HESI LPN
Medical Surgical Assignment Exam HESI
1. A woman with chronic osteoarthritis is complaining of knee pain. Which pathophysiological process is contributing to her pain?
- A. Inflammation of the synovial membrane.
- B. Degeneration of the cartilage in the joint.
- C. Joint inflammation occurs when chondrocyte injury destroys joint cartilage, producing osteophytes.
- D. Formation of uric acid crystals in the joint space.
Correct answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C. In osteoarthritis, the breakdown of cartilage in the joints leads to chondrocyte injury, which results in the destruction of joint cartilage and the production of osteophytes. This process causes joint inflammation and pain. Choice A is incorrect because osteoarthritis primarily involves the articular cartilage rather than the synovial membrane. Choice B is incorrect as it describes the degeneration of cartilage but does not explain the specific pathophysiological process contributing to pain in osteoarthritis. Choice D is incorrect as the formation of uric acid crystals is characteristic of gout, not osteoarthritis.
2. Following an open reduction and internal fixation of a compound fracture of the leg, a male client complains of “a tingly sensation” in his left foot. The nurse determines the client’s left pedal pulses are diminished. Based on these findings, what is the client’s greatest risk?
- A. Reduce pulmonary ventilation and oxygenation related to fat embolism.
- B. Neurovascular and circulation compromise related to compartment syndrome.
- C. Wound infection and delayed healing due to fractured bone protrusion.
- D. Venous stasis and thrombophlebitis related to postoperative immobility.
Correct answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B. Compartment syndrome is a serious condition that can occur following trauma or surgery, leading to compromised neurovascular status in the affected limb. Symptoms include pain, paresthesia (tingling sensation), and diminished pulses. If left untreated, compartment syndrome can result in tissue damage and potential loss of limb function. Options A, C, and D are incorrect because they do not directly address the neurovascular compromise associated with compartment syndrome.
3. Which task could the PN safely delegate to the UAP?
- A. Oral feeding of a two-year-old child after application of a hip spica cast
- B. Assessment of the placement and patency of a NG tube
- C. Participation in staff rounds to record notes regarding client goals
- D. Evaluation of a client's incisional pain following narcotic administration
Correct answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A because oral feeding of a child is a task that can be safely delegated to an unlicensed assistive personnel (UAP). This task involves providing basic care and does not require specialized nursing skills. Choices B, C, and D involve assessments, recording client goals, and evaluating pain, respectively, which all require specialized nursing knowledge, judgment, and skills. These tasks are not within the scope of practice for a UAP.
4. Why is patient confidentiality significant in healthcare?
- A. Sharing patient information freely
- B. Protecting patient privacy
- C. Ignoring patient consent
- D. Limiting patient access to their own records
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Patient confidentiality is significant in healthcare because it involves protecting patient privacy. Maintaining confidentiality ensures that patients feel safe and secure when sharing sensitive information with healthcare providers. Choice A is incorrect because sharing patient information freely would violate confidentiality. Choice C is incorrect because ignoring patient consent goes against ethical principles. Choice D is incorrect because limiting patient access to their own records does not relate directly to the concept of patient confidentiality.
5. After a cardiac catheterization, what is the priority nursing care for a 3-year-old child?
- A. Encouraging early ambulation
- B. Monitoring the site for bleeding
- C. Restricting fluids until the blood pressure is stabilized
- D. Comparing the blood pressure of both lower extremities
Correct answer: B
Rationale: The priority nursing care after a cardiac catheterization in a 3-year-old is to monitor the site for bleeding. This is essential to promptly detect and manage any potential complications, such as hematoma or hemorrhage. Encouraging early ambulation, as mentioned in choice A, may not be safe immediately post-procedure and should be guided by the healthcare provider's instructions. Restricting fluids until blood pressure is stabilized, as in choice C, is not typically necessary after a cardiac catheterization. Comparing blood pressure in both lower extremities, as in choice D, is not the priority immediate nursing care following this procedure.