HESI LPN
CAT Exam Practice Test
1. Following a gunshot wound, an adult client has a hemoglobin level of 4 grams/dl (40 mmol/L SI). The nurse prepares to administer a unit of blood for an emergency transfusion. The client has AB negative blood type and the blood bank sends a unit of type A Rh negative, reporting that there is not type AB negative blood currently available. Which intervention should the nurse implement?
- A. Transfuse Type A negative blood until type AB negative is available.
- B. Recheck the client’s hemoglobin, blood type, and Rh factor.
- C. Administer normal saline solution until type AB negative is available.
- D. Obtain additional consent for the administration of type A negative blood.
Correct answer: A
Rationale: In emergency situations where AB negative blood is unavailable, type A negative blood can be transfused to a patient with AB negative blood type. Type A negative blood is compatible with AB negative blood, making it a suitable option until the correct blood type becomes available. Transfusion of Type A negative blood is crucial to address the severe anemia promptly. Rechecking the client’s hemoglobin, blood type, and Rh factor (Choice B) may delay necessary treatment. Administering normal saline solution (Choice C) is not a substitute for blood transfusion in cases of severe anemia. Obtaining additional consent for the administration of type A negative blood (Choice D) is unnecessary as the situation is emergent and the blood type is compatible.
2. What is a primary intervention for a child with a suspected respiratory infection?
- A. Administer antiviral medications
- B. Increase fluid intake and rest
- C. Restrict all physical activity
- D. Provide high-dose vitamin supplements
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Increasing fluid intake and rest is a primary intervention for a child with a suspected respiratory infection because it helps support the body’s recovery and maintains hydration levels. Antiviral medications (Choice A) are only used for specific viral infections and are not routinely recommended for suspected respiratory infections. Restricting physical activity (Choice C) may be necessary in certain cases to prevent overexertion, but it is not a primary intervention. Providing high-dose vitamin supplements (Choice D) may support the immune system in general but is not a primary intervention for a suspected respiratory infection.
3. What should the nurse include in the care plan for a 6-month-old infant admitted with a diagnosis of respiratory syncytial virus (RSV)?
- A. Provide small, frequent feedings
- B. Administer antibiotics
- C. Maintain strict isolation
- D. Elevate the head of the bed
Correct answer: D
Rationale: Elevating the head of the bed is crucial in the care plan for an infant with RSV as it helps improve breathing by facilitating better airflow and drainage of secretions. This position can also enhance comfort and reduce respiratory distress. Providing small, frequent feedings (Choice A) is generally beneficial for infants but is not specific to managing RSV. Administering antibiotics (Choice B) is not indicated for RSV as it is caused by a virus, and antibiotics are ineffective against viral infections. Maintaining strict isolation (Choice C) is important to prevent the spread of contagious infections but is not a direct intervention for improving the infant's respiratory status in RSV.
4. In developing a plan of care for a client admitted to a mental health unit after attempting suicide by taking a handful of medications, which goal has the highest priority?
- A. Signs a no-self-harm contract
- B. Sleep for at least 6 hours nightly
- C. Attends group therapy every day
- D. Verbalizes a positive self-image
Correct answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Signs a no-self-harm contract. Ensuring the client’s immediate safety by having them commit to not engaging in self-harm is the highest priority after a suicide attempt. This measure aims to prevent further harm to the client. While sleep, group therapy, and self-image are important aspects of care, they are secondary to ensuring the client's safety in the immediate aftermath of a suicide attempt. Prioritizing the establishment of a no-self-harm contract creates a foundation for addressing other therapeutic goals in the client's care plan.
5. The nurse is conducting a physical examination of a 9-month-old baby with a flat, discolored area on the skin. The nurse documents this as a:
- A. Papule
- B. Macule
- C. Vesicle
- D. Scale
Correct answer: B
Rationale: A macule is defined as a flat, discolored area on the skin that is different from surrounding tissue due to a change in color. In this case, the baby has a flat, discolored area on the skin, which fits the description of a macule. A papule is a small, raised solid bump, a vesicle is a small fluid-filled blister, and a scale is a flake of skin that is often dry and rough. Therefore, choices A, C, and D do not accurately describe the flat, discolored area on the baby's skin, making them incorrect.