HESI RN
HESI Maternity Test Bank
1. What maternal behavior is typically observed when a new mother first receives her infant?
- A. She eagerly reaches for the infant, undresses the infant, and examines the infant completely.
- B. Her arms and hands receive the infant and she then traces the infant's profile with her fingertips.
- C. Her arms and hands receive the infant and she then cuddles the infant to her own body.
- D. She eagerly reaches for the infant and then holds the infant close to her own body.
Correct answer: B
Rationale: When a new mother first receives her infant, a typical maternal behavior is to use her arms and hands to receive the infant and then trace the infant's profile with her fingertips. This action is a gentle way of bonding with the newborn and aids in recognizing the infant's features. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect as they do not accurately describe the common behavior of tracing the infant's profile, which is a significant part of the initial interaction between a mother and her newborn.
2. The nurse is measuring the frontal occipital circumference (FOC) of a 3-month-old infant, notes that the FOC has increased by 5 cm since birth, and observes that the child’s head appears large in relation to body size. Which action is most important for the nurse to take next?
- A. Measure the infant’s head-to-heel length
- B. Observe the infant for sunsetting eyes
- C. Palpate the anterior fontanel for tension and bulging
- D. Plot the measurement on the infant’s growth chart
Correct answer: C
Rationale: Palpating the anterior fontanel for tension and bulging is essential to assess for increased intracranial pressure, which could be indicated by the enlarged head circumference. This assessment can help identify potential neurological issues that need prompt attention.
3. A newborn with a yellow abdomen and chest is being assessed. What should be the nurse's initial action?
- A. Assess bilirubin level.
- B. Administer phototherapy.
- C. Encourage feeding to help reduce bilirubin levels.
- D. Perform a bilirubin test every hour.
Correct answer: A
Rationale: The correct action when assessing a newborn with a yellow abdomen and chest is to initially assess the bilirubin level. This helps determine the severity of jaundice in the newborn. Administering phototherapy (choice B) is a treatment intervention that follows the assessment. Encouraging feeding (choice C) can help with bilirubin excretion but is not the initial assessment. Performing a bilirubin test every hour (choice D) may not be necessary initially and could lead to unnecessary interventions.
4. A client at 18-weeks gestation was informed this morning that she has an elevated alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) level. After the healthcare provider leaves the room, the client asks what she should do next. What information should the nurse provide?
- A. Inform her that a repeat alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) should be evaluated.
- B. Discuss options for intrauterine surgical correction of congenital defects.
- C. Reassure the client that the AFP results are likely to be a false reading.
- D. Explain that a sonogram should be scheduled for definitive results.
Correct answer: D
Rationale: An elevated alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) level in a pregnant client can indicate potential congenital anomalies in the fetus. A follow-up sonogram is necessary to provide definitive results and further evaluate the fetus for any possible abnormalities. Therefore, it is essential for the nurse to explain to the client that scheduling a sonogram is the next appropriate step to assess the fetal well-being and address any concerns regarding the elevated AFP level. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect because a repeat AFP test alone, discussing surgical correction of defects, or assuming the results are false without further evaluation are not appropriate responses when dealing with a potentially serious issue like elevated AFP levels in pregnancy.
5. During a woman's first prenatal visit, the nurse reviews her health care record, noting a history of chickenpox as a child and syphilis as a teenager. Which action is most important for the nurse to take?
- A. Obtain blood and urine for prenatal screens.
- B. Schedule prenatal visits to occur monthly.
- C. Explain common complications of pregnancy.
- D. Obtain baseline blood pressure and weight.
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Obtaining blood and urine for prenatal screens is crucial in identifying any potential infections or conditions that may require monitoring throughout the pregnancy. Screening for infections such as syphilis is essential to ensure appropriate management and prevent adverse outcomes. This action helps in early detection and timely intervention, promoting the health and well-being of both the mother and the developing fetus. The other options, while important during prenatal care, are not as critical as obtaining prenatal screens to assess for any existing infections that could impact the pregnancy.
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