HESI RN
Biology Practice Test
1. In the hierarchy of biology, cells combine to form which of the following?
- A. Macromolecules
- B. Molecules
- C. Tissues
- D. Organelles
Correct answer: C
Rationale: In the hierarchy of biology, cells combine to form tissues. Tissues are groups of cells that work together to perform specific functions. This is a fundamental level of organization above individual cells but below organs and organ systems. Macromolecules and molecules are smaller components that make up cells, not what cells combine to form. Organelles are structures within cells that perform specific functions and do not result from the combination of cells.
2. What action should the nurse take when a child presents with fever, sore throat, swollen red spots, and fluid-filled blisters?
- A. Obtain a fluid culture from the blisters
- B. Administer a fever-reducing medication
- C. Cover the drainage vesicles with a dressing
- D. Implement transmission precautions
Correct answer: D
Rationale: When a child presents with fever, sore throat, swollen red spots, and fluid-filled blisters, it may indicate a contagious viral infection. In such cases, implementing transmission precautions is crucial to prevent the spread of the infection to others in the pediatric clinic or community. Obtaining a fluid culture from the blisters (Choice A) may not be necessary at the initial stage without knowing the cause of the infection. Administering a fever-reducing medication (Choice B) may help manage symptoms but doesn't address the need for preventing transmission. Covering the drainage vesicles with a dressing (Choice C) may provide comfort to the child but does not directly address the risk of transmission to others.
3. A young woman who underwent a liver transplant one year ago tells the clinic nurse that she would like to start a family. How should the nurse intervene?
- A. Provide information about the high-risk nature of her pregnancy.
- B. Gently remind the client that anti-rejection drugs can cause sterility.
- C. Explain the benefits of waiting for a five-year post-transplant period.
- D. Determine if the client is considering options for adopting a child.
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Post-liver transplant pregnancy is high-risk due to potential complications associated with immunosuppressive therapy and the transplanted organ's health. Providing information about the risks involved allows the client to make an informed decision regarding family planning.
4. A client with Diabetes Insipidus (DI) is being cared for by a nurse. Which data warrants the most immediate intervention by the nurse?
- A. Serum sodium of 185 mEq/L (185 mmol/L)
- B. Dry skin with poor skin turgor
- C. Apical rate of 110 beats per minute
- D. Polyuria and excessive thirst
Correct answer: A
Rationale: A serum sodium level of 185 mEq/L (185 mmol/L) is dangerously high and indicates severe dehydration, requiring immediate intervention to prevent neurological damage. The other options are not as critical as high serum sodium levels, which can lead to serious complications such as seizures, coma, and death if not promptly addressed. Dry skin with poor skin turgor and polyuria with excessive thirst are common findings in clients with Diabetes Insipidus and should be managed but do not pose an immediate threat to the client's life. An apical heart rate of 110 beats per minute may indicate tachycardia, which could be related to dehydration but is not as urgent as addressing the severe hypernatremia.
5. A primipara patient asks what is the best pet to have at home to share time with. Which pet is not recommended?
- A. Dog
- B. Cat
- C. Bird
- D. Fish
Correct answer: C
Rationale: Birds are not recommended as pets for a primipara patient due to potential health risks associated with bird droppings, feathers, and dander. These factors may pose a risk to the newborn's health and the mother's well-being. Additionally, some birds can be loud, which may disrupt the baby's sleep patterns. Therefore, it is advisable for primipara patients to consider pets like dogs, cats, or fish as they generally have lower associated risks in a household with a newborn. Dogs, cats, and fish are relatively safer options compared to birds for primipara patients due to their lower risk of transmitting infections, allergens, or causing disturbances that could affect the newborn or the mother.