HESI RN
HESI Medical Surgical Exam
1. The client with peripheral artery disease has been prescribed clopidogrel (Plavix). The nurse understands that more teaching is necessary when the client states which of the following?
- A. I should not be surprised if I bruise more easily or if my gums bleed a little when brushing my teeth.
- B. It is important to take this medicine with food to enhance its effectiveness and minimize stomach upset.
- C. I should stop taking Plavix if it makes me feel weak and dizzy.
- D. The doctor prescribed this medicine to make my platelets less likely to stick together and help prevent clots from forming.
Correct answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C. Weakness, dizziness, and headache are common adverse effects of Plavix and should be reported. It is essential to consult a physician before stopping Plavix as it plays a crucial role in preventing platelets from sticking together and forming clots. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect. Choice A is a common side effect of Plavix and does not indicate a need for further teaching. Choice B is incorrect because taking Plavix with or without food can affect its absorption and effectiveness. Choice D correctly explains the purpose of prescribing Plavix to prevent clot formation.
2. When discussing dietary preferences with a client adhering to a vegan diet, which dietary supplement should the nurse encourage the client to include in the dietary plan?
- A. Fiber
- B. Folate
- C. Ascorbic acid
- D. Vitamin B12
Correct answer: D
Rationale: Vitamin B12 is an essential nutrient predominantly found in animal products. Individuals following a vegan diet, which excludes animal products, are at a higher risk of vitamin B12 deficiency. Encouraging the client to include a vitamin B12 supplement in their dietary plan is crucial to prevent deficiency-related health issues. Choices A, B, and C are not specific to addressing the deficiency that vegan diets may cause. Fiber, folate, and ascorbic acid are important but do not directly address the risk of vitamin B12 deficiency in vegan diets.
3. A young woman with multiple sclerosis just received several immunizations in preparation for moving into a college dormitory. Two days later, she reports to the nurse that she is experiencing increasing fatigue and visual problems. What teaching should the nurse provide?
- A. Immunizations can trigger a relapse of the disease, so get plenty of extra rest
- B. Visual problems are unrelated to the recent immunizations
- C. Increase fluid intake to reduce symptoms of fatigue
- D. Consult the healthcare provider immediately for steroid therapy
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Immunizations can sometimes trigger relapses in multiple sclerosis due to the activation of the immune system. Extra rest can help manage these symptoms. Choice B is incorrect because visual problems can be associated with the immune response triggered by immunizations in individuals with multiple sclerosis. While increasing fluid intake is generally good advice, in this case, the nurse should focus on explaining the possible connection between the immunizations and the symptoms experienced. Choice D is not the immediate course of action; educating the patient on the potential link between immunizations and symptom exacerbation is more appropriate at this stage.
4. A client with rheumatoid arthritis is prescribed methotrexate. What is the most important teaching point for the nurse to provide?
- A. Take the medication with food to avoid gastrointestinal upset.
- B. Monitor for signs of infection, such as a sore throat.
- C. Increase fluid intake to prevent dehydration.
- D. Avoid direct sunlight to prevent photosensitivity.
Correct answer: D
Rationale: The most important teaching point for a client prescribed methotrexate is to avoid direct sunlight to prevent photosensitivity. Methotrexate can make the skin more sensitive to sunlight, increasing the risk of sunburn and skin damage. Choices A, B, and C are important aspects of client care but are not specifically related to the side effect of photosensitivity caused by methotrexate.
5. Which of the following is a function of the placenta?
- A. The placenta secretes insulin.
- B. The placenta facilitates the exchange of gases and nutrients between mother and fetus.
- C. The placenta provides immunological protection to the fetus.
- D. The placenta stores fat-soluble vitamins for the fetus.
Correct answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B. The placenta serves as a crucial organ during pregnancy, facilitating the exchange of gases (oxygen and carbon dioxide) and nutrients (such as glucose and amino acids) between the mother and the developing fetus. This exchange is vital for the fetus's growth and development. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect. The placenta does not secrete insulin; insulin is produced by the pancreas. While the placenta provides some immune support to the fetus, its main role is not immunological protection. Additionally, storing fat-soluble vitamins is not a primary function of the placenta.