HESI RN
Biology Test
1. Which of the following options is the term used to represent alternative versions of a gene?
- A. Alleles
- B. Binary fission
- C. Heterozygous
- D. Homozygous
Correct answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Alleles. Alleles are different forms of a gene that can exist at a specific locus on a chromosome. They represent variations in a gene's DNA sequence. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect. Binary fission is a form of asexual reproduction in single-celled organisms, while heterozygous and homozygous refer to different combinations of alleles in an individual, not the alternative versions of a gene.
2. After breastfeeding for 10 minutes at each breast, a new mother calls the nurse to the postpartum room to help change the newborn's diaper. As the mother begins the diaper change, the newborn spits up the breast milk. What action should the nurse implement first?
- A. Wipe away the spit-up and assist the mother with the diaper change.
- B. Sit the newborn upright and burp by rubbing or patting the upper back.
- C. Place the newborn in a position with the head lower than the feet.
- D. Turn the newborn to the side and use bulb suction for the mouth and nares.
Correct answer: B
Rationale: After a newborn spits up breast milk following feeding, the priority action for the nurse is to sit the newborn upright and burp by rubbing or patting the upper back. This position helps release trapped air and reduces the likelihood of further spit-up or aspiration. It is essential to address this first to prevent potential complications and ensure the newborn's comfort and safety.
3. A client with end-stage renal disease (ESRD) is receiving hemodialysis. Which laboratory value should the nurse monitor closely?
- A. Serum calcium level of 9 mg/dl
- B. Serum potassium level of 4.5 mEq/L
- C. Serum creatinine level of 2.0 mg/dl
- D. Serum sodium level of 138 mEq/L
Correct answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: Serum creatinine level of 2.0 mg/dl. In a client with ESRD receiving hemodialysis, serum creatinine should be closely monitored. Elevated creatinine levels indicate impaired kidney function. Monitoring serum calcium levels (Choice A), serum potassium levels (Choice B), and serum sodium levels (Choice D) is also important in clients with ESRD, but the most crucial indicator of kidney function in this case is serum creatinine.
4. What is another name for the breast?
- A. Sebaceous glands
- B. Racemose glands
- C. Mammary glands
- D. Axillary glands
Correct answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: Mammary glands. The mammary glands are the specific glands in the breast responsible for producing milk. Sebaceous glands (choice A) are oil-producing glands in the skin, racemose glands (choice B) are not a recognized term, and axillary glands (choice D) refer to glands found in the armpit region, not the breast.
5. What is the most important assessment for a nurse to conduct on a child diagnosed with intussusception?
- A. Monitor for signs of infection.
- B. Measure abdominal girth and monitor for pain.
- C. Check for bowel movement and changes in stool.
- D. Assess hydration status and monitor urine output.
Correct answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: 'Check for bowel movement and changes in stool.' Intussusception can cause obstruction in the bowel, leading to symptoms like abdominal pain, vomiting, and 'currant jelly' stools. Monitoring for changes in bowel movement, especially the passage of 'currant jelly' stools, is crucial for early detection of worsening conditions. Choices A, B, and D are important assessments in pediatric care but are not as specific or crucial as checking for changes in bowel movement in a child diagnosed with intussusception.