HESI RN
HESI Medical Surgical Test Bank
1. The client with chronic renal failure is being educated on dietary restrictions. Which of the following foods should the client avoid?
- A. Bananas.
- B. Oranges.
- C. Rice.
- D. Apples.
Correct answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Bananas. Bananas are high in potassium, and clients with chronic renal failure are often advised to follow a low-potassium diet to prevent hyperkalemia. Oranges and apples are also high in potassium and should be avoided by clients with renal issues. Rice, on the other hand, is low in potassium and is generally considered safe for individuals with chronic renal failure to consume in moderation.
2. Which of the following lab results is most indicative of dehydration?
- A. Low sodium levels.
- B. Elevated creatinine levels.
- C. Low potassium levels.
- D. High blood glucose levels.
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Elevated creatinine levels are indicative of dehydration because when the body is dehydrated, the kidneys concentrate urine to preserve fluid, leading to higher levels of creatinine. Low sodium levels (Choice A) can be seen in conditions like hyponatremia but are not specific to dehydration. Low potassium levels (Choice C) are more commonly associated with conditions like hypokalemia. High blood glucose levels (Choice D) are typically seen in diabetes and are not specific indicators of dehydration.
3. The nurse is providing teaching to a patient who will begin taking a cephalosporin to treat an infection. Which statement by the patient indicates a need for further teaching?
- A. I may stop taking the medication if my symptoms clear up.
- B. I should eat yogurt while taking this medication.
- C. I should stop taking the drug and call my provider if I develop a rash.
- D. I will not consume alcohol while taking this medication.
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Patients should take all of an antibiotic regimen even after symptoms clear to ensure complete treatment of the infection.
4. A client with cardiovascular disease is scheduled to receive a daily dose of furosemide (Lasix). Which potassium level would cause the nurse to contact the physician before administering the dose?
- A. 3.0 mEq/L
- B. 3.8 mEq/L
- C. 4.2 mEq/L
- D. 5.1 mEq/L
Correct answer: A
Rationale: The normal serum potassium level in adults ranges from 3.5 to 5.1 mEq/L. A potassium level of 3.0 mEq/L is low, indicating hypokalemia and necessitating physician notification before administering furosemide, a loop diuretic that can further lower potassium levels. Potassium levels of 3.8 and 4.2 mEq/L are within the normal range, while a level of 5.1 mEq/L is high (hyperkalemia), but the critical value in this case is the low potassium level that requires immediate attention to prevent potential complications.
5. Four hours following surgical repair of a compound fracture of the right ulna, the nurse is unable to palpate the client's right radial pulse. Which action should the nurse take first?
- A. Notify the healthcare provider of the finding immediately.
- B. Complete a neurovascular assessment of the right hand.
- C. Elevate the client's right hand on one or two pillows.
- D. Measure the client's blood pressure and apical pulse rate.
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Completing a neurovascular assessment of the right hand is the priority in this situation. This assessment will help determine the circulation, sensation, and movement of the affected limb, ensuring there are no complications like compartment syndrome or impaired perfusion. Notifying the healthcare provider immediately (Choice A) might be necessary but should come after assessing the client's neurovascular status. Elevating the client's right hand (Choice C) can be helpful in some cases but should not precede a neurovascular assessment. Measuring the client's blood pressure and apical pulse rate (Choice D) is important but not the priority when assessing a potential vascular compromise in the limb.
Similar Questions
Access More Features
HESI RN Basic
$69.99/ 30 days
- 5,000 Questions with answers
- All HESI courses Coverage
- 30 days access
HESI RN Premium
$149.99/ 90 days
- 5,000 Questions with answers
- All HESI courses Coverage
- 30 days access