HESI LPN
HESI Fundamentals Study Guide
1. The nurse is caring for a client diagnosed with hypothyroidism. Which finding should the nurse expect to observe?
- A. Weight gain
- B. Heat intolerance
- C. Increased appetite
- D. Frequent diarrhea
Correct answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is weight gain. In hypothyroidism, there is a decrease in metabolic rate, which can lead to weight gain. Heat intolerance (choice B) is more commonly associated with hyperthyroidism. Increased appetite (choice C) and frequent diarrhea (choice D) are not typical findings in hypothyroidism. Therefore, choices B, C, and D are incorrect.
2. When a client with hypertension is prescribed losartan, what potential side effect should the nurse monitor for?
- A. Hyperkalemia
- B. Dry cough
- C. Bradycardia
- D. Headache
Correct answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Dry cough. Losartan, an angiotensin II receptor blocker, can lead to a dry cough as a potential side effect. This occurs due to the drug's effect on the bradykinin pathway in the lungs. Monitoring for a dry cough is essential as it may indicate the need for further evaluation or medication adjustment to manage this adverse reaction.
3. When teaching a group of parents in the daycare center about accident prevention, the nurse explains that young toddlers are prone to injuries from falls. When receiving feedback, the nurse identifies that more teaching is needed when one parent states, 'I will:'
- A. keep medications in a medicine cabinet.
- B. have secured gates at entrances to staircases.
- C. move our child to a regular bed by the appropriate age.
- D. buy shoes that close with Velcro rather than laces.
Correct answer: C
Rationale: Moving a child to a regular bed by the appropriate age is not recommended as it can increase the risk of falls. Toddlers should transition to a regular bed only when developmentally ready to prevent accidents. Keeping medications in a medicine cabinet (Choice A) promotes safety by preventing accidental ingestion. Securing gates at entrances to staircases (Choice B) helps prevent falls down stairs. Buying shoes that close with Velcro rather than laces (Choice D) is a good practice to prevent tripping and falling.
4. A healthcare professional is assessing postoperative circulation of the lower extremities for a client who had knee surgery. The healthcare professional should test which of the following?
- A. Range of motion
- B. Skin color
- C. Edema
- D. Skin temperature
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Corrected Rationale: Assessing skin color is crucial to evaluate perfusion and circulation postoperatively. Skin color changes can indicate compromised circulation, such as pallor or cyanosis. Edema may suggest fluid retention but is not a direct indicator of circulation status. Range of motion is more related to joint function and mobility, not specifically circulation.
5. What should the nurse do to complete a focused assessment for a female client with inflamed and painful hemorrhoids?
- A. Determine if the client uses any over-the-counter preparations for hemorrhoids
- B. Place the client in a standing position, leaning over the exam bed for inspection
- C. Position the client in the left lateral position to inspect the perineal area for fissures or sacs
- D. Ask the client how long she has experienced discomfort related to hemorrhoids
Correct answer: D
Rationale: Asking the client about the duration of discomfort related to hemorrhoids is the best intervention to implement for a focused assessment. This information provides important context for assessing the severity and chronicity of the condition, which is crucial for developing an appropriate care plan. Choices A, B, and C do not directly address the need to gather information about the duration of symptoms, which is essential for understanding the client's condition.