HESI RN
HESI RN Exit Exam
1. The nurse is caring for a client with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) who is receiving supplemental oxygen. Which assessment finding requires immediate intervention?
- A. Oxygen saturation of 90%
- B. Respiratory rate of 24 breaths per minute
- C. Use of accessory muscles
- D. Inspiratory crackles
Correct answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C. The use of accessory muscles is most concerning in a client with COPD receiving supplemental oxygen as it indicates increased work of breathing, requiring immediate intervention. Oxygen saturation of 90% is acceptable in a client with COPD. A respiratory rate of 24 breaths per minute is slightly elevated but not as critical as the use of accessory muscles. Inspiratory crackles may be present in clients with COPD due to underlying lung changes but do not require immediate intervention unless associated with other concerning symptoms.
2. A client is newly prescribed lithium for bipolar disorder. Which finding is most important to report to the healthcare provider?
- A. A serum lithium level of 1.2 mEq/L.
- B. Fine hand tremors noted after starting the medication.
- C. A blood pressure of 110/60 mmHg.
- D. A serum sodium level of 140 mEq/L.
Correct answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B. Fine hand tremors noted after starting lithium are an early sign of lithium toxicity. It is crucial to report this finding to the healthcare provider promptly. Adjusting the dose or monitoring serum levels more closely may be necessary to prevent further toxicity. Choice A, a serum lithium level of 1.2 mEq/L, is within the therapeutic range (0.6-1.2 mEq/L) for treating bipolar disorder. Choice C, a blood pressure of 110/60 mmHg, and Choice D, a serum sodium level of 140 mEq/L, are within normal limits and not directly related to lithium therapy or toxicity.
3. A client who is taking clonidine (Catapres, Duraclon) reports drowsiness. Which additional assessment should the nurse make?
- A. How long has the client been taking the medication?
- B. Assess the client's dietary habits.
- C. Check for signs of infection.
- D. Evaluate the client's sleep pattern.
Correct answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A. When a client reports drowsiness while taking clonidine, the nurse should assess how long the client has been taking the medication. Drowsiness is a common side effect that can occur in the early weeks of treatment with clonidine. By understanding the duration of medication use, the nurse can determine if the drowsiness is a temporary effect that may decrease over time. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because assessing the client's dietary habits, checking for signs of infection, or evaluating the client's sleep pattern would not directly address the drowsiness associated with clonidine use.
4. The healthcare professional is developing a safety program for older adults at a senior center. Which topic should the professional prioritize?
- A. medication management
- B. fall prevention
- C. fire safety
- D. emergency preparedness
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Fall prevention should be prioritized for older adults as falls are a significant cause of injury and hospitalization in this population. Addressing fall prevention measures can help reduce the risk of falls and improve the overall safety and well-being of older adults. Medication management, fire safety, and emergency preparedness are also important topics, but fall prevention takes precedence due to its direct impact on the health and safety of older adults.
5. Which assessment is most important for the nurse to include in the daily plan of care for a client with a burned extremity?
- A. Distal pulse intensity
- B. Skin integrity
- C. Pain levels
- D. Range of motion
Correct answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Distal pulse intensity. Monitoring distal pulses is crucial to ensure that circulation to the extremity is not compromised. This assessment helps in detecting any signs of decreased circulation, which is vital in managing a burned extremity. While skin integrity (choice B), pain levels (choice C), and range of motion (choice D) are also important assessments, monitoring distal pulse intensity takes precedence as it directly reflects the perfusion status of the affected extremity in a burned client.