HESI RN
Community Health HESI 2023 Quizlet
1. The nurse is caring for a client with cirrhosis of the liver. Which laboratory result requires immediate intervention?
- A. Serum albumin of 3.5 g/dL.
- B. Prothrombin time (PT) of 12 seconds.
- C. Hemoglobin of 10 g/dL.
- D. Serum ammonia level of 180 mcg/dL.
Correct answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D, the serum ammonia level of 180 mcg/dL. An elevated serum ammonia level indicates hepatic dysfunction and can lead to hepatic encephalopathy, which is a medical emergency requiring immediate intervention. Options A, B, and C are within normal ranges or slightly abnormal values for clients with cirrhosis and do not pose an immediate threat. Serum albumin levels may indicate malnutrition, prothrombin time may reflect liver synthetic function, and hemoglobin levels can be affected by various factors but do not require immediate intervention in this scenario.
2. When reviewing developmental changes with the parents of a 6-month-old infant, what information should the practical nurse reinforce?
- A. Encourage the infant to self-feed finger foods.
- B. Teach the parents strategies to help the infant sit up.
- C. Provide a developmentally safe environment for the infant.
- D. Explain that an increased appetite typically occurs in the next 6 months.
Correct answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C because providing a developmentally safe environment for a 6-month-old infant is crucial as they begin to explore their surroundings more actively. This includes ensuring that the environment is free of hazards and that the infant is supervised to prevent accidents. Choice A is incorrect because self-feeding finger foods may not be developmentally appropriate for a 6-month-old infant. Choice B is incorrect as most infants are able to sit up with support around 6 months of age without the need for specific teaching strategies. Choice D is also incorrect as while appetite changes can occur, explaining a specific increase in appetite over the next 6 months is not a primary focus when discussing developmental changes with parents of a 6-month-old.
3. A client with acute pancreatitis is admitted with severe abdominal pain. Which assessment finding requires immediate intervention?
- A. Severe abdominal distention
- B. Decreased urine output
- C. Decreased bowel sounds
- D. Increased heart rate
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Severe abdominal distention is a sign of worsening pancreatitis and can indicate complications like bowel obstruction or fluid accumulation. Immediate intervention is necessary to prevent further deterioration. Decreased urine output (Choice B) could indicate renal impairment, decreased bowel sounds (Choice C) are expected in pancreatitis due to paralytic ileus, and an increased heart rate (Choice D) is a common response to pain or stress in acute pancreatitis but may not require immediate intervention unless it is extremely high or persistent.
4. A healthcare professional is preparing to administer digoxin (Lanoxin), 0.125 mg orally, to a client with heart failure. Which vital sign is most important for the healthcare professional to check before administering the medication?
- A. Heart rate
- B. Temperature
- C. Respirations
- D. Blood pressure
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Before administering digoxin, it is essential to assess the client's heart rate as this medication directly affects cardiac function. Monitoring the heart rate helps identify if it is within the acceptable range for administering digoxin. A pulse rate below 60 beats per minute warrants withholding the medication to prevent potential adverse effects like bradycardia or cardiac arrhythmias.
5. The healthcare provider is developing a health education program for pregnant women on the importance of prenatal care. Which topic should be prioritized?
- A. the benefits of breastfeeding
- B. nutrition and weight gain during pregnancy
- C. the stages of fetal development
- D. signs and symptoms of preterm labor
Correct answer: D
Rationale: Prioritizing the discussion on signs and symptoms of preterm labor is essential as it empowers pregnant women to recognize warning signs promptly and seek medical assistance to prevent potential complications. Understanding preterm labor signs, such as abdominal cramping, pelvic pressure, or vaginal bleeding, can lead to early intervention and improve maternal and fetal outcomes. While topics like breastfeeding benefits, nutrition during pregnancy, and fetal development stages are important, identifying signs of preterm labor takes precedence due to its immediate impact on maternal and fetal well-being.