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 client with chronic heart failure is being taught by a nurse about the importance of daily weights. Which of the following instructions should the nurse include?
- A. Weigh yourself at the same time every day.
- B. Use the same scale for weighing each time.
- C. Record your weight in a journal or log.
- D. Report any weight gain of more than 2 to 3 pounds in a day.
Correct answer: D
Rationale: The correct instruction for a client with chronic heart failure is to report any weight gain of more than 2 to 3 pounds in a day. This weight gain may indicate fluid retention, which is a critical sign of worsening heart failure. Weighing at the same time every day and using the same scale for consistency are good practices, but the crucial action is to promptly report significant weight gain, as stated in option D. Recording the weight in a journal or log can be helpful for tracking trends, but immediate reporting of weight gain is essential for timely intervention in heart failure management. Therefore, option D is the most appropriate instruction for this client.
3. A client has undergone insertion of a permanent pacemaker. When developing a discharge teaching plan, the nurse writes a goal of, 'The client will verbalize symptoms of pacemaker failure.' Which symptoms are most important to teach the client?
- A. Facial flushing.
- B. Fever.
- C. Pounding headache.
- D. Feelings of dizziness.
Correct answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is 'D: Feelings of dizziness.' Feelings of dizziness may occur as a result of a decreased heart rate, leading to decreased cardiac output, which can be an indication of pacemaker failure. Teaching the client to recognize symptoms of decreased cardiac output, like dizziness, is crucial for early detection of pacemaker malfunction. Choices A, B, and C are less specific to pacemaker failure and are not commonly associated with this condition. Facial flushing, fever, and pounding headache are not typical signs of pacemaker failure and are not directly related to cardiac output, making them less relevant for teaching the client about pacemaker failure.
4. The client with chronic renal failure is being educated on dietary restrictions. Which of the following foods should the client avoid?
- A. Bananas.
- B. Oranges.
- C. Rice.
- D. Apples.
Correct answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Bananas. Bananas are high in potassium, and clients with chronic renal failure are often advised to follow a low-potassium diet to prevent hyperkalemia. Oranges and apples are also high in potassium and should be avoided by clients with renal issues. Rice, on the other hand, is low in potassium and is generally considered safe for individuals with chronic renal failure to consume in moderation.
5. A client is hospitalized with heart failure (HF). Which intervention should the nurse implement to improve ventilation and reduce venous return?
- A. Perform passive range of motion exercises
- B. Place the client in high Fowler's position
- C. Administer oxygen via nasal cannula
- D. Increase the client's activity level
Correct answer: B
Rationale: In clients with heart failure, placing them in high Fowler's position is beneficial as it helps reduce venous return and improve ventilation. This position aids in decreasing the workload on the heart by promoting better lung expansion and oxygenation. Passive range of motion exercises (Choice A) are not directly related to improving ventilation or reducing venous return. Administering oxygen via nasal cannula (Choice C) may help with oxygenation but does not directly address reducing venous return. Increasing the client's activity level (Choice D) may worsen heart failure symptoms by increasing the workload on the heart.
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