HESI LPN
HESI PN Exit Exam 2024
1. In obtaining an orthostatic vital sign measurement, what action should the nurse take first?
- A. Count the client's radial pulse
- B. Apply a blood pressure cuff
- C. Instruct the client to lie supine
- D. Assist the client to stand upright
Correct answer: C
Rationale: The correct first action when obtaining an orthostatic vital sign measurement is to instruct the client to lie supine. This allows for establishing a baseline measurement of vital signs before any positional changes. Counting the client's radial pulse (Choice A) is a step that follows after the initial supine position to assess changes in pulse rate. Applying a blood pressure cuff (Choice B) and assisting the client to stand upright (Choice D) are actions that come later in the process after the baseline measurements are obtained in the supine position.
2. A client with a diagnosis of rheumatoid arthritis is prescribed methotrexate. What is the primary action of this medication?
- A. Increases joint lubrication
- B. Reduces inflammation by suppressing the immune system
- C. Enhances bone density
- D. Stimulates cartilage regeneration
Correct answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Methotrexate is an immunosuppressant that works by suppressing the immune system, thereby reducing inflammation in rheumatoid arthritis. Methotrexate does not directly increase joint lubrication (Choice A) as its primary action is on the immune system. Choices C and D are incorrect since methotrexate does not enhance bone density or stimulate cartilage regeneration. It is crucial for healthcare providers to understand the mechanism of action of medications to provide safe and effective care to patients.
3. What is the most common method of attempted suicide?
- A. Hanging
- B. Drug overdose
- C. Gunshot
- D. Slashing the wrists
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Drug overdose is the most common method of attempted suicide. While hanging, gunshot, and slashing the wrists are also methods used in suicide attempts, statistics show that drug overdose is the most prevalent method chosen by individuals attempting suicide. Hanging, gunshot, and slashing the wrists are indeed common methods as well, but drug overdose ranks highest in terms of frequency.
4. Which assessment finding indicates that the expected outcome of administering donepezil to a client with Alzheimer's disease has been accomplished?
- A. Increased muscle strength and tone
- B. Fewer episodes of urinary incontinence
- C. Decreased confusion and improved mood
- D. Reversal of the disease process as evidenced by increased functioning
Correct answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C. Donepezil is a medication used for individuals with Alzheimer's disease. Its mechanism of action involves increasing acetylcholine levels by inhibiting its breakdown, which benefits cognitive function. The expected outcome of administering donepezil is a decrease in confusion and an improvement in mood due to the medication's impact on neurotransmitters. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because donepezil does not primarily target muscle strength, urinary incontinence, or disease reversal; instead, it aims to slow down the progression of cognitive decline in Alzheimer's disease.
5. A nurse is caring for a client with depression who has been prescribed sertraline (Zoloft). The client reports experiencing nausea. What is the nurse's best response?
- A. "You should stop taking the medication immediately."
- B. "Nausea is a common side effect and usually decreases over time."
- C. "Try taking the medication with food to reduce nausea."
- D. "I will inform the healthcare provider to change your medication."
Correct answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: "Nausea is a common side effect of sertraline, and clients should be reassured that it usually decreases as their body adjusts to the medication." Choice A is incorrect because abruptly stopping the medication without consulting a healthcare provider can be harmful. Choice C is a good suggestion to reduce nausea by taking the medication with food but does not address the temporary nature of the side effect. Choice D is unnecessary at this point since nausea is a common side effect that may improve with time.