HESI RN
HESI Medical Surgical Test Bank
1. The healthcare provider is assessing a client who is receiving hemodialysis for the first time. Which of the following findings should be reported to the healthcare provider immediately?
- A. Blood pressure of 150/90 mm Hg.
- B. Nausea and vomiting.
- C. Fatigue.
- D. Headache.
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Nausea and vomiting are critical symptoms that should be reported immediately when a client is receiving hemodialysis for the first time. These symptoms could indicate a severe complication, such as hypotension, infection, electrolyte imbalance, or other adverse reactions to the procedure. It is essential to address these symptoms promptly to prevent further complications or harm to the client. Choices A, C, and D are not immediate concerns during the first hemodialysis session and can be addressed appropriately after addressing the urgent issue of nausea and vomiting.
2. A client is scheduled for a spiral CT scan with contrast to evaluate for pulmonary embolism. Which information in the client's history requires follow-up by the nurse?
- A. Is allergic to shellfish
- B. Has a history of smoking
- C. Takes metformin for type 2 diabetes mellitus
- D. Has hypertension controlled with medication
Correct answer: A
Rationale: An allergy to shellfish often indicates an allergy to iodine, which is used in contrast dyes for CT scans. This poses a significant risk of an allergic reaction during the procedure. The nurse must ensure appropriate precautions or alternative imaging are considered. Choices B, C, and D are not directly contraindicated for a CT scan with contrast. Smoking history, metformin use, and controlled hypertension do not typically impact the safety or feasibility of the procedure.
3. A scrub nurse preparing for the first surgery of the day asks if a 3-minute surgical hand scrub is adequate. What should the circulating nurse advise?
- A. Proceed with surgery preparation
- B. Extend scrub time to 5 minutes
- C. Use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer
- D. Scrub time depends on the type of surgery
Correct answer: B
Rationale: The circulating nurse should advise the scrub nurse to extend the hand scrub to 5 minutes for thorough preparation, especially for the first surgery of the day. Choice A is incorrect as it does not address the need for a longer scrub time. Choice C is incorrect as alcohol-based hand sanitizer is not a substitute for a thorough surgical hand scrub. Choice D is incorrect as while scrub time may vary based on the surgery, for the first surgery of the day, a longer scrub time is recommended as a standard practice.
4. Which client is most likely to be at risk for spiritual distress?
- A. Roman Catholic woman considering an abortion
- B. Jewish man considering hospice care for his wife
- C. Seventh-day Adventist in need of a blood transfusion
- D. Muslim man in need of a total knee replacement
Correct answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A. In Roman Catholicism, abortion is strictly prohibited, so a Roman Catholic woman considering this procedure may experience spiritual distress due to conflicts with her religious beliefs. This conflict can lead to emotional and psychological turmoil, affecting her spiritual well-being. It is essential for healthcare providers to recognize and address such conflicts with sensitivity and understanding to provide holistic care.
5. The parents of a 2-year-old child with a history of febrile seizures are being taught by the healthcare provider. Which statement by the parents indicates a need for further teaching?
- A. We should give our child acetaminophen when they have a fever.
- B. We should not place our child in a cool bath during a seizure.
- C. We should call 911 if the seizure lasts longer than 5 minutes.
- D. We should try to keep our child’s fever under control.
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Placing a child in a cool bath during a seizure is not recommended as it can be dangerous and may lead to accidental drowning or injuries. The priority during a febrile seizure is to ensure the safety of the child by placing them on a soft surface, removing any nearby objects that may cause harm, and gently turning their head to the side to prevent aspiration. Cooling measures like removing excess clothing can be employed, but immersing the child in a cool bath is not advised. Calling 911 if the seizure lasts longer than 5 minutes is important to seek immediate medical assistance. Administering acetaminophen to reduce fever and trying to keep the child's fever under control are appropriate interventions which should be continued.