HESI LPN
CAT Exam Practice Test
1. When assessing a client with acute asthma, the nurse is most likely to obtain which finding?
- A. Pursed lip breathing and clubbing of fingers
- B. Fever and a high-pitched inspiratory stridor
- C. A short expiratory phase and hemoptysis
- D. Cough and musical breath sounds on expiration
Correct answer: D
Rationale: When assessing a client with acute asthma, a cough and wheezing or musical breath sounds on expiration are typical findings. Pursed lip breathing and clubbing of fingers (choice A) are not common in acute asthma but could be seen in chronic respiratory conditions. Fever and high-pitched inspiratory stridor (choice B) are more indicative of croup or epiglottitis. A short expiratory phase and hemoptysis (choice C) are not typical findings in acute asthma.
2. How should a healthcare provider respond to a parent concerned about their child's frequent ear infections?
- A. Recommend over-the-counter ear drops
- B. Suggest an ENT specialist evaluation
- C. Advise on increasing fluid intake
- D. Encourage more physical exercise
Correct answer: B
Rationale: When a parent expresses concerns about their child's frequent ear infections, suggesting an ENT specialist evaluation is the most appropriate response. This specialist can conduct a thorough examination to identify the underlying cause of the recurrent infections and recommend the most suitable treatment. Recommending over-the-counter ear drops (Choice A) may not address the root cause of the issue and could potentially lead to inappropriate treatment. Advising on increasing fluid intake (Choice C) and encouraging more physical exercise (Choice D) are unrelated to addressing the specific concern of frequent ear infections.
3. The nurse is caring for a child who has been diagnosed with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). What is the most important intervention for the nurse?
- A. Help the child enroll in a special education class.
- B. Allay any feelings of guilt the parents may have.
- C. Explain to the parents that medications are lifelong.
- D. Teach the parents how to set limits.
Correct answer: B
Rationale: The most important intervention for the nurse in caring for a child with ADHD is to allay any feelings of guilt the parents may have. Parents of children with ADHD often experience guilt or self-blame, thinking they are responsible for their child's condition. By addressing and alleviating these feelings, the nurse can support the parents in a crucial way. Choice A is not the most important intervention because enrolling the child in a special education class might be a consideration but does not address the emotional needs of the parents. Choice C is incorrect because stating that medications are lifelong may cause unnecessary distress to the parents. Choice D is also not the most important intervention as setting limits is important but not as critical as addressing parental guilt and emotions.
4. A healthcare professional is reviewing a client's laboratory report and notes that the serum calcium level is 4.0 mg/dL. The healthcare professional understands that which condition most likely caused this serum calcium level?
- A. Prolonged bed rest
- B. Renal insufficiency
- C. Hyperparathyroidism
- D. Excessive ingestion of vitamin D
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Prolonged bed rest can lead to hypocalcemia due to decreased mobility and bone resorption. In this scenario, the low serum calcium level of 4.0 mg/dL is likely a result of decreased bone activity and calcium release due to prolonged bed rest. Renal insufficiency would more likely lead to hypercalcemia due to impaired excretion of calcium by the kidneys. Hyperparathyroidism is characterized by increased calcium levels as a result of excess parathyroid hormone. Excessive ingestion of vitamin D can cause hypercalcemia by increasing intestinal absorption of calcium.
5. A client has restraints on each extremity. Which of the following assessments should the nurse perform first?
- A. Peripheral pulses
- B. Comfort level
- C. Elimination needs
- D. Skin integrity
Correct answer: A
Rationale: When a client is restrained, the nurse should prioritize assessing peripheral pulses first. This assessment is crucial to monitor circulation and ensure the restraints are not impeding blood flow. Comfort level, elimination needs, and skin integrity are also important assessments; however, assessing peripheral pulses takes precedence to prevent complications such as impaired circulation and tissue damage. By assessing peripheral pulses initially, the nurse can promptly identify and address any circulation issues, which are critical in preventing serious complications.