HESI RN
HESI Fundamentals Practice Exam
1. After abdominal surgery, an adult is now alert and oriented. What position is most appropriate for the client?
- A. Semi-Fowler's
- B. Prone
- C. Supine
- D. Sim's
Correct answer: A
Rationale: The most appropriate position for a client following abdominal surgery is Semi-Fowler's. This position promotes greater thoracic expansion and reduces pressure on the suture line, aiding in respiratory function and preventing strain on the incision site. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect. Prone position (Choice B) would not be suitable after abdominal surgery as it can put pressure on the abdomen. Supine position (Choice C) may cause discomfort and strain on the incision area. Sim's position (Choice D) is primarily used for rectal exams and enemas, which are unrelated to the needs post-abdominal surgery.
2. What information will the nurse provide when counseling a patient starting a sulfonamide drug for a urinary tract infection?
- A. Drink several quarts of water daily.
- B. If stomach upset occurs, avoid taking antacids.
- C. Limit sun exposure to avoid skin reactions.
- D. Report any sore throat promptly.
Correct answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Drink several quarts of water daily. This advice aims to prevent crystalluria, a potential side effect of sulfonamide drugs. Option B is incorrect because antacids should not be taken with sulfonamides as they can decrease drug absorption. Option C is incorrect as sulfonamides can increase sensitivity to sunlight, not requiring sun exposure limitations but sun protection measures. Option D is incorrect because a sore throat could indicate a more serious adverse effect and should be promptly reported for evaluation.
3. A child who received multiple blood transfusions after correction of a congenital heart defect is demonstrating muscular irritability and oozing blood from the surgical incision. Which serum value is most important for the nurse to obtain before reporting to the healthcare provider?
- A. CO2 combining power
- B. Calcium
- C. Sodium
- D. Chloride
Correct answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is Calcium. In this scenario, the child is displaying symptoms of muscular irritability and oozing blood, which are indicative of hypocalcemia. Calcium levels are crucial to monitor after multiple blood transfusions to prevent complications such as hypocalcemia, which can lead to these symptoms. Therefore, obtaining a serum calcium value is essential for the nurse to assess and address the child's condition effectively. CO2 combining power, Sodium, and Chloride levels are not directly associated with the symptoms described and are not the priority in this situation.
4. A nurse manager is reviewing data from the unit. More than 50% of new nurses hired left within 1 year of being hired. Which of the following implementations should the nurse manager consider to improve retention of newly hired nurses?
- A. Increase the length of time new hires spend in training.
- B. Conduct a performance review at 3, 6, and 9 months to review the new nurse’s weaknesses.
- C. Stress the importance of continuity of care to new hires.
- D. Build the manager’s own leadership skills through building relationships with staff members.
Correct answer: D
Rationale: To improve retention of newly hired nurses, the nurse manager should focus on building their own leadership skills and relationships with staff members. By creating a supportive environment and demonstrating effective leadership, the manager can positively impact staff retention. Options A, B, and C do not directly address the core issue of creating a supportive work environment and effective leadership, which are crucial for retaining newly hired nurses.
5. In a patient with diabetes mellitus, which of the following is a sign of hypoglycemia?
- A. Polydipsia.
- B. Polyuria.
- C. Sweating.
- D. Dry skin.
Correct answer: C
Rationale: Sweating is a common sign of hypoglycemia in diabetic patients. When blood sugar levels drop too low, the body releases stress hormones like adrenaline, which can cause sweating as a response to the perceived danger. Polydipsia (excessive thirst) and polyuria (excessive urination) are actually more commonly associated with hyperglycemia, not hypoglycemia. Dry skin is not typically a sign of hypoglycemia.