HESI RN
Biology Test
1. In DNA, the nucleotide base adenine always binds with which of the following?
- A. Guanine
- B. Uracil
- C. Thymine
- D. Cytosine
Correct answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: Thymine. In DNA, adenine always pairs with thymine, forming a base pair held together by hydrogen bonds. Guanine pairs with cytosine. Uracil is found in RNA, not DNA. Cytosine pairs with guanine. Therefore, option C is the correct pairing for adenine in DNA.
2. After a spider bite on the lower extremity, a client is admitted to treat an infection that is spreading up the leg. Which admission assessment findings should the nurse report to the healthcare provider?
- A. Swollen lymph nodes in the groin
- B. Core body temperature of 100.5°F
- C. All of the above
- D. Elevated white blood cell count
Correct answer: C
Rationale: All of the above findings should be reported to the healthcare provider for prompt evaluation and treatment. Swollen lymph nodes in the groin indicate regional lymphatic involvement, a core body temperature of 100.5°F suggests a mild fever response, and an elevated white blood cell count indicates an ongoing infection process. These findings collectively point towards the spread of infection and require immediate attention to prevent further complications.
3. A client with a history of alcoholism is admitted with confusion, ataxia, and nystagmus. Which nursing intervention is a priority for this client?
- A. Monitor for signs of alcohol withdrawal.
- B. Administer thiamine as prescribed.
- C. Provide a quiet environment to reduce confusion.
- D. Initiate fall precautions.
Correct answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Administer thiamine as prescribed. Administering thiamine is crucial in clients with a history of alcoholism to prevent Wernicke's encephalopathy, which is characterized by confusion, ataxia, and nystagmus. Monitoring for signs of alcohol withdrawal (choice A) is important but not the priority. Providing a quiet environment (choice C) and initiating fall precautions (choice D) are important interventions, but administering thiamine takes precedence due to the risk of Wernicke's encephalopathy.
4. A client with a history of heart failure is admitted with a diagnosis of pulmonary edema. Which intervention should the nurse implement first?
- A. Administer oxygen via non-rebreather mask.
- B. Administer furosemide (Lasix) IV push.
- C. Insert a Foley catheter to monitor urine output.
- D. Position the client in a high Fowler's position.
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Administering oxygen via a non-rebreather mask is the priority intervention for a client with pulmonary edema to improve oxygenation and address respiratory distress. Adequate oxygenation is essential to support vital organ function. Administering furosemide intravenously, inserting a Foley catheter to monitor urine output, and positioning the client in a high Fowler's position are important interventions but are secondary to ensuring optimal oxygenation in this client with pulmonary edema.
5. Basal body temperature rise of _____ is seen in the luteal phase due to the thermogenic effects of a metabolite of progesterone in a normal cycle:
- A. 0.1-0.5
- B. 0.2-0.5
- C. 1.0-2.0
- D. 1.5-2.0
Correct answer: B
Rationale: A basal body temperature rise of 0.2-0.5 degrees Celsius is typically seen in the luteal phase of the menstrual cycle due to the thermogenic effects of a metabolite of progesterone. This temperature rise helps to indicate ovulation has occurred. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect as they do not reflect the usual range of temperature increase observed during the luteal phase. A rise of 0.1-0.5 degrees Celsius is too narrow (eliminating choice A), while ranges of 1.0-2.0 and 1.5-2.0 degrees Celsius are too high and not consistent with the expected basal body temperature changes during the menstrual cycle.