HESI LPN
HESI Fundamentals Exam
1. A client is being taught about medications at discharge. Which statement should the nurse identify as an indication that the client understands the instructions?
- A. I can open the time-release capsule with the beads in it and sprinkle them on my oatmeal.
- B. If I am having difficulty swallowing, I will add the liquid medication to a prepared package of pudding.
- C. I can crush the enteric-coated pill if needed.
- D. I will eat two crackers with the pain pills.
Correct answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B. Adding liquid medication to pudding can help with swallowing difficulties, demonstrating understanding of the instructions. Options A and C are incorrect as altering time-release capsules and enteric-coated pills is not recommended in medication administration. Option A is incorrect as time-release capsules should not be opened and sprinkled on food, affecting their efficacy. Option C is incorrect as crushing enteric-coated pills can affect their absorption. Option D is unrelated to medication administration and does not demonstrate understanding of the instructions.
2. A nurse in a surgical suite notes documentation on a client's medical record stating that he has a latex allergy. In preparation for the client's procedure, which of the following precautions should the nurse take?
- A. Ensure sterilization of non-disposable items with ethylene oxide
- B. Wrap monitoring cords with stockinette and secure them with non-latex tape
- C. Cleanse latex ports on IV tubing with chlorhexidine before administering medication
- D. Wear hypoallergenic latex gloves that are powder-free
Correct answer: B
Rationale: In this scenario, the nurse should take precautions to prevent latex exposure to the client due to his latex allergy. Wrapping monitoring cords with stockinette and securing them with non-latex tape helps to minimize the risk of latex contact with the client. Choice A is incorrect as sterilizing non-disposable items with ethylene oxide does not specifically address the avoidance of latex exposure. Choice C involves using latex ports on IV tubing, which can pose a risk of allergic reaction in a client with a latex allergy. Choice D suggests wearing latex gloves, even if hypoallergenic, which can still trigger a reaction in individuals with latex allergy. Therefore, the best option is to choose non-latex materials like stockinette and non-latex tape to prevent direct contact with latex.
3. What should the nurse include in the care plan for a 6-month-old infant admitted with a diagnosis of respiratory syncytial virus (RSV)?
- A. Provide small, frequent feedings
- B. Administer antibiotics
- C. Maintain strict isolation
- D. Elevate the head of the bed
Correct answer: D
Rationale: Elevating the head of the bed is crucial in the care plan for an infant with RSV as it helps improve breathing by facilitating better airflow and drainage of secretions. This position can also enhance comfort and reduce respiratory distress. Providing small, frequent feedings (Choice A) is generally beneficial for infants but is not specific to managing RSV. Administering antibiotics (Choice B) is not indicated for RSV as it is caused by a virus, and antibiotics are ineffective against viral infections. Maintaining strict isolation (Choice C) is important to prevent the spread of contagious infections but is not a direct intervention for improving the infant's respiratory status in RSV.
4. A client is receiving discharge teaching about a new prescription for digoxin (Lanoxin). Which statement by the client indicates a need for further teaching?
- A. I should avoid foods high in potassium while taking this medication.
- B. I will check my pulse before taking the medication.
- C. I should avoid taking antacids simultaneously with this medication.
- D. I will take the medication at the same time every day.
Correct answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A because clients taking digoxin should avoid foods high in potassium. High potassium levels can potentiate the effects of digoxin, leading to toxicity. Choices B, C, and D are correct statements regarding digoxin administration. Checking the pulse before taking the medication helps monitor for signs of digoxin toxicity. Avoiding taking antacids simultaneously prevents interactions that may reduce digoxin absorption. Taking the medication at the same time every day helps maintain a consistent blood level, ensuring optimal therapeutic effects.
5. A child has coarctation of the aorta. What does the nurse expect to identify when taking the child’s vital signs?
- A. A weak radial pulse
- B. An irregular heartbeat
- C. A bounding femoral pulse
- D. An elevated radial blood pressure
Correct answer: A
Rationale: When a child has coarctation of the aorta, the nurse would expect to identify a weak radial pulse when taking the child's vital signs. Coarctation of the aorta results in a narrowing of the aorta, leading to reduced blood flow and a weakened pulse. An irregular heartbeat (Choice B) is less likely to be associated with coarctation of the aorta. Similarly, a bounding femoral pulse (Choice C) is not typically observed with this condition. An elevated radial blood pressure (Choice D) is less common as coarctation of the aorta usually causes decreased blood pressure in the lower extremities due to the aortic narrowing.