HESI LPN
HESI Fundamentals Study Guide
1. Following major abdominal surgery, a client postoperative refuses to use the incentive spirometer. What is the nurse's priority?
- A. Determine the reason why the client is refusing to use the incentive spirometer.
- B. Insist that the client use the incentive spirometer.
- C. Administer pain medication to help the client use the spirometer.
- D. Document the refusal in the client’s medical record.
Correct answer: A
Rationale: The nurse's priority in this situation is to determine the reason why the client is refusing to use the incentive spirometer. By understanding the client's concerns or barriers, the nurse can address them effectively and encourage the client to use the spirometer for optimal postoperative recovery. Insisting that the client use the spirometer without understanding the underlying reason may lead to further resistance. Administering pain medication as a solution does not address the root cause of refusal and may not be necessary if pain is not the primary reason for refusal. Documenting the refusal is important but should come after understanding the client's perspective to provide appropriate care and follow-up.
2. The RN is preparing to administer a prescribed dose of haloperidol (Haldol) to a client with schizophrenia. The client begins to exhibit muscle rigidity, fever, and altered mental status. What action should the RN take first?
- A. Administer the haloperidol as prescribed.
- B. Monitor the client's vital signs closely.
- C. Hold the medication and notify the healthcare provider.
- D. Give the client an antipyretic for the fever.
Correct answer: C
Rationale: Muscle rigidity, fever, and altered mental status are symptoms of neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS), a potentially life-threatening reaction to antipsychotic medications. The RN should hold the medication and notify the healthcare provider immediately. Option A is incorrect because administering more of the medication can worsen the symptoms. Option B is not the first priority when the client is experiencing symptoms of NMS. Option D is incorrect as addressing the fever alone does not address the underlying issue of NMS caused by haloperidol.
3. Which of the following statements is true of a sperm cell?
- A. A sperm cell is significantly larger than an egg cell.
- B. A sperm cell contains two Y chromosomes.
- C. A sperm cell travels randomly inside a woman’s reproductive tract.
- D. A sperm cell is one of the smallest types of cells in the body.
Correct answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D. A sperm cell is indeed one of the smallest cells in the human body, much smaller than an egg cell. Choice A is incorrect as sperm cells are much smaller than egg cells. Choice B is incorrect because a sperm cell carries either an X or a Y chromosome, not two Y chromosomes. Choice C is incorrect since sperm cells move in a purposeful manner guided by various factors within a woman's reproductive tract, not randomly.
4. Which nursing diagnosis is commonly used among patients affected by fibromyalgia?
- A. Decreased self-care in activities of daily living related to fatigue
- B. Impaired mental functioning related to electrolyte imbalances
- C. Increased vigilance secondary to electrolyte imbalances
- D. At risk for a swallowing disorder related to fibromyalgia
Correct answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: 'Decreased self-care in activities of daily living related to fatigue.' Patients with fibromyalgia commonly experience fatigue, which can lead to decreased ability to perform self-care activities. This nursing diagnosis addresses a direct consequence of fibromyalgia. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because they do not directly correlate with the common manifestations of fibromyalgia. Impaired mental functioning related to electrolyte imbalances and increased vigilance secondary to electrolyte imbalances are not typical presentations of fibromyalgia. 'At risk for a swallowing disorder related to fibromyalgia' is not a common nursing diagnosis associated with fibromyalgia; swallowing disorders are not a primary symptom of this condition.
5. The client is being taught about the use of syringes and needles for home administration of medications. Which action by the client indicates an understanding of standard precautions?
- A. Remove the needle after discarding used syringes
- B. Wear gloves while disposing of the needle and syringe
- C. Wear a face mask during medication administration
- D. Wash hands before handling the needle and syringe
Correct answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D. Washing hands before handling the needle and syringe is a critical step in infection control and adherence to standard precautions. Clean hands help prevent the transfer of microorganisms and reduce the risk of infection. Choices A, B, and C do not directly relate to standard precautions. Removing the needle after discarding used syringes (Choice A) can increase the risk of needlestick injuries. Wearing gloves while disposing of the needle and syringe (Choice B) is important for personal protection but does not specifically address standard precautions. Wearing a face mask during medication administration (Choice C) is not directly related to handling syringes and needles, which are more pertinent to standard precautions.