HESI RN
Biology Practice Test
1. Which of the following is a lipid that is a membrane component and a precursor to significant hormones?
- A. Nucleic acids
- B. Proteins
- C. Carbohydrates
- D. Steroids
Correct answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D, Steroids. Steroids are a type of lipid that function as essential components of cell membranes and serve as precursors for significant hormones like estrogen and testosterone. Nucleic acids (choice A) are not lipids but are molecules like DNA and RNA that store genetic information. Proteins (choice B) and carbohydrates (choice C) are biomolecules but are not lipids and do not serve as precursors for hormones or membrane components.
2. The nurse instructs the unlicensed nursing personnel (UAP) on how to provide oral hygiene for clients who cannot perform this task for themselves. Which of the following techniques should the nurse tell the UAP to incorporate into the client's daily care?
- A. Assess the oral cavity each time mouth care is given and record observations.
- B. Use a soft toothbrush to brush the client's teeth after each meal.
- C. Swab the client's tongue, gums, and lips with a soft foam applicator every 2 hours.
- D. Rinse the client's mouth with mouthwash several times a day.
Correct answer: B
Rationale: The correct technique to incorporate into the client's daily care for oral hygiene is to use a soft toothbrush to brush the client's teeth after each meal. This helps in maintaining oral hygiene for clients who cannot perform this task themselves. Choice A is incorrect because assessing the oral cavity each time mouth care is given is important but not the technique to incorporate into daily care. Choice C is incorrect as swabbing the tongue, gums, and lips every 2 hours may not be necessary for daily care. Choice D is incorrect as rinsing the client's mouth with mouthwash several times a day may not be suitable for all clients and is not a standard recommendation for daily oral care.
3. An older female client with rheumatoid arthritis is complaining of severe joint pain that is caused by the weight of the linen on her legs. What action should the nurse implement first?
- A. Apply flannel pajamas to provide warmth.
- B. Administer a PRN dose of ibuprofen.
- C. Perform range of motion exercises in a warm tub.
- D. Drape the sheets over the footboard of the bed.
Correct answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D. The nurse should first address the immediate comfort concern of the client, which is the weight of the linen on her legs causing severe joint pain. By draping the sheets over the footboard of the bed rather than tucking them under the mattress, the nurse can alleviate the pressure that the client perceives as the source of her pain. This action is a simple and effective way to provide relief and should be the initial step taken by the nurse. Choices A, B, and C do not directly address the client's immediate discomfort caused by the weight of the linen on her legs, making them less appropriate initial actions.
4. After receiving treatment for anorexia, a student asks the school nurse for permission to work in the school cafeteria as part of the school’s work-study program. What action should the nurse take?
- A. Recommend assignment to the receptionist's office.
- B. Suggest that the student work in the athletic department.
- C. Refer the student to a psychiatrist for further discussion.
- D. Determine the parents' opinion of the work assignment.
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Clients with anorexia are often fixated on food and exercise, which can exacerbate their condition. By recommending assignment to the receptionist's office, the nurse provides an environment that minimizes exposure to food-related triggers. Working in the cafeteria may intensify the student's preoccupation with food, making it an unsuitable choice. Referring the student to a psychiatrist without exploring less triggering work options first may not be necessary. Determining the parents' opinion is important, but in this context, the focus should be on selecting a work environment that supports the student's recovery.
5. During the care of a client with a salmonella infection, what is the primary nursing intervention to limit transmission?
- A. Wash hands thoroughly before and after client contact
- B. Wear gloves when in contact with body secretions
- C. Double glove when in contact with feces or vomitus
- D. Wear gloves when disposing of contaminated linens
Correct answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is to wash hands thoroughly before and after client contact when caring for a client with a salmonella infection. This approach is crucial in preventing the transmission of the infection. While wearing gloves when in contact with body secretions (Choice B), double gloving when in contact with feces or vomitus (Choice C), and wearing gloves when disposing of contaminated linens (Choice D) are important infection control measures, the primary intervention to limit the spread of salmonella is proper hand hygiene.