HESI RN
Evolve HESI Medical Surgical Practice Exam Quizlet
1. In a patient with anemia, which of the following is the primary symptom to assess?
- A. Fever.
- B. Chest pain.
- C. Shortness of breath.
- D. Muscle cramps.
Correct answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: Shortness of breath. In a patient with anemia, the primary symptom to assess is shortness of breath. Anemia leads to a reduced oxygen-carrying capacity of the blood, resulting in tissues not receiving adequate oxygen. This can manifest as shortness of breath, especially during physical exertion. Fever (Choice A), chest pain (Choice B), and muscle cramps (Choice D) are not typically primary symptoms of anemia. Fever may suggest an infection, chest pain can be indicative of cardiac issues, and muscle cramps may be related to electrolyte imbalances or neuromuscular disorders.
2. Which of the following lipid abnormalities is a risk factor for the development of atherosclerosis and peripheral vascular disease?
- A. Low concentration of triglycerides.
- B. High levels of high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol.
- C. High levels of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol.
- D. Low levels of LDL cholesterol.
Correct answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: High levels of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol. High levels of LDL cholesterol contribute to the development of atherosclerosis and peripheral vascular disease by being deposited in the blood vessel walls, leading to the formation of plaques that can obstruct blood flow. Choice A is incorrect as a low concentration of triglycerides is not typically associated with an increased risk of atherosclerosis or PVD. Choice B is incorrect as high levels of high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol are actually considered protective against atherosclerosis as it helps remove cholesterol from arteries. Choice D is incorrect as low levels of LDL cholesterol are not typically considered a risk factor for atherosclerosis or PVD.
3. A water molecule contains two types of atoms that are covalently bonded. Which of the following makes up a water molecule?
- A. One hydrogen atom and one oxygen atom
- B. One hydrogen atom and two oxygen atoms
- C. Two hydrogen atoms and two oxygen atoms
- D. Two hydrogen atoms and one oxygen atom
Correct answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D: Two hydrogen atoms and one oxygen atom. A water molecule consists of two hydrogen atoms covalently bonded to one oxygen atom. This forms a stable structure known as H2O. Choice A is incorrect as water molecule contains two hydrogen atoms. Choices B and C are incorrect as they do not reflect the correct composition of a water molecule.
4. A client with portosystemic encephalopathy is receiving oral lactulose (Chronulac) daily. The nurse assesses which of the following to determine medication effectiveness?
- A. Lung sounds
- B. Blood pressure
- C. Blood ammonia level
- D. Serum potassium level
Correct answer: C
Rationale: In portosystemic encephalopathy, the liver's ability to detoxify ammonia is impaired, leading to elevated blood ammonia levels, which can cause neurological symptoms such as encephalopathy. Lactulose is given to reduce ammonia levels by promoting its excretion through the bowel. Therefore, assessing the blood ammonia level is crucial to determine the effectiveness of lactulose therapy in managing portosystemic encephalopathy.
5. A father watching the admission of his newborn to the nursery notices that eye ointment is placed in the infant's eyes. He asks what is the purpose of the ointment. The nurse would be correct in stating that the purpose of the ointment is:
- A. Prevent eye infection.
- B. Dilate the pupil so the red reflex can be visualized.
- C. Clear the infant's vision.
- D. Prevent herpes infection.
Correct answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Prevent eye infection. Eye ointment, usually containing erythromycin, is applied to prevent neonatal conjunctivitis, which can be caused by bacteria present in the birth canal. It is not used to dilate the pupil, clear the infant's vision, or prevent herpes infection.