HESI RN
HESI Practice Test Pediatrics
1. The healthcare provider is assessing an infant with diarrhea and lethargy. Which finding should the provider identify that is consistent with early dehydration?
- A. Tachycardia
- B. Bradycardia
- C. Dry mucous membranes
- D. Decreased skin turgor
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Tachycardia is a common early sign of dehydration in infants. It is important for healthcare providers to be vigilant in monitoring infants with these symptoms, as prompt intervention is crucial to prevent further complications.
2. The healthcare provider is preparing to administer a vaccine to a 5-year-old child. The child is visibly anxious and asks if the shot will hurt. What is the healthcare provider’s best response?
- A. It might hurt a little, but it will be over quickly
- B. It won't hurt at all, don't worry
- C. You're a big kid now, and big kids don't cry
- D. If you don't think about it, it won't hurt
Correct answer: A
Rationale: When a child expresses fear or anxiety about receiving a vaccination, it is essential for the healthcare provider to provide honest and reassuring information. Choice A acknowledges the potential for some discomfort but also reassures the child that it will be over quickly. This response validates the child's feelings while also preparing them for the procedure. Choices B, C, and D either provide false reassurance, dismiss the child's feelings, or suggest avoidance, which are not appropriate responses in this situation.
3. The nurse is caring for a 3-year-old child who has been recently diagnosed with cystic fibrosis. Which discharge instruction by the nurse is most important to promote pulmonary function?
- A. Chest physiotherapy should be performed before meals and at bedtime
- B. Cough suppressants can be used up to four times a day for relief
- C. Oxygen should be given through a nasal cannula between 4-6 L/min
- D. Exercise is discouraged in order to preserve pulmonary vital capacity
Correct answer: B
Rationale: In cystic fibrosis, thick mucus obstructs the airways, making it difficult to clear from the lungs. Cough suppressants can help reduce the discomfort associated with persistent coughing, allowing the child to cough more effectively to clear the mucus, thus promoting pulmonary function. Chest physiotherapy, not exercise, helps mobilize the mucus. Oxygen therapy may be needed but is not the most important for promoting pulmonary function in this case.
4. The nurse is assessing a 3-month-old infant who was brought to the clinic by the parents due to concerns about the infant’s feeding. The parents report that the infant has been vomiting after every feeding and has not gained any weight. What should the nurse assess first?
- A. Evaluate the infant’s feeding technique
- B. Check the infant’s hydration status
- C. Measure the infant’s abdominal circumference
- D. Review the infant’s growth chart
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Assessing hydration status is crucial in an infant who is vomiting frequently, as dehydration can quickly become a serious issue. In this scenario, the infant's inability to retain feeds and lack of weight gain may indicate a potential risk of dehydration, making it essential to prioritize checking the infant's hydration status to prevent complications. Evaluating the feeding technique (Choice A) could be important but is secondary to addressing potential dehydration. Measuring the abdominal circumference (Choice C) and reviewing the growth chart (Choice D) are not the priority in this situation where dehydration is a primary concern.
5. When caring for a 5-year-old child with a history of seizures who suddenly begins to have a tonic-clonic seizure, what should the nurse do first?
- A. Administer oxygen
- B. Insert an oral airway
- C. Turn the child to the side
- D. Start an IV line
Correct answer: C
Rationale: During a tonic-clonic seizure, the priority action is to turn the child to the side. This helps maintain an open airway and prevents aspiration of secretions or vomitus. It also helps in keeping the airway clear and promotes safety during the seizure episode. Administering oxygen, inserting an oral airway, and starting an IV line are important interventions but should follow the initial step of positioning the child to prevent airway obstruction.
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