HESI LPN
LPN Nutrition Practice Test
1. What is a common treatment for a child with iron-deficiency anemia?
- A. Iron supplements
- B. High-protein diet
- C. Vitamin B12 injections
- D. Sodium chloride solution
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Iron supplements are the correct choice for treating iron-deficiency anemia in children. Iron supplements help replenish the low iron levels in the body, addressing the underlying cause of the anemia. High-protein diets may be beneficial for overall health but are not the primary treatment for iron-deficiency anemia. Vitamin B12 injections are used to treat B12 deficiency anemia, a different type of anemia. Sodium chloride solution is not a treatment for anemia and is typically used for hydration purposes.
2. Which of the following foods enhances the absorption of an iron supplement?
- A. Orange juice
- B. Green beans
- C. Fortified milk
- D. Baked potato
Correct answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is Orange juice. Orange juice enhances the absorption of an iron supplement due to its high vitamin C content. Vitamin C helps in the absorption of non-heme iron, the type of iron found in plant-based foods and iron supplements. Green beans, fortified milk, and baked potato do not have the same level of vitamin C as orange juice, making them less effective in enhancing iron absorption.
3. Which action should the school nurse take first when conducting a screening for scoliosis?
- A. Compare dorsal trunk measurements
- B. Have the individual extend arms over the head for visualization
- C. Inspect for symmetrical shoulder height
- D. Observe weight-bearing on each leg
Correct answer: C
Rationale: Inspecting for symmetrical shoulder height is a crucial initial step in screening for scoliosis. Asymmetry in shoulder height can indicate the presence of spinal curvature, which is a key indicator of scoliosis. This assessment is prioritized as it provides a visual clue to potential spinal abnormalities. Choices A, B, and D are not the first steps in scoliosis screening. Choice A involves a more detailed measurement that is not the primary visual indicator for scoliosis; choice B is not a primary indicator of scoliosis but can be used for further examination, and choice D is not directly related to identifying spinal curvature.
4. What nursing diagnosis is the most appropriate for a woman experiencing severe preeclampsia?
- A. Risk for injury to mother and fetus, related to central nervous system (CNS) irritability.
- B. Risk for altered gas exchange.
- C. Risk for deficient fluid volume, related to increased sodium retention secondary to the administration of magnesium sulfate.
- D. Risk for increased cardiac output, related to the use of antihypertensive drugs.
Correct answer: A
Rationale: The most appropriate nursing diagnosis for a woman experiencing severe preeclampsia is 'Risk for injury to mother and fetus, related to central nervous system (CNS) irritability.' Severe preeclampsia poses a significant risk of injury to both the mother and the fetus due to complications such as seizures, stroke, and placental abruption. 'Risk for altered gas exchange' is not the priority diagnosis as pulmonary edema is more common in severe preeclampsia. 'Risk for deficient fluid volume' is incorrect as sodium retention in severe preeclampsia often leads to fluid overload. 'Risk for increased cardiac output' is also incorrect as antihypertensive drugs are used to reduce cardiac output in this condition.
5. A client with chronic kidney disease (CKD) is receiving erythropoietin therapy. What is the primary purpose of this medication?
- A. To lower blood pressure
- B. To improve appetite
- C. To increase red blood cell production
- D. To reduce fluid retention
Correct answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: 'To increase red blood cell production.' Erythropoietin stimulates the production of red blood cells to treat anemia associated with CKD. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because erythropoietin therapy is primarily used to address anemia by increasing the production of red blood cells rather than lowering blood pressure, improving appetite, or reducing fluid retention.