HESI RN
HESI Medical Surgical Exam
1. The client with deep vein thrombosis (DVT) in the left lower leg is receiving heparin therapy. Which of the following assessments is the most important for the nurse to perform?
- A. Measure the circumference of the left leg.
- B. Assess for signs of bleeding, such as bruising or hematuria.
- C. Monitor the client's vital signs.
- D. Monitor the client's respiratory status.
Correct answer: B
Rationale: The most important assessment for a client with DVT on heparin therapy is to monitor for signs of bleeding, such as bruising or hematuria. Heparin is an anticoagulant medication that can increase the risk of bleeding. Assessing for bleeding is crucial to prevent complications like hemorrhage. Measuring the circumference of the leg may be relevant for assessing for edema but is not as critical as monitoring for bleeding. Monitoring vital signs and respiratory status are important aspects of care but are not the priority when the client is on heparin therapy for DVT.
2. A client is admitted with acute kidney injury (AKI) and a urine output of 2000 mL/day. What is the major concern of the nurse regarding this client’s care?
- A. Edema and pain
- B. Electrolyte and fluid imbalance
- C. Cardiac and respiratory status
- D. Mental health status
Correct answer: B
Rationale: The major concern for a client admitted with acute kidney injury (AKI) and a high urine output of 2000 mL/day is electrolyte and fluid imbalance. In AKI, there may be an inflammatory cause leading to proteins entering the glomerulus, resulting in fluid being held in the filtrate and causing polyuria. Electrolyte loss and fluid balance are critical to monitor and manage in AKI cases. Edema and pain are not typically associated with fluid loss. While changes in cardiac, respiratory, and mental health status can occur if electrolyte imbalance is not addressed, the primary focus should be on managing electrolyte and fluid balance to prevent further complications.
3. A 5-year-old child with leukemia is receiving chemotherapy. The nurse notes that the child’s white blood cell count is low. What is the nurse’s priority intervention?
- A. Administer antibiotics as prescribed
- B. Place the child in protective isolation
- C. Encourage the child to eat a balanced diet
- D. Teach the parents about infection prevention
Correct answer: B
Rationale: The priority intervention for a 5-year-old child with leukemia receiving chemotherapy and having a low white blood cell count is to place the child in protective isolation. This intervention helps reduce the risk of infection, which is crucial in this immunocompromised state. Protective isolation aims to limit the child's exposure to pathogens and promote their safety during a period of increased vulnerability to infections.
4. The structures of the vulva lie ____________ to the vagina.
- A. Posterior
- B. Inferior
- C. Lateral
- D. Superior
Correct answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is 'Inferior.' The structures of the vulva are positioned below the vagina, making them inferior. Choice A, 'Posterior,' refers to structures located at the back, not below the vagina. Choice C, 'Lateral,' means to the side, which is not the correct orientation in this context. Choice D, 'Superior,' indicates above, which is the opposite of the correct relationship described in the question.
5. A client has suspected compartment syndrome of the right lower leg. What is the nurse’s priority intervention?
- A. Elevate the right leg to reduce swelling.
- B. Loosen any restrictive dressings on the leg.
- C. Prepare the client for emergency surgery.
- D. Administer pain medication as prescribed.
Correct answer: B
Rationale: In a suspected case of compartment syndrome, the nurse's priority intervention is to loosen any restrictive dressings on the leg. This action helps to relieve pressure within the affected compartment, improve circulation, and prevent permanent damage. Elevating the leg may further increase pressure, preparing for emergency surgery is premature without proper assessment and diagnosis, and administering pain medication should come after addressing the primary issue of relieving pressure.