HESI LPN
CAT Exam Practice Test
1. The healthcare provider is evaluating a client for potential dehydration. Which assessment finding is most indicative of fluid volume deficit?
- A. Moist mucous membranes
- B. Increased urine output
- C. Decreased skin turgor
- D. Elevated blood pressure
Correct answer: C
Rationale: Corrected Rationale: Decreased skin turgor is a classic sign of dehydration. When someone is dehydrated, the skin loses its elasticity and becomes less turgid. This change is easily assessed by gently pinching and pulling up the skin on the back of the hand or forearm. If the skin remains elevated or tents rather than quickly returning to its normal position, it indicates dehydration. Moist mucous membranes (Choice A) are actually a sign of adequate hydration. Increased urine output (Choice B) can be a sign of dehydration, but decreased skin turgor is a more specific indicator. Elevated blood pressure (Choice D) is not typically associated with fluid volume deficit and may indicate other health issues.
2. Which instruction is most important for the client who receives a new prescription for risedronate sodium to treat osteoporosis?
- A. Remain upright for 30 minutes after taking the medication
- B. Increase intake of foods rich in vitamin D
- C. Begin a low-impact exercise routine
- D. Take the medication with a full glass of water
Correct answer: A
Rationale: The most important instruction for a client receiving risedronate sodium to treat osteoporosis is to remain upright for 30 minutes after taking the medication. Risedronate sodium can cause esophageal irritation, and staying upright helps prevent this side effect. While increasing vitamin D intake, starting a low-impact exercise routine, and taking the medication with a full glass of water are all beneficial for managing osteoporosis, the immediate need is to prevent esophageal irritation caused by risedronate sodium.
3. A client is being treated for minor injuries following an automobile accident in which the only other passenger was killed. The client asks the nurse, 'Is my friend who was in the car with me ok?' What response is best for the nurse to provide?
- A. I am sorry, but your friend was killed in the accident.
- B. Right now you need to concentrate on getting well.
- C. Was the passenger in the car your friend?
- D. I think your friend is going to be all right.
Correct answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: 'I am sorry, but your friend was killed in the accident.' In this situation, honesty and compassion are essential. The nurse should provide the client with truthful information, acknowledging the client's need to know the reality of the situation. Choice B is dismissive and does not address the client's inquiry directly. Choice C is a deflecting question and does not offer the direct information the client is seeking. Choice D provides false reassurance, which is not appropriate in this circumstance where the reality needs to be communicated.
4. After undergoing an uncomplicated gastric bypass surgery, a client is experiencing difficulty managing their diet. What dietary instruction is most important for the nurse to explain to the client?
- A. Chew food slowly and thoroughly before attempting to swallow
- B. Plan volume-controlled evenly spaced meals throughout the day
- C. Sip fluid slowly with each meal and between meals
- D. Eliminate or reduce intake of fatty and gas-forming foods
Correct answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A. Thoroughly chewing food is crucial for clients who have undergone gastric bypass surgery to aid in digestion and prevent complications. Proper chewing helps break down food into smaller particles, making it easier for the digestive system to process. This instruction is essential to prevent issues such as food blockages or inadequate nutrient absorption. Choices B and C are also important for post-gastric bypass clients to maintain proper nutrition and hydration, but they are not as critical as ensuring thorough chewing. Choice D addresses dietary concerns but is not as immediately crucial as ensuring the client chews food properly to support digestion and prevent complications.
5. When assessing a client several hours after surgery, the nurse observes that the client grimaces and guards the incision while moving in bed. The client is diaphoretic, has a radial pulse rate of 110 beats/min, and a respiratory rate of 35 breaths/min. What assessment should the nurse perform first?
- A. Apical heart rate
- B. IV site and fluids
- C. Pain scale
- D. Temperature
Correct answer: C
Rationale: The client’s grimacing and guarding suggest pain; assessing the pain scale is crucial for addressing the discomfort. Pain management is a priority to ensure the client's well-being and comfort. Checking the apical heart rate, IV site and fluids, or temperature can be important but addressing the client's pain takes precedence in this scenario. The elevated pulse rate and respiratory rate could be indicative of pain, making the pain scale assessment essential to guide appropriate interventions.
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