HESI LPN
Medical Surgical HESI 2023
1. What most influences the severity of respiratory distress syndrome (RDS)?
- A. Poor cough and gag reflex
- B. The gestational age at birth
- C. Administering high concentrations of oxygen
- D. The sex of the infant
Correct answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B. The gestational age at birth most influences the severity of respiratory distress syndrome (RDS). RDS is caused by a deficiency of surfactant and it occurs almost exclusively in preterm, low-birth weight infants. Therefore, the gestational age at birth is a key factor in determining the likelihood and severity of RDS. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect as they do not directly relate to the primary factor influencing the severity of RDS.
2. In the scientific method, a tentative solution to a problem is called a what?
- A. theory
- B. prediction
- C. hypothesis
- D. correlation
Correct answer: C
Rationale: In the scientific method, a hypothesis is a tentative solution or educated guess that is tested through research. A theory (choice A) is a well-substantiated explanation based on evidence and extensive testing. A prediction (choice B) is a statement about what will happen in the future based on existing knowledge. Correlation (choice D) refers to a mutual relationship between two or more things, indicating how they may change together but not providing a solution to a problem.
3. Which task can the RN delegate to an unlicensed assistive personnel (UAP)?
- A. Take a history on a newly admitted client
- B. Adjust the rate of a gastric tube feeding
- C. Check the blood pressure of a 2-hour postoperative client
- D. Check on a client receiving chemotherapy
Correct answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C. Checking the blood pressure of a 2-hour postoperative client is a task that can be safely delegated to an unlicensed assistive personnel (UAP) as it falls within their scope of practice. This task is routine and does not require specialized nursing knowledge or critical decision-making. Options A, B, and D involve tasks that require a higher level of training and critical thinking beyond the scope of a UAP. Taking a history, adjusting tube feeding rates, and monitoring a client receiving chemotherapy are responsibilities that should be performed by licensed healthcare providers who have the necessary skills and training.
4. When admitting a client with Parkinson's disease to the home healthcare service, which nursing diagnosis should have priority in planning care?
- A. Impaired physical mobility related to muscle rigidity and weakness.
- B. Ineffective coping related to depression and dysfunction due to disease progression.
- C. Ineffective breathing pattern related to respiratory muscle weakness.
- D. Fear related to constant possibility of experiencing seizures.
Correct answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: 'Impaired physical mobility related to muscle rigidity and weakness.' For a client with Parkinson's disease, impaired physical mobility is a priority nursing diagnosis because of the characteristic motor symptoms such as muscle rigidity, bradykinesia, and postural instability. Addressing impaired physical mobility is crucial to enhance the client's quality of life. Choices B, C, and D are not the priority nursing diagnoses for a client with Parkinson's disease. Ineffective coping (Choice B) and fear of seizures (Choice D) may be concerns but are not the priority. Ineffective breathing pattern (Choice C) is not typically associated with Parkinson's disease.
5. The mother of a toddler calls the nurse for help as the baby is choking on his food. The nurse determines that the Heimlich maneuver is necessary based on which finding?
- A. Inability of the toddler to cry or speak
- B. Coughing forcefully
- C. Gagging but able to breathe
- D. Wheezing during respiration
Correct answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is option A: Inability of the toddler to cry or speak. In cases of choking, the inability to cry or speak indicates a severe airway obstruction where the Heimlich maneuver is necessary to clear the obstruction and establish a patent airway. Option B, coughing forcefully, represents a partial obstruction where the child can still move air, making the Heimlich maneuver not immediately necessary. Option C, gagging but able to breathe, suggests a partial obstruction where air is moving, and the child can still breathe, not requiring immediate intervention like the Heimlich maneuver. Option D, wheezing during respiration, is more indicative of a lower airway issue such as asthma rather than an upper airway obstruction that necessitates the Heimlich maneuver.