HESI LPN
Fundamentals of Nursing HESI
1. A healthcare professional is reviewing the medical record of a client who has hypocalcemia. The healthcare professional should identify which of the following findings as a risk factor for the development of this electrolyte imbalance?
- A. Crohn’s disease
- B. Postoperative status following appendectomy
- C. History of bone cancer
- D. Hyperthyroidism
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Crohn’s disease is known to impair calcium absorption, which can lead to hypocalcemia. This condition affects the intestines and can disrupt the normal absorption of nutrients, including calcium. Postoperative status following appendectomy, history of bone cancer, and hyperthyroidism are typically not directly associated with a higher risk of developing hypocalcemia compared to Crohn’s disease.
2. Insulin forces which of the following electrolytes out of the plasma and into the cells?
- A. Calcium
- B. Magnesium
- C. Phosphorus
- D. Potassium
Correct answer: D
Rationale: Insulin forces potassium out of the plasma and into the cells, which can cause hypokalemia. This is because insulin enhances the activity of the sodium-potassium pump in cell membranes, promoting the movement of potassium from the extracellular fluid into the cells. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect as insulin does not directly influence the movement of calcium, magnesium, or phosphorus in the same manner as it does with potassium.
3. A healthcare provider is assessing a child with suspected rheumatic fever. What clinical manifestation is the provider likely to observe?
- A. Jaundice
- B. Peeling skin on the hands and feet
- C. High fever
- D. Severe joint pain
Correct answer: D
Rationale: Severe joint pain is a classic symptom of rheumatic fever, resulting from inflammation of the joints. Rheumatic fever primarily affects the joints, heart, skin, and the central nervous system. Jaundice (Choice A) is not typically associated with rheumatic fever. Peeling skin on the hands and feet (Choice B) is more characteristic of conditions like Kawasaki disease. While high fever (Choice C) can be present in rheumatic fever, it is not as specific or characteristic as severe joint pain.
4. A 12-year-old client who had an appendectomy two days ago is receiving 0.9% normal saline at 50 ml/hour. The client’s urine specific gravity is 1.035. What action should the nurse implement?
- A. Encourage popsicles and fluids of choice
- B. Evaluate postural blood pressure measurements
- C. Obtain a specimen for urinalysis
- D. Assess bowel sounds in all quadrants
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Encouraging fluids helps address dehydration and potentially high urine specific gravity, which is often related to inadequate fluid intake. In this scenario, the client may be at risk of dehydration due to the appendectomy and the high urine specific gravity. Encouraging popsicles and fluids of choice can help increase fluid intake and improve hydration status. The other options are not the priority at this time. Postural blood pressure measurements may be relevant for assessing fluid status but are not the immediate action needed. Obtaining a specimen for urinalysis and assessing bowel sounds are not the priority actions based on the client's condition.
5. A nurse is preparing to check a client's blood pressure. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?
- A. Apply the cuff above the client's antecubital fossa.
- B. Use a cuff with a width that is about 60% of the client's arm circumference.
- C. Have the client sit with their arm resting at the level of their heart.
- D. Release the pressure on the client's arm at a rate of 5 to 6 mm per second.
Correct answer: A
Rationale: The correct action when checking a client's blood pressure is to apply the cuff above the client's antecubital fossa. Placing the cuff above this area allows for an accurate measurement of blood pressure. Choice B is incorrect because the cuff width should be approximately 40% of the arm circumference, not 60%. Choice C is incorrect as the client's arm should rest at heart level, not above it, to ensure an accurate reading. Choice D is incorrect as the pressure on the client's arm should be released at a rate of 2 to 3 mm per second, not 5 to 6 mm per second.