HESI RN
HESI Medical Surgical Practice Exam
1. Which of the following is a key symptom of hypothyroidism?
- A. Weight loss.
- B. Heat intolerance.
- C. Cold intolerance.
- D. Increased appetite.
Correct answer: C
Rationale: Cold intolerance is a key symptom of hypothyroidism because a decreased metabolic rate leads to a reduced ability to regulate body temperature. Weight loss (Choice A) is more commonly associated with hyperthyroidism, where the metabolic rate is increased. Heat intolerance (Choice B) is also more indicative of hyperthyroidism, where excess thyroid hormone leads to an increased sensitivity to heat. Increased appetite (Choice D) is not typically seen in hypothyroidism; instead, individuals with hypothyroidism may experience weight gain due to the slowed metabolism.
2. A nurse teaches clients about the difference between urge incontinence and stress incontinence. Which statements should the nurse include in this education? (Select all that apply.)
- A. Urge incontinence involves a post-void residual volume less than 50 mL.
- B. Stress incontinence occurs due to weak pelvic floor muscles.
- C. Stress incontinence usually occurs in people with dementia.
- D. Urge incontinence can be managed by increasing fluid intake.
Correct answer: B
Rationale: The correct statement to include in the education about urge incontinence and stress incontinence is choice B. Stress incontinence occurs due to weak pelvic floor muscles or urethral sphincter, leading to the inability to tighten the urethra sufficiently to overcome increased detrusor pressure. This condition is common after childbirth when pelvic muscles are stretched and weakened. Urge incontinence, on the other hand, is characterized by the inability to suppress the contraction signal from the detrusor muscle. It is often associated with abnormal detrusor contractions, which can be due to neurological abnormalities rather than post-void residual volume. Choice A is incorrect because urge incontinence is not defined by post-void residual volume. Choice C is incorrect as stress incontinence is not usually linked to dementia. Choice D is incorrect because increasing fluid intake is not a management strategy for urge incontinence.
3. Which of the following is a key symptom of appendicitis?
- A. Right lower quadrant pain.
- B. Left lower quadrant pain.
- C. Generalized abdominal pain.
- D. Rebound tenderness.
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Corrected Choice A: Right lower quadrant pain is a classic and key symptom of appendicitis. Pain in the right lower quadrant is typically the initial symptom and is a result of inflammation and irritation of the appendix. This pain can start around the umbilicus and then migrate to the right lower quadrant. It is important to note that appendicitis rarely presents with pain in the left lower quadrant or generalized abdominal pain. Rebound tenderness, indicated in Choice D, is a sign of peritoneal irritation and is associated with appendicitis, but it is not as characteristic as the right lower quadrant pain in the initial presentation of appendicitis.
4. A client with diabetes is taking insulin lispro (Humalog) injections. The nurse should advise the client to eat:
- A. Within 10 to 15 minutes after the injection.
- B. 1 hour after the injection.
- C. At any time, because timing of meals with lispro injections is unnecessary.
- D. 2 hours before the injection.
Correct answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is to eat within 10 to 15 minutes after the injection. Insulin lispro, also known as Humalog, is a rapid-acting insulin that starts working very quickly. Eating shortly after the injection helps match the food intake with the insulin action, reducing the risk of hypoglycemia. Choice B is incorrect because waiting 1 hour after the injection may lead to a mismatch between insulin activity and food intake. Choice C is incorrect as timing meals with lispro injections is essential to optimize glycemic control. Choice D is incorrect as eating 2 hours before the injection is not in alignment with the rapid action of insulin lispro and may lead to fluctuations in blood sugar levels.
5. After a lumbar puncture, into which position does the nurse assist the client?
- A. Flat
- B. Semi-Fowler
- C. Side-lying with the head of the bed elevated
- D. Sitting up in a recliner with the feet elevated
Correct answer: A
Rationale: After a lumbar puncture, the client should be positioned flat. This position helps prevent post-procedure spinal headaches and cerebrospinal fluid leakage. Keeping the client flat for up to 12 hours is crucial in minimizing these risks. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because elevating the head of the bed or sitting up can increase the risk of complications by altering the pressure in the spinal canal, potentially leading to headaches and fluid leakage.
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