HESI LPN
HESI Fundamentals Exam
1. While bathing a patient, the nurse notices movement in the patient's hair. What action should the nurse take?
- A. Use gloves to inspect the hair.
- B. Apply a lindane-based shampoo immediately.
- C. Shave the patient's hair off.
- D. Ignore the movement and continue.
Correct answer: A
Rationale: When a nurse suspects pediculosis capitis (head lice) upon noticing movement in the patient's hair, the correct action is to use gloves to inspect the hair. This protects the nurse from potential self-infestations. Applying a lindane-based shampoo immediately (Choice B) is not the first action, as diagnosis and confirmation are necessary before treatment. Shaving the patient's hair off (Choice C) is an extreme measure and is unnecessary at this stage. Ignoring the movement and continuing (Choice D) is negligent and can lead to the spread of infestation.
2. A client postoperative expresses pain during dressing changes. What should the nurse prioritize?
- A. Administer pain medication 45 minutes before changing the client’s dressing.
- B. Change the dressing less frequently.
- C. Apply a topical anesthetic before removing the dressing.
- D. Use a non-adherent dressing to reduce pain.
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Administering pain medication before changing the dressing is the priority action as it will help alleviate the client's pain and improve comfort. Choice B, changing the dressing less frequently, may hinder proper wound care and healing. Applying a topical anesthetic (choice C) might offer some relief but systemic pain medication is more effective. Using a non-adherent dressing (choice D) can reduce pain during dressing changes, but addressing immediate pain with medication is the most appropriate intervention in this case.
3. Which of the following findings would indicate altered mental status in a small child?
- A. Recognition of the parents
- B. Fright at the EMT-B's presence
- C. Lack of attention to the EMT-B's presence
- D. Consistent eye contact with the EMT-B
Correct answer: C
Rationale: In small children, altered mental status can manifest as a lack of attention to the presence of unfamiliar individuals, such as the EMT-B. This lack of engagement may indicate confusion, disorientation, or impaired cognitive function. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect as recognizing parents, exhibiting fear, or maintaining consistent eye contact do not necessarily indicate altered mental status. Recognizing parents is a normal response, fear can be a typical reaction to unfamiliar situations, and making eye contact may be a sign of curiosity or comfort rather than a reflection of mental status.
4. A healthcare provider is providing discharge teaching to a client who does not speak the same language. Which of the following actions should the healthcare provider take?
- A. Use proper medical terms when providing instructions to the client.
- B. Offer written instructions in the client’s language.
- C. Direct verbal discharge instructions to the interpreter.
- D. Request that an assistive personnel interpret instructions for the client.
Correct answer: B
Rationale: The correct action for the healthcare provider when providing discharge teaching to a client who does not speak the same language is to offer written instructions in the client’s language. This approach helps ensure better comprehension and adherence to the instructions as the client can refer back to the written material for clarification. Choice A is incorrect because using proper medical terms may not be effective if the client does not understand the language. Choice C is incorrect since verbal instructions should be directed to the client for better understanding. Choice D is incorrect as assistive personnel may not be qualified or trained to provide accurate interpretation, risking miscommunication and potential errors in the instructions.
5. The healthcare professional is preparing to administer an intramuscular injection to an adult client. Which site is most appropriate for the LPN/LVN to use?
- A. Deltoid muscle
- B. Ventrogluteal site
- C. Dorsogluteal site
- D. Rectus femoris site
Correct answer: B
Rationale: The ventrogluteal site is the most appropriate and safest site for administering an intramuscular injection to an adult client. It is preferred due to its thick muscle mass and fewer major blood vessels and nerves in the area, reducing the risk of injury or complications. The deltoid muscle is commonly used for vaccines and small-volume injections but may not be suitable for larger volumes. The dorsogluteal site has fallen out of favor due to the risk of injury to the sciatic nerve and other underlying structures. The rectus femoris site is not typically used for intramuscular injections in adults.