HESI LPN
HESI PN Nutrition Practice Exam
1. What should be monitored in a child with congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH)?
- A. Blood glucose levels
- B. Electrolyte balance
- C. Urine output
- D. Hemoglobin levels
Correct answer: B
Rationale: In a child with congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH), monitoring electrolyte balance is crucial. CAH can lead to adrenal insufficiency, causing imbalances in electrolytes such as sodium and potassium. Monitoring electrolyte levels helps in preventing complications like dehydration, electrolyte disturbances, and adrenal crisis. While blood glucose levels may need monitoring in other conditions like diabetes, it is not the primary concern in CAH. Urine output is important in assessing kidney function but is not a direct monitoring parameter for CAH. Hemoglobin levels are more relevant in conditions such as anemia, not specifically in CAH.
2. An adult male was diagnosed with stage IV lung cancer three weeks ago. His wife approaches the nurse and asks how she will know that her husband's death is imminent because their two adult children want to be there when he dies. What is the best response by the nurse?
- A. Explain that the client will start to lose consciousness and his body systems will slow down
- B. Reassure the spouse that the healthcare provider will let her know when to call the children
- C. Offer to discuss the client’s health status with each of the adult children
- D. Gather information on how long it will take for the children to arrive
Correct answer: A
Rationale: The best response for the nurse is to explain that the client will start to lose consciousness and his body systems will slow down. Providing information on the signs of impending death helps the family prepare emotionally and allows them to be present at the appropriate time. Choice B is incorrect because it does not empower the family with the knowledge they seek. Choice C is incorrect as discussing the client’s health status individually with the adult children may not address the wife's immediate concern. Choice D is incorrect as the priority should be on preparing the family for the signs of imminent death rather than focusing on logistical details.
3. What is an important nursing responsibility when a dysrhythmia is suspected?
- A. order an immediate electrocardiogram
- B. count the radial pulse every 1 minute for five times
- C. count the apical pulse for 1 full minute, and compare the rate with the radial pulse rate
- D. have someone else take the radial pulse simultaneously with the apical pulse
Correct answer: C
Rationale: When a dysrhythmia is suspected, an important nursing responsibility is to count the apical pulse for 1 full minute and then compare this rate with the radial pulse rate. This method helps in identifying dysrhythmias as it allows for a direct comparison of the heart's rhythm at two different pulse points. Ordering an immediate electrocardiogram (Choice A) may be necessary but should not be the first step. Counting the radial pulse multiple times (Choice B) is not as accurate as comparing rates directly. Having someone else take the radial pulse simultaneously (Choice D) may introduce errors and inconsistencies in the measurement.
4. A client with chronic renal failure is receiving peritoneal dialysis. The nurse should assess the client for which of the following complications?
- A. Hypertension
- B. Hyperglycemia
- C. Hypokalemia
- D. Hypernatremia
Correct answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Hyperglycemia. In peritoneal dialysis, hyperglycemia can occur due to the glucose content of the dialysate solution. This high glucose concentration can lead to increased blood sugar levels in the client. Option A, Hypertension, is a common complication in chronic renal failure but is not directly related to peritoneal dialysis. Option C, Hypokalemia, is more commonly associated with loop diuretics or inadequate potassium intake. Option D, Hypernatremia, is more often seen in conditions of excessive sodium intake or water loss, rather than in peritoneal dialysis.
5. What is the first step a healthcare professional should take when preparing to provide tracheostomy care?
- A. Perform hand hygiene
- B. Gather equipment
- C. Explain the procedure
- D. Assess the client
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Performing hand hygiene is the initial step a healthcare professional should take when preparing to provide tracheostomy care. This step is crucial to prevent the transmission of pathogens and reduce the risk of infection to the client. By cleansing the hands, the healthcare professional ensures patient safety. While gathering equipment, explaining the procedure, and assessing the client are essential components of tracheostomy care, they should occur after performing hand hygiene to maintain aseptic technique and minimize the risk of introducing harmful microorganisms to the client.