HESI LPN
HESI PN Nutrition Practice Exam
1. What dietary recommendation is essential for a child with phenylketonuria (PKU)?
- A. High-protein diet
- B. Low-fat diet
- C. Low-phenylalanine diet
- D. High-fiber diet
Correct answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: 'Low-phenylalanine diet.' Children with phenylketonuria (PKU) need to follow a low-phenylalanine diet to manage the condition. Phenylalanine is an amino acid found in protein-containing foods, and individuals with PKU have difficulty metabolizing it, leading to neurological damage and other complications. Therefore, restricting phenylalanine intake is crucial. Choice A, 'High-protein diet,' is incorrect because high protein intake would increase phenylalanine levels, worsening the condition. Choice B, 'Low-fat diet,' and Choice D, 'High-fiber diet,' are not the primary focus for PKU patients. The key dietary intervention for PKU is controlling phenylalanine intake, which is best achieved through a low-phenylalanine diet.
2. The nurse assigns an unlicensed assistive personnel (UAP) to feed a client who is at risk for aspiration. What action should the nurse take to ensure safety?
- A. Inform the UAP that suction is available at the bedside.
- B. Instruct the UAP to notify the nurse if the client chokes.
- C. Observe the UAP's ability to implement precautions during feeding.
- D. Ask the UAP about previous experience in performing this skill.
Correct answer: C
Rationale: Observing the UAP's ability to implement precautions during feeding is crucial to ensuring the client's safety, especially when there is a risk of aspiration. This hands-on observation allows the nurse to assess whether the UAP is competent in handling the feeding procedure safely. Informing the UAP about suction availability (Choice A) is important but does not directly assess the UAP's ability during feeding. Instructing the UAP to notify the nurse if the client chokes (Choice B) focuses on reactive measures rather than proactive supervision. Asking about previous experience (Choice D) does not provide real-time information on the UAP's current competency in handling the specific feeding task for the at-risk client.
3. A healthcare professional is caring for a child who has a prescription for a blood transfusion. The parents have refused the treatment due to religious beliefs. Which of the following actions should the healthcare professional take?
- A. Examine personal values about the issue.
- B. Respect the parents' decision and provide alternative treatment options.
- C. Seek a court order to proceed with the transfusion.
- D. Discuss the issue with the child.
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Examining personal values about the issue is crucial for the healthcare professional to provide unbiased care while still respecting the parents' beliefs. Choice B is incorrect because respecting the parents' decision is essential, but providing alternative treatment options may not be warranted in this situation where the parents' decision is based on religious beliefs. Seeking a court order (Choice C) should only be considered as a last resort when the child's life is in immediate danger and all other options have been exhausted. Discussing the issue with the child (Choice D) may not be appropriate as the child may not fully comprehend the situation or the implications of going against the parents' beliefs.
4. A nurse in a surgical suite notes documentation on a client's medical record stating that he has a latex allergy. In preparation for the client's procedure, which of the following precautions should the nurse take?
- A. Ensure sterilization of non-disposable items with ethylene oxide
- B. Wrap monitoring cords with stockinette and secure them with non-latex tape
- C. Cleanse latex ports on IV tubing with chlorhexidine before administering medication
- D. Wear hypoallergenic latex gloves that are powder-free
Correct answer: B
Rationale: In this scenario, the nurse should take precautions to prevent latex exposure to the client due to his latex allergy. Wrapping monitoring cords with stockinette and securing them with non-latex tape helps to minimize the risk of latex contact with the client. Choice A is incorrect as sterilizing non-disposable items with ethylene oxide does not specifically address the avoidance of latex exposure. Choice C involves using latex ports on IV tubing, which can pose a risk of allergic reaction in a client with a latex allergy. Choice D suggests wearing latex gloves, even if hypoallergenic, which can still trigger a reaction in individuals with latex allergy. Therefore, the best option is to choose non-latex materials like stockinette and non-latex tape to prevent direct contact with latex.
5. A provider prescribes cold application for a client who reports ankle joint stiffness. Which of the following assessment findings should the nurse identify as a contraindication to the application of cold?
- A. Capillary refill of 4 seconds
- B. 7.5 cm (3 in) diameter bruise on the ankle
- C. Warts on the affected ankle
- D. 2+ pitting edema
Correct answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A. Capillary refill of 4 seconds indicates poor circulation, which is a contraindication to cold application as it could worsen the condition by further reducing blood flow. Choice B, a 7.5 cm (3 in) diameter bruise on the ankle, does not directly contraindicate cold application but may need evaluation for possible underlying injuries. Choice C, warts on the affected ankle, do not necessarily contraindicate cold application. Choice D, 2+ pitting edema, is not a direct contraindication to cold application but may need to be addressed separately.