HESI LPN
HESI Mental Health Practice Questions
1. During a mental status exam, what factor should the nurse remember when assessing a client's intelligence?
- A. Acute psychiatric illnesses can impair intelligence
- B. Intelligence can be influenced by social and cultural beliefs
- C. Poor concentration skills suggest limited intelligence
- D. The inability to think abstractly indicates limited intelligence
Correct answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B. Intelligence is indeed influenced by social and cultural beliefs. It is essential to recognize that intelligence is not solely determined by innate abilities but can also be shaped by various external factors such as cultural background, education, and social environment. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because acute psychiatric illnesses do not necessarily impair intelligence, poor concentration skills do not always suggest limited intelligence, and the inability to think abstractly alone does not always indicate limited intelligence.
2. How should the healthcare provider respond to a parent concerned about a child's short stature?
- A. Suggest the parent consult a nutritionist
- B. Recommend frequent growth hormone injections
- C. Advise monitoring for a few years before intervention
- D. Refer for a genetic evaluation
Correct answer: C
Rationale: When a parent expresses concern about a child's short stature, the initial approach should involve advising monitoring for a few years before considering any interventions. This allows for observation of the child's growth pattern and any potential underlying issues. Suggesting a nutritionist (Choice A) may not be necessary if there are no signs of nutritional deficiencies. Recommending growth hormone injections (Choice B) is premature without proper evaluation and diagnosis. Referring for a genetic evaluation (Choice D) can be considered later if monitoring shows atypical growth patterns or other concerning factors.
3. A nurse is teaching the parents of a toddler about the signs and symptoms of lead poisoning. Which symptom should the nurse emphasize?
- A. Abdominal pain
- B. Constipation
- C. Irritability
- D. Frequent urination
Correct answer: C
Rationale: Irritability is a significant symptom of lead poisoning in toddlers and should be emphasized to parents. Lead poisoning can manifest with various symptoms, but irritability is particularly common in children exposed to lead. Abdominal pain (Choice A) is not a typical symptom of lead poisoning in toddlers. While constipation (Choice B) can occur, it is less specific and less common than irritability. Frequent urination (Choice D) is not a typical symptom associated with lead poisoning in toddlers and is less relevant for parents to recognize in this context.
4. A healthcare professional is assessing a child with suspected appendicitis. What clinical manifestation is the healthcare professional likely to observe?
- A. Right lower quadrant pain
- B. Left lower quadrant pain
- C. Rebound tenderness
- D. Epigastric pain
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Right lower quadrant pain is a characteristic clinical manifestation of appendicitis. The appendix is typically located in the right lower quadrant of the abdomen, so pain in this area is a common symptom. Left lower quadrant pain (Choice B) is less likely in cases of appendicitis. Rebound tenderness (Choice C) is a sign of peritonitis, not specific to appendicitis. Epigastric pain (Choice D) is more indicative of upper gastrointestinal issues rather than appendicitis.
5. In a case where a limb is protruding from a mother's vagina during active labor, how should this condition be managed?
- A. Positioning the mother in a semi-Fowler's position, administering oxygen, and providing transport
- B. Positioning the mother in a head-down position with her hips elevated, administering oxygen, and providing transport
- C. Applying gentle traction to the protruding limb to remove pressure of the fetus from the umbilical cord
- D. Giving the mother 100% oxygen and attempting to manipulate the protruding limb so that delivery can occur
Correct answer: B
Rationale: When a limb is protruding from the vagina during active labor, the appropriate management includes positioning the mother in a head-down position with her hips elevated. This position helps relieve pressure on the umbilical cord, reducing the risk of compromising fetal blood flow and oxygenation. Administering oxygen is essential to maintain oxygenation levels for both the mother and the fetus. Providing transport to a healthcare facility equipped to manage this obstetric emergency is crucial for ensuring a safe delivery. Choice A is incorrect because a semi-Fowler's position does not effectively relieve pressure on the umbilical cord. Choice C is incorrect as applying traction to the protruding limb can lead to injury or complications for both the mother and the fetus. Choice D is incorrect because attempting to manipulate the limb without proper positioning and preparation can worsen the situation and increase risks during delivery.