HESI RN
Biology Practice Test
1. What function does cholesterol, a phospholipid, serve within the cell membrane?
- A. It builds up fats to make the structure more flexible
- B. It allows protein channels to form
- C. It makes the structure very rigid and impermeable
- D. It stabilizes the membrane structure
Correct answer: D
Rationale: Cholesterol helps to maintain the fluidity and stability of the cell membrane by fitting between the phospholipid molecules. Choice A is incorrect because cholesterol does not build up fats in the cell membrane. Choice B is incorrect as protein channels are formed by proteins, not cholesterol. Choice C is incorrect as cholesterol actually helps regulate the fluidity of the membrane, making it less rigid and more permeable.
2. In a client with heart failure presenting bilateral +4 edema of the right ankle extending up to midcalf while sitting with legs dependent, what is the priority goal?
- A. Decrease venous congestion.
- B. Maintain normal respirations.
- C. Maintain body temperature.
- D. Prevent injury to lower extremities.
Correct answer: A
Rationale: The priority goal in this scenario is to decrease venous congestion. By elevating the legs above the heart level, venous return is improved, reducing congestion in the lower extremities. This intervention helps decrease swelling and prevents complications such as impaired tissue perfusion. Maintaining normal respirations and body temperature are important aspects of care but are secondary to addressing the immediate issue of venous congestion. Preventing injury to lower extremities is also essential but takes precedence after managing the venous congestion to prevent further complications.
3. Why have recent polls placed nursing as one of the most trusted professions?
- A. Nurses engage in lifelong learning.
- B. Nurses abide by a dress code.
- C. Nurses have the skills needed to care for diverse populations.
- D. Nurses must pass the NCLEX in order to obtain a license to practice.
Correct answer: C
Rationale: Recent polls have identified nursing as one of the most trusted professions primarily because nurses possess the essential skills required to provide care to diverse populations. This includes cultural competence, empathy, effective communication, and clinical expertise. Choice A, engaging in lifelong learning, is indeed an important aspect of nursing practice; however, it is not the primary reason for the high level of trust placed in nurses. Choice B, abiding by a dress code, is a professional conduct issue and not directly linked to the trustworthiness of nurses. Choice D, passing the NCLEX exam for licensure, is a regulatory requirement and does not directly contribute to the trust placed in nurses by the public.
4. Which of the following ethical principles involves the fair and equitable distribution of resources?
- A. Justice
- B. Fidelity
- C. Autonomy
- D. Veracity
Correct answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Justice. Justice is the ethical principle that focuses on the fair and equitable distribution of resources, ensuring that all individuals receive appropriate care based on their needs. Fidelity (B) refers to being faithful or loyal to commitments and obligations. Autonomy (C) relates to respecting an individual's right to make their own decisions. Veracity (D) pertains to truthfulness and honesty in communication with patients.
5. What is the mechanism of action of corticotropin (Acthar) when prescribed as replacement therapy for a male client who has undergone surgical removal of a pituitary tumor?
- A. It decreases cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) production and affects the metabolic rate of target organs.
- B. It interacts with plasma membrane receptors to inhibit enzymatic actions.
- C. It interacts with plasma membrane receptors to produce enzymatic actions that affect protein, fat, and carbohydrate metabolism.
- D. It regulates the threshold for water reabsorption in the kidneys.
Correct answer: C
Rationale: Corticotropin (ACTH) stimulates the adrenal cortex to secrete cortisol and other hormones, affecting protein, fat, and carbohydrate metabolism. Choice A is incorrect because corticotropin does not decrease cAMP production; instead, it stimulates enzymatic actions. Choice B is incorrect because corticotropin does not inhibit enzymatic actions but rather produces enzymatic actions. Choice D is incorrect because corticotropin's mechanism of action does not involve regulating the threshold for water reabsorption in the kidneys.