HESI LPN
Pediatric HESI Practice Questions
1. A parent brings a 2-month-old infant with Down syndrome to the pediatric clinic for a physical and administration of immunizations. Which clinical finding should alert the nurse to perform a further assessment?
- A. Flat occiput
- B. Small, low-set ears
- C. Circumoral cyanosis
- D. Protruding furrowed tongue
Correct answer: C
Rationale: Circumoral cyanosis should alert the nurse to perform further assessment in a 2-month-old infant with Down syndrome. This finding may indicate cardiac or respiratory issues, such as inadequate oxygenation. Small, low-set ears and a protruding furrowed tongue are common physical characteristics associated with Down syndrome and may not necessarily warrant immediate further assessment. A flat occiput is a normal variation in infant anatomy and is not typically a cause for immediate concern in this context.
2. The LPN/LVN is caring for a client with schizophrenia who is experiencing auditory hallucinations. Which intervention is most appropriate?
- A. Encourage the client to focus on reality-based activities.
- B. Ask the client to describe the voices he hears.
- C. Tell the client that the voices are not real.
- D. Encourage the client to interact with others who are not experiencing hallucinations.
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Asking the client to describe the voices he hears is the most appropriate intervention in this situation. It helps the nurse assess the content and severity of the hallucinations, enabling the planning of appropriate interventions. Choice A is not as effective as directly addressing the hallucinations. Choice C may lead to mistrust as the client believes the voices are real. Choice D does not address the client's immediate need related to the hallucinations.
3. What should the nurse do to complete a focused assessment for a female client with inflamed and painful hemorrhoids?
- A. Determine if the client uses any over-the-counter preparations for hemorrhoids
- B. Place the client in a standing position, leaning over the exam bed for inspection
- C. Position the client in the left lateral position to inspect the perineal area for fissures or sacs
- D. Ask the client how long she has experienced discomfort related to hemorrhoids
Correct answer: D
Rationale: Asking the client about the duration of discomfort related to hemorrhoids is the best intervention to implement for a focused assessment. This information provides important context for assessing the severity and chronicity of the condition, which is crucial for developing an appropriate care plan. Choices A, B, and C do not directly address the need to gather information about the duration of symptoms, which is essential for understanding the client's condition.
4. A client with a history of hypertension is prescribed hydrochlorothiazide. The practical nurse should monitor the client for which potential adverse effect?
- A. Hyperkalemia
- B. Hypokalemia
- C. Hypernatremia
- D. Hyponatremia
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Corrected Rationale: Hydrochlorothiazide is a diuretic that can lead to potassium loss, resulting in hypokalemia. Monitoring for hypokalemia is essential because it can cause various complications such as cardiac dysrhythmias. Therefore, the practical nurse should closely watch for signs and symptoms of low potassium levels in clients taking hydrochlorothiazide. Incorrect Rationale for Other Choices: A. Hyperkalemia is not typically associated with hydrochlorothiazide use; instead, it is more commonly linked to medications like ACE inhibitors or potassium-sparing diuretics. C. Hypernatremia is unlikely with hydrochlorothiazide use as it tends to cause sodium loss. D. Hyponatremia is more commonly associated with conditions where there is excessive water intake or syndrome of inappropriate antidiuretic hormone secretion (SIADH), rather than with hydrochlorothiazide use.
5. What is a common sign of dehydration in a child with diarrhea?
- A. Decreased urine output
- B. Increased appetite
- C. Warm, dry skin
- D. Elevated blood pressure
Correct answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Decreased urine output. When a child with diarrhea is dehydrated, they may have decreased urine output, indicating that their body is conserving fluids. This sign highlights the importance of fluid replacement to prevent worsening dehydration. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect. Increased appetite is not typically associated with dehydration but can be seen in other conditions. Warm, dry skin may be a sign of fever or other skin conditions, not specifically dehydration. Elevated blood pressure is not a common sign of dehydration in a child with diarrhea.