reporting to the provider. Elevated BUN or creatinine levels may indicate kidney dysfunction, while a sodium level of 143 mEq/L falls within the normal range for adults and does not typically require urgent intervention.
2. A client who had a cerebrovascular accident (CVA) is paralyzed on the left side of the body and has developed a Stage II pressure ulcer on the left hip. Which nursing diagnosis describes this client’s current health status?
- A. Risk for impaired tissue integrity related to impaired physical mobility
- B. Impaired skin integrity related to altered circulation and pressure
- C. Ineffective tissue perfusion related to inability to move self in bed
- D. Impaired physical mobility related to the left-side paralysis
Correct answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: 'Impaired skin integrity related to altered circulation and pressure.' This nursing diagnosis is the most appropriate as it directly addresses the Stage II pressure ulcer on the left hip, which is caused by altered circulation and pressure due to the client's left-side paralysis. Choice A is incorrect because it focuses on the risk for impaired tissue integrity rather than the current issue of impaired skin integrity. Choice C is incorrect as ineffective tissue perfusion is not the primary issue in this scenario. Choice D is incorrect as it only addresses the left-side paralysis and not the pressure ulcer or altered circulation.
3. A practical nurse is caring for a client with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) who is receiving theophylline. Which symptom indicates that the client may be experiencing theophylline toxicity?
- A. Bradycardia
- B. Tremors
- C. Constipation
- D. Hypotension
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Tremors are a common symptom of theophylline toxicity. Other symptoms that may indicate theophylline toxicity include nausea, vomiting, and seizures. Bradycardia, constipation, and hypotension are not typically associated with theophylline toxicity. It is important for the nurse to monitor the client closely for these signs of toxicity and report them promptly to the healthcare provider to prevent further complications.
4. When developing the plan of care for a child with burns requiring fluid replacement therapy, what information would the nurse expect to include?
- A. Administration of colloid initially followed by a crystalloid
- B. Determination of fluid replacement based on the type of burn
- C. Administration of most of the volume during the first 8 hours
- D. Monitoring of hourly urine output to achieve less than 1 mL/kg/hr
Correct answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C. In fluid replacement therapy for burns, it is crucial to administer most of the volume during the first 8 hours to prevent shock and maintain perfusion. This rapid administration is essential to stabilize the child's condition. Choices A and B are incorrect because the initial fluid replacement in burns typically involves administering crystalloids, not colloids, and the fluid replacement is generally calculated based on the extent of the burn injury, not the type of burn. Choice D is incorrect as monitoring hourly urine output to achieve less than 1 mL/kg/hr is not recommended in burn patients; instead, urine output should be monitored to achieve 1-2 mL/kg/hr in children to ensure adequate renal perfusion.
5. A home care nurse is visiting a family for the first time. The 4-week-old infant had surgery for exstrophy of the bladder and creation of an ileal conduit soon after birth. When the nurse arrives, the mother appears tired, and the baby is crying. After an introduction, which is the most appropriate statement by the nurse?
- A. “Tell me about your daily routine.”
- B. “You look tired. Is everything all right?”
- C. “When was the last time the baby had a bottle?”
- D. “Oh, it looks like you two are having a bad day.”
Correct answer: A
Rationale: The most appropriate statement by the nurse in this scenario is to inquire about the family's daily routine. This question allows the nurse to gather information about the family dynamics, the care routine for the infant post-surgery, feeding schedules, and potential stressors. It opens the conversation in a non-intrusive manner and helps the nurse assess the family's situation to provide appropriate support. Choices B, C, and D do not address the situation effectively. Asking about the daily routine is crucial for the nurse to understand the family's needs and offer targeted assistance.