HESI LPN
HESI PN Exit Exam 2023
1. Which of the following is a priority for the nurse to include in the teaching of a client who was recently prescribed alprazolam (Xanax) as an oral medication?
- A. Monitor heart rate before taking the medication
- B. Monitor temperature daily
- C. Avoid unprotected exposure to sunlight
- D. Avoid alcohol
Correct answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D: 'Avoid alcohol.' Alprazolam (Xanax) can have central nervous system depressant effects, which are exacerbated by alcohol. It is crucial to avoid alcohol while taking this medication to prevent severe sedation and respiratory depression. Monitoring heart rate (choice A) is not directly related to alprazolam administration. Monitoring temperature daily (choice B) is not a priority teaching point for a client prescribed alprazolam. Avoiding unprotected exposure to sunlight (choice C) is not specifically linked to the use of alprazolam.
2. While assessing a child admitted for an asthma attack, a nurse in the emergency department observes large welts and scars on the child's back. What additional information must be included in the nurse’s assessment?
- A. History of an injury
- B. Signs of child abuse
- C. Presence of food allergies
- D. Recent recovery from chickenpox
Correct answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Signs of child abuse. When a nurse observes large welts and scars on a child, it raises concern for possible child abuse. It is crucial for the nurse to assess further for signs of abuse, document findings, and report appropriately to protect the child. Choice A, history of an injury, is not specific to potential abuse and may not provide insight into the current situation. Choice C, presence of food allergies, is not directly related to the observed welts and scars. Choice D, recent recovery from chickenpox, is also unrelated to the signs of abuse and does not impact the immediate assessment of the child's safety.
3. A client with a history of congestive heart failure is prescribed digoxin (Lanoxin). Which assessment is most important for the nurse to obtain before administering this medication?
- A. Blood pressure
- B. Heart rate
- C. Respiratory rate
- D. Oxygen saturation
Correct answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Heart rate. Before administering digoxin to a client with a history of congestive heart failure, the nurse must assess the client's heart rate. Digoxin can cause bradycardia, so monitoring the heart rate is crucial to prevent potential complications. Assessing blood pressure, respiratory rate, and oxygen saturation are important assessments but are not as directly influenced by digoxin as heart rate is in this scenario. Blood pressure can be affected by various factors, including dehydration or other medications. Respiratory rate and oxygen saturation are more related to respiratory function and gas exchange, which are not the primary concerns when administering digoxin to a client with heart failure.
4. A client with a history of heart failure presents to the clinic with a 2-day history of weight gain, swelling in the legs, and shortness of breath. Which of the following is the most appropriate initial nursing action?
- A. Perform a physical assessment
- B. Review the client's medication list
- C. Instruct the client to elevate the legs
- D. Obtain a detailed dietary history
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Performing a physical assessment is the most appropriate initial nursing action in this scenario. A thorough physical assessment helps evaluate the client's current condition, severity of symptoms, and identify any immediate concerns. This assessment can provide crucial information to guide further interventions and treatment. Reviewing the client's medication list (choice B) is important but may not address the immediate need for assessing the client's current status. Instructing the client to elevate the legs (choice C) may be beneficial but should come after a thorough assessment. Obtaining a detailed dietary history (choice D) is relevant for heart failure management but is not the most urgent initial action when the client presents with acute symptoms like weight gain, leg swelling, and shortness of breath.
5. An infant who had cardiac surgery for a congenital defect is to be discharged. What should the nurse emphasize to the parents regarding administering the prescribed antibiotic?
- A. Give the antibiotic between feedings.
- B. Ensure that the antibiotic is administered as prescribed.
- C. Shake the bottle thoroughly before giving the antibiotic.
- D. Keep the antibiotic in the refrigerator after the bottle has been opened.
Correct answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: 'Ensure that the antibiotic is administered as prescribed.' It is crucial for the parents to follow the prescribed antibiotic regimen to prevent infections and promote proper healing following cardiac surgery. Option A is incorrect because the timing of antibiotic administration may vary depending on the specific medication and instructions. Option C is not necessary and could potentially affect the antibiotic's effectiveness. Option D is not relevant to the administration of the antibiotic and does not ensure proper usage.