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 6-year-old boy with bronchial asthma takes the beta-adrenergic agonist albuterol (Proventil). The child’s mother tells the nurse that she uses this medication to open her son’s airway when he is having trouble breathing. What is the nurse’s best response?
- A. Recommend that the mother bring the child in for immediate evaluation
- B. Advise the mother that overuse of the drug may cause chronic bronchitis
- C. Assure the mother that she is using the medication correctly
- D. Confirm that the medication helps to reduce airway inflammation
Correct answer: C
Rationale: The correct response is to assure the mother that she is using the medication correctly. Albuterol is a beta-adrenergic agonist that helps open the airways during an asthma attack. By reassuring the mother, the nurse reinforces the correct usage of the medication, which is crucial in managing the child's asthma symptoms effectively. Option A is incorrect because immediate evaluation may not be necessary if the child's symptoms are being managed effectively with albuterol. Option B is incorrect as chronic bronchitis is not typically associated with the overuse of albuterol. Option D is incorrect as albuterol primarily acts as a bronchodilator and does not directly reduce airway inflammation.
3. A 2-year-old is admitted to the hospital with possible encephalitis, and a lumbar puncture is scheduled. Which information should the nurse provide this child concerning the procedure?
- A. Describe the side-lying, knees to chest position that must be assumed during the procedure.
- B. Tell the child to expect loud clicking noises during the procedure that may be slightly annoying.
- C. Reassure the child that there will be no restrictions on activity after the procedure is completed.
- D. Explain that fluids cannot be taken for 8 hours before the procedure and for 4 hours after the procedure.
Correct answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A. Describing the side-lying, knees to chest position that must be assumed during the lumbar puncture procedure is essential as it helps the child understand what to expect, promotes cooperation, and reduces anxiety. This position is necessary for the procedure to be performed safely and effectively. Choice B is incorrect because mentioning loud clicking noises may increase the child's anxiety. Choice C is incorrect because there may be restrictions on activity after the procedure, depending on individual cases. Choice D is also incorrect as it provides information about fluid intake restrictions that are not directly related to the procedure itself.
4. An 8-year-old male client with nephrotic syndrome is receiving salt-poor human albumin IV. Which findings indicate to the nurse that the child is manifesting a therapeutic response?
- A. Decreased urinary output
- B. Decreased periorbital edema
- C. Increased periods of rest
- D. Weight gain of 0.5 kg/day
Correct answer: B
Rationale: In nephrotic syndrome treatment, decreased periorbital edema is a positive therapeutic response as it indicates a reduction in fluid retention. Periorbital edema is a common symptom of nephrotic syndrome due to fluid accumulation, so a decrease in this swelling signifies an improvement in the condition.
5. When reinforcing teaching with the parents of a 7-year-old child with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) about the child's medication, which statement by the parents indicates an understanding of the medication's side effects?
- A. We should monitor our child's growth and appetite regularly.
- B. The medication may cause drowsiness, so we will give it at bedtime.
- C. We need to give the medication with food to avoid stomach upset.
- D. The medication can cause increased urination, so fluid intake should be limited.
Correct answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: 'We should monitor our child's growth and appetite regularly.' Correct monitoring of the child's growth and appetite is crucial when a child is on ADHD medications, especially stimulants, as these medications can have side effects related to growth and appetite. Monitoring these parameters regularly helps in assessing the medication's impact and making any necessary adjustments. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect: B talks about drowsiness, C mentions avoiding stomach upset, and D refers to increased urination and limiting fluid intake. While these are potential side effects of medications, they do not directly address the importance of monitoring growth and appetite, which is crucial in children on ADHD medications.
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