HESI LPN
HESI Fundamentals Practice Questions
1. The nurse is caring for a patient who has experienced a stroke causing total paralysis of the right side. To help maintain joint function and minimize the disability from contractures, passive range of motion (ROM) will be initiated. When should the nurse begin this therapy?
- A. After the acute phase of the disease has passed.
- B. As soon as the ability to move is lost.
- C. Once the patient enters the rehab unit.
- D. When the patient requests it.
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Passive ROM exercises should begin as soon as the patient loses the ability to move the extremity or joint. Initiating passive ROM early helps prevent contractures and maintain joint function. Choice A is incorrect because delaying passive ROM until after the acute phase may lead to irreversible contractures. Choice C is not the best option as waiting until the patient enters the rehab unit delays crucial preventive measures. Choice D is incorrect as passive ROM should not be based on patient requests but on clinical indications and best practices.
2. A client who delivered a healthy newborn an hour ago asked the nurse when she can go home. Which information is most important for the nurse to provide the client?
- A. After the baby no longer demonstrates acrocyanosis
- B. After the baby receives the vitamin K injection
- C. When ambulating to avoid causing dizziness
- D. When there is no significant vaginal bleeding
Correct answer: D
Rationale: The most critical information for the nurse to provide the client is ensuring that there is no significant vaginal bleeding before discharge. This is vital to prevent complications such as postpartum hemorrhage. Options A, B, and C are important aspects of postpartum care, but assessing and managing vaginal bleeding takes precedence due to its potential seriousness.
3. The PN is assisting the recreational director of a long-term care facility to plan outdoor activities for wheelchair-bound older residents who are mentally alert. Which activity meets the physical and social needs of these residents?
- A. An open-air concert
- B. A tea party in the courtyard
- C. A team ring-toss competition
- D. A picnic in the park
Correct answer: B
Rationale: A tea party in the courtyard is the most suitable activity as it allows for social interaction in a comfortable and accessible environment. Wheelchair-bound residents can easily participate, fostering both physical and social engagement. An open-air concert may pose challenges regarding accessibility and comfort for wheelchair-bound individuals. A team ring-toss competition involves physical activity that may not be inclusive for all residents, especially those in wheelchairs. A picnic in the park may also present challenges related to accessibility and comfort for wheelchair-bound individuals.
4. Which electrolyte imbalance is most commonly associated with seizures?
- A. Hyponatremia
- B. Hypercalcemia
- C. Hyperkalemia
- D. Hypokalemia
Correct answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Hyponatremia. Hyponatremia, characterized by low sodium levels in the blood, can lead to cerebral edema and seizures due to water shifting into brain cells. Hypercalcemia (choice B) does not commonly cause seizures but can result in muscle weakness and cardiac arrhythmias. Hyperkalemia (choice C) may lead to muscle weakness and cardiac arrhythmias, but it is less frequently associated with seizures. Hypokalemia (choice D) is linked to muscle weakness and cardiac arrhythmias but is not typically related to seizures.
5. Which of the following statements about breastfeeding is correct?
- A. Breastfeeding within 30 minutes after birth can stimulate breastmilk production
- B. Breastmilk should be started 24 hours after delivery
- C. Breastmilk given exclusively for the first 4 to 6 months of life helps avoid introduction of infection
- D. Breastfeeding should be done as often as the baby wants
Correct answer: C
Rationale: The correct statement about breastfeeding is that breastmilk given exclusively for the first 4 to 6 months of life helps avoid the introduction of infection. This practice is recommended by health experts for optimal infant health. Choice A is incorrect because breastfeeding should ideally start within the first hour after birth to stimulate breastmilk production. Choice B is incorrect because breastmilk should be initiated as soon as possible after delivery, not after 24 hours. Choice D is incorrect because while feeding on demand is generally encouraged, it should also follow a schedule to ensure adequate nutrition and growth for the baby.