HESI LPN
CAT Exam Practice Test
1. When deciding whether to join a nursing strike called after collective bargaining efforts have failed, which factor is most important for the nurse to consider?
- A. Nurse Practice Act of the State
- B. The role of nurses as client advocates
- C. Standards of clinical nursing practice
- D. Personal value system
Correct answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B. The role of nurses as client advocates is crucial when considering the impact of a strike on patient care. Nurses have a responsibility to advocate for their patients' well-being at all times. Choices A, C, and D, although important, are not the most critical factor to consider in this situation. The Nurse Practice Act of the State is essential for guiding nursing practice, standards of clinical nursing practice ensure quality care, and personal values are important; however, the primary focus during a strike should be on the role of nurses as client advocates.
2. Select a myth or falsehood relating to pain, pain management, and addiction.
- A. Addiction can be accurately predicted.
- B. Withdrawal, drug tolerance, and physical dependence do not indicate addiction.
- C. Pain medications should be avoided in patients with a substance abuse history.
- D. Addiction is signaled by deception and stockpiling by the client.
Correct answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A because addiction cannot be accurately predicted. Choices B and C are incorrect. Withdrawal, drug tolerance, and physical dependence are not definitive signs of addiction, and pain medications can be used with patients who have a substance abuse history under careful monitoring. Choice D is incorrect because addiction is not solely signaled by deception and stockpiling; it is a complex condition with various behavioral, physical, and psychological aspects.
3. During an admission assessment, a nurse is documenting a client's medication. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?
- A. Counsel the client on medication adherence.
- B. Assess the client for medication reactions.
- C. Compile a list of the client's current medications.
- D. Evaluate the client's understanding of medications.
Correct answer: C
Rationale: During an admission assessment, compiling a list of the client's current medications is crucial for accurate documentation and planning. This information helps prevent medication errors, identify potential interactions, and ensure continuity of care. While counseling the client on medication adherence (Choice A) is important, it is not the primary action when documenting medications. Assessing the client for medication reactions (Choice B) is relevant for monitoring side effects but not the immediate focus during documentation. Evaluating the client's understanding of medications (Choice D) is essential for education but does not address the immediate need for compiling a list of current medications.
4. What is an early sign of congestive heart failure that the nurse should recognize?
- A. tachypnea
- B. bradycardia
- C. inability to sweat
- D. increased urinary output
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Tachypnea is an early sign of congestive heart failure that nurses should recognize. Tachypnea refers to rapid breathing, which can be an indication of the body's attempt to compensate for decreased cardiac output in congestive heart failure. Bradycardia (choice B) is a slow heart rate and is not typically associated with congestive heart failure. Inability to sweat (choice C) and increased urinary output (choice D) are not specific early signs of congestive heart failure and are not typically recognized as such.
5. A client is recovering from a right-sided mastectomy and is concerned about lymphedema. What should the nurse include in the discharge teaching to minimize this risk?
- A. Encourage wearing tight clothing on the affected arm.
- B. Advise against lifting heavy objects with the affected arm.
- C. Recommend the client sleep on the affected side.
- D. Suggest frequent massage of the affected arm.
Correct answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Advise against lifting heavy objects with the affected arm. Lifting heavy objects with the affected arm can increase the risk of lymphedema. It is important for clients to avoid activities that strain the affected arm to minimize the risk of developing lymphedema. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because wearing tight clothing on the affected arm, sleeping on the affected side, and frequent massage of the affected arm can potentially worsen lymphedema or impede the recovery process. Tight clothing can impede lymphatic flow, sleeping on the affected side can restrict circulation, and frequent massage can exacerbate swelling in the arm.