HESI RN
HESI Pediatric Practice Exam
1. During a well baby visit, the parents explain that a soft bulge appears in the groin of their 4-month-old son when he cries or strains during stooling. The infant is scheduled for surgical repair of the inguinal hernia in two weeks. What should the parent be instructed to do if the hernia becomes incarcerated prior to the surgery?
- A. Use a rectal thermometer to strain during stooling.
- B. Gently manipulate the hernia for reduction.
- C. Offer oral electrolyte fluids for comfort.
- D. Give acetaminophen or aspirin for crying.
Correct answer: B
Rationale: In the case of an incarcerated inguinal hernia, gentle manipulation can sometimes help in reducing it before surgery. This action should be taken cautiously and immediately followed by seeking medical attention. It is important to note that attempting reduction should be done by a healthcare professional, and parents should be advised to seek urgent medical care if the hernia becomes incarcerated. Using a rectal thermometer to strain during stooling (Choice A) is not the correct approach for an incarcerated hernia and can worsen the condition. Offering oral electrolyte fluids for comfort (Choice C) or giving acetaminophen or aspirin for crying (Choice D) are not appropriate interventions for an incarcerated hernia and may delay necessary medical treatment.
2. A male adolescent who is newly diagnosed with a seizure disorder receives a prescription for an anticonvulsant. Which statement indicates the client is at risk for non-compliance with life-long medication management?
- A. I hope I will be able to drive while taking these pills.
- B. My friends will think I am a freak if I take these pills.
- C. I don't want my parents monitoring my medications.
- D. I will take the pills at home so others will not see me.
Correct answer: B
Rationale: The statement 'My friends will think I am a freak if I take these pills' indicates concerns about peer perception, which can lead to non-compliance in adolescents. Peer pressure and fear of social stigma can significantly impact medication adherence in this age group. Option B is the most concerning response as it reflects the client's worry about how others perceive him for taking medication, potentially leading to non-compliance due to social pressures. Choices A, C, and D do not directly address societal perception or peer pressure, making them less likely to impact the client's medication adherence negatively.
3. The practical nurse is reinforcing education with the parents of a child prescribed iron supplements for iron-deficiency anemia. Which statement by the parents indicates they need further instruction?
- A. We will give the iron supplement with milk to reduce stomach upset.
- B. We should give the iron supplement with orange juice to improve absorption.
- C. The supplement may cause the stools to appear dark or black.
- D. We should store the iron supplements out of reach of children.
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Iron supplements should not be given with milk as calcium can interfere with iron absorption. Instead, it is recommended to give it with a source of vitamin C, such as orange juice, to enhance iron absorption. Giving iron supplements with milk may decrease the absorption of iron and should be avoided. Choice B is the correct method to improve iron absorption. Choice C is correct as iron supplements can cause dark or black stools due to unabsorbed iron. Choice D is also correct as iron supplements should always be stored out of reach of children to prevent accidental ingestion.
4. What suggestion should the nurse provide to prevent diaper rash in a 4-month-old infant as requested by the mother?
- A. Generously powder the baby's diaper area with talcum powder at each diaper change to promote dryness.
- B. Wash the diaper area every 2 hours with soap and water to help prevent skin breakdown.
- C. Use a barrier cream, such as zinc oxide, which does not have to be completely removed with each diaper change.
- D. Place a cloth diaper inside the disposable diaper for overnight periods when increased wearing time is likely.
Correct answer: C
Rationale: Using a barrier cream like zinc oxide forms a protective layer on the skin, creating a barrier against irritants and moisture, thus helping to prevent diaper rash. Unlike other options, barrier creams do not need to be completely removed at each diaper change, allowing the skin to remain protected between changes.
5. The healthcare provider is providing postoperative care to a 4-year-old child who underwent tonsillectomy. The provider notices that the child is frequently swallowing. What should the provider do first?
- A. Check the child’s throat for signs of bleeding
- B. Offer the child ice chips to soothe the throat
- C. Elevate the head of the child’s bed
- D. Administer prescribed pain medication
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Frequent swallowing after tonsillectomy may indicate bleeding, which requires immediate assessment and intervention. Checking the child’s throat for signs of bleeding is the priority to ensure timely identification and management of any potential bleeding complications.
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