HESI LPN
Community Health HESI Test Bank 2023
1. The nurse is caring for a 75-year-old client in congestive heart failure. Which finding suggests that digitalis levels should be reviewed?
- A. Extreme fatigue
- B. Increased appetite
- C. Intense itching
- D. Constipation
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Extreme fatigue can be a sign of digitalis toxicity, especially in older adults, and warrants a review of the client's medication levels and potential adjustment. Increased appetite, intense itching, and constipation are not typically associated with digitalis toxicity and do not directly indicate a need for a review of digitalis levels.
2. The nurse is caring for a child and family who just moved out of a dangerous neighborhood. Which of the following approaches is appropriate based on the family stress theory?
- A. Determining who the decision-maker is
- B. Assessing the child's coping abilities
- C. Exploring how a sibling feels
- D. Explaining procedures to a sibling
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Assessing the child's coping abilities is appropriate based on the family stress theory because it helps the nurse understand how well the child can manage and adapt to the stressors related to the move. This assessment can guide interventions to support the child's emotional well-being and adjustment. Choices A, C, and D are not directly related to assessing the child's coping abilities and may not address the child's immediate needs during this stressful time.
3. The parents of a child suffering from depression ask the nurse what causes depression in children. Which answer is an appropriate response by the nurse?
- A. The causes of major depression are unknown.
- B. Major affective disorders in parents increase depression in children.
- C. Boys are more likely than girls to be depressed.
- D. The prevalence rate is higher in prepubescent children.
Correct answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B because while the exact causes of depression in children are not fully understood, research indicates that children are more likely to experience depression if their parents have a major affective disorder. Choice A is incorrect because it suggests that the causes of major depression are entirely unknown, which is not accurate. Choice C is incorrect as there is no conclusive evidence that boys are more likely than girls to be depressed. Choice D is incorrect as the prevalence rate of depression is not necessarily higher in prepubescent children specifically.
4. A nurse is developing a teaching plan for an 8-year-old child who has recently been diagnosed with type 1 diabetes. What developmental characteristic of a child this age should the nurse consider?
- A. Child is in the concrete operational stage of cognition.
- B. Child’s dependence on peer influence is increasing.
- C. Child will welcome opportunities for participation in self-care.
- D. Child’s developmental stage involves achieving a sense of autonomy.
Correct answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C. At the age of 8, children are typically in the stage of industry vs. inferiority according to Erikson's psychosocial theory. This stage is characterized by a desire to engage in productive activities and take on responsibilities. Thus, the child will likely welcome opportunities for participation in self-care related to their diabetes management. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect. Choice A is inaccurate as children at this age are usually in the concrete operational stage of cognitive development, not abstract. Choice B is incorrect because while peer influence is significant, it has not reached its peak at this age. Choice D is wrong as achieving a sense of identity is a developmental task more commonly associated with adolescence, not 8-year-old children.
5. When caring for a client with diarrhea due to Shigella, which of the following precautions should the nurse take?
- A. Wash hands before and after contact with the client
- B. Wear a surgical mask
- C. Use a face shield
- D. Wear a gown and gloves only
Correct answer: A
Rationale: The correct precaution for Shigella infection is to wash hands thoroughly before and after contact with the client. Shigella is transmitted through the fecal-oral route, so hand hygiene is crucial in preventing its spread. Wearing a surgical mask or face shield is not necessary for Shigella as it is not primarily transmitted through respiratory droplets. While wearing a gown and gloves is important for standard precautions, the key precaution specific to Shigella is proper hand hygiene.