HESI LPN
HESI PN Exit Exam
1. When assisting an older male client recovering from a stroke to ambulate with a cane, where should the nurse place the cane in relation to the client's body?
- A. In front of the body to lean on while stepping forward
- B. On the opposite side of the affected extremity
- C. Approximately one foot away from the body to stabilize balance
- D. On the same side as the affected extremity
Correct answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: 'On the opposite side of the affected extremity.' Placing the cane on the opposite side of the affected extremity provides maximum support and stability during ambulation for a client recovering from a stroke. This positioning helps to offload weight from the affected side and improves balance. Choice A is incorrect because placing the cane in front of the body can lead to incorrect weight distribution and instability. Choice C is incorrect as placing the cane one foot away from the body may not provide adequate support and can compromise balance. Choice D is incorrect as placing the cane on the same side as the affected extremity does not offer the necessary balance and support needed for safe ambulation.
2. A healthcare professional is measuring vital signs for a client and notices an irregularity in the pulse. Which of the following actions should the healthcare professional take?
- A. Count the apical pulse rate for 1 full minute, and describe the rhythm in the chart.
- B. Recheck the pulse at the same site after 5 minutes.
- C. Measure the client’s blood pressure.
- D. Record the irregularity and continue with other vital signs.
Correct answer: A
Rationale: When an irregular pulse is detected, it is essential to count the apical pulse rate for a full minute to accurately determine the rhythm. This ensures a comprehensive assessment and helps in identifying any potential issues or abnormalities. Rechecking the pulse at the same site after 5 minutes (Choice B) may not provide an immediate understanding of the irregularity. Measuring the client's blood pressure (Choice C) is important but not directly related to addressing the irregular pulse. Recording the irregularity and continuing with other vital signs (Choice D) may overlook a potentially serious cardiac issue that requires immediate attention.
3. When initiating cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), what assessment finding must the healthcare provider confirm before beginning chest compressions?
- A. Absence of a pulse
- B. Presence of a pulse
- C. Respiratory rate
- D. Blood pressure
Correct answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Absence of a pulse. Prior to initiating chest compressions during CPR, it is essential to confirm the absence of a pulse. Chest compressions are indicated when there is no detectable pulse as it signifies cardiac arrest. Checking for a pulse is a critical step to ensure that CPR is performed on individuals who truly require it. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because focusing on the presence of a pulse, respiratory rate, or blood pressure before starting chest compressions can delay life-saving interventions in a person experiencing cardiac arrest.
4. An older female client living in a low-income apartment complex tells the home health nurse that she is concerned about her 81-year-old neighbor, a widow whose son recently assumed her financial affairs. Lately, her neighbor has become reclusive but is occasionally seen walking outside wearing only a robe and slippers. What response should the nurse offer?
- A. Explain that it is not unusual for older adults to suffer from dementia, which often causes such behaviors.
- B. Tell the client to talk to a healthcare provider before reporting suspicion of neglect to the authorities.
- C. Provide the number for Adult Protective Services so the client can report any suspicion of elder abuse.
- D. Encourage the client to avoid becoming involved in the neighbor’s problems for one’s protection.
Correct answer: C
Rationale: The correct response is to provide the number for Adult Protective Services so the client can report any suspicion of elder abuse. This action allows for an official investigation into possible elder abuse or neglect, ensuring the neighbor’s safety and well-being. Choice A is incorrect because assuming dementia without evidence is premature and could lead to overlooking potential abuse. Choice B is incorrect as the situation raises concerns about possible neglect or abuse, which should be reported promptly to the appropriate authorities. Choice D is incorrect as it dismisses the importance of ensuring the safety and well-being of the neighbor in need.
5. The nurse is caring for a 10-year-old with Duchenne muscular dystrophy. As part of the plan of care, the nurse focuses on maintaining his cardiopulmonary function. Which intervention would the nurse implement to best promote maximum chest expansion?
- A. Deep-breathing exercises
- B. Upright positioning
- C. Coughing
- D. Chest percussion
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Upright positioning is the most appropriate intervention to promote maximum chest expansion in a child with Duchenne muscular dystrophy. By keeping the child in an upright position, lung expansion is maximized, which improves breathing efficiency. Deep-breathing exercises may help with overall lung function but do not directly promote chest expansion. Coughing and chest percussion are more related to airway clearance and do not specifically address maximizing chest expansion.