HESI LPN
HESI Mental Health Practice Questions
1. The LPN/LVN is caring for a client who has been prescribed a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) for depression. Which statement by the client indicates a need for further teaching?
- A. I need to avoid foods that are high in tyramine, like aged cheese and cured meats.
- B. I should take this medication with food to avoid nausea.
- C. I can drink alcohol in moderation while taking this medication.
- D. I can stop taking this medication once I feel better.
Correct answer: C
Rationale: The statement 'I can drink alcohol in moderation while taking this medication' indicates a need for further teaching because alcohol consumption can have dangerous interactions with MAOIs. MAOIs can interact with alcohol to cause a hypertensive crisis, which can be life-threatening. Choices A and B are correct statements as avoiding tyramine-rich foods and taking the medication with food can help prevent adverse effects. Choice D is incorrect because abruptly stopping an antidepressant medication like an MAOI can lead to withdrawal symptoms and a relapse of depression.
2. An older female adult who lives in a nursing home is loudly demanding that the nurse call her son who has been deceased for five years. Which intervention should the nurse implement?
- A. Assist the client in making the phone call.
- B. Remind the client about her son's passing.
- C. Escort the client to a private area.
- D. Direct the client to a new activity.
Correct answer: D
Rationale: In this situation, the most appropriate intervention is to direct the client to a new activity. This approach can help redirect the client's attention, distract her from the distressing request, and engage her in a more positive interaction. Choice A could exacerbate the client's distress by attempting to make the impossible call, and reminding the client about her son's passing (Choice B) may increase her emotional distress. Escorting the client to a private area (Choice C) does not address the underlying issue and may not effectively manage the situation.
3. A client who delivered a healthy newborn an hour ago asked the nurse when she can go home. Which information is most important for the nurse to provide the client?
- A. After the baby no longer demonstrates acrocyanosis
- B. After the baby receives the vitamin K injection
- C. When ambulating to avoid causing dizziness
- D. When there is no significant vaginal bleeding
Correct answer: D
Rationale: The most critical information for the nurse to provide the client is ensuring that there is no significant vaginal bleeding before discharge. This is vital to prevent complications such as postpartum hemorrhage. Options A, B, and C are important aspects of postpartum care, but assessing and managing vaginal bleeding takes precedence due to its potential seriousness.
4. A client with schizophrenia is experiencing distressful thoughts secondary to paranoia. Which intervention(s) should the LPN/LVN include in the plan of care? Select one intervention that does not apply.
- A. Avoid laughing when near the client
- B. Whisper when communicating near the client
- C. Increase socialization of the client among peers
- D. Have the client sign a written release of information form
Correct answer: B
Rationale: The correct intervention for a client with schizophrenia experiencing distressful thoughts secondary to paranoia is to avoid laughing when near the client. This is important as laughter can be misinterpreted and exacerbate the client's paranoia. Whispering when communicating near the client is not an appropriate intervention as it may lead the client to think secretive or negative information is being shared about them, further fueling their paranoia. Increasing socialization among peers can help provide support and reduce feelings of isolation, while having the client sign a written release of information form is not directly related to managing paranoia and distressful thoughts.
5. The practical nurse administered carbidopa-levodopa to a client diagnosed with Parkinson's disease. Which outcome by the client would indicate a therapeutic response?
- A. Decreased blood pressure
- B. Lessening of tremors
- C. Increased salivation
- D. Increased attention span
Correct answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Lessening of tremors. Carbidopa-levodopa increases the amount of levodopa to the CNS, providing more dopamine to the brain. Increased dopamine levels help alleviate Parkinson's symptoms such as tremors, involuntary movements, and gait abnormalities. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect as carbidopa-levodopa is not expected to have a direct effect on blood pressure, salivation, or attention span in the context of treating Parkinson's disease.