HESI RN
HESI Pediatrics Practice Exam
1. What response should the practical nurse (PN) provide when a school-age child asks to talk with a dying sister?
- A. Talk loudly to ensure the dying person hears and recognizes others' voices.
- B. Touch can provide a tactile presence if the dying person does not respond to words.
- C. Sitting close offers the dying person the sensation of others' presence.
- D. Although the dying person may not respond, they can still hear what is said.
Correct answer: D
Rationale: The correct response is D because it is believed that hearing is the last sense to go. Even if the dying person does not respond, speaking to them can still provide comfort. Choice A is incorrect because talking loudly is not necessary and can be distressing. Choice B is incorrect as it focuses on touch rather than the sense of hearing. Choice C is incorrect because sitting close may not necessarily help the dying person hear better.
2. A 13-year-old client with type 1 diabetes is admitted to the hospital with a blood glucose level of 450 mg/dL. The client is lethargic and has fruity-smelling breath. What is the nurse’s priority action?
- A. Administer insulin as prescribed
- B. Start an IV infusion of normal saline
- C. Check the client’s urine for ketones
- D. Monitor the client’s vital signs
Correct answer: B
Rationale: The correct priority action for the nurse is to start an IV infusion of normal saline. The client's presentation with lethargy, fruity-smelling breath, and high blood glucose level indicates diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA). IV fluids are essential to correct dehydration and help stabilize the client's condition. Checking for ketones in the urine is important, but fluid replacement takes precedence to address the immediate risk of dehydration and electrolyte imbalances. Administering insulin is also a crucial intervention for DKA, but fluid resuscitation should first be initiated.
3. What is the most important information for the PN to reinforce with the parents when caring for a child diagnosed with acute rheumatic fever?
- A. Complete the full course of prescribed antibiotics.
- B. Ensure the child gets plenty of physical exercise.
- C. Keep the child on a low-sodium diet.
- D. Administer prescribed pain medications as needed.
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Completing the full course of antibiotics is crucial in the management of acute rheumatic fever as it helps prevent recurrence and complications. Antibiotics are essential in eradicating the underlying infection that triggers the autoimmune response leading to rheumatic fever. Reinforcing the importance of completing the prescribed antibiotic regimen is vital to ensure the child's recovery and prevent further health issues. Choices B, C, and D are not as critical as completing the antibiotic treatment. While physical exercise, a low-sodium diet, and pain management are important aspects of overall health, they are not the primary focus when managing acute rheumatic fever.
4. During a routine physical exam, a male adolescent client tells the nurse, 'sometimes, my mother gets angry because I want to be with my own friends.' What is the best initial response by the nurse?
- A. Offer reassurance that his mother's concern is normal
- B. Determine if his friends are engaged in unsafe behaviors
- C. Ask about the client's response to his mother's anger
- D. Offer to discuss his concerns with his mother
Correct answer: C
Rationale: When a client expresses concerns about family dynamics, it is important to explore their feelings and reactions to the situation. By asking about the client's response to his mother's anger, the nurse can gain insight into the client's emotions, thoughts, and coping mechanisms. Understanding these aspects is crucial in providing appropriate support and guidance. Option A is incorrect because it focuses solely on reassuring the client about his mother's concern without addressing the client's feelings. Option B assumes negative behaviors without evidence. Option D jumps to discussing concerns with the mother without understanding the client's perspective first.
5. A 16-year-old male client who has been treated in the past for a seizure disorder is admitted to the hospital. Immediately after admission, he begins to have a grand mal seizure. Which action should the nurse take?
- A. Obtain assistance in holding him to prevent injury.
- B. Observe him carefully.
- C. Call a CODE.
- D. Place a padded tongue blade between the teeth.
Correct answer: B
Rationale: During a grand mal seizure, the priority action for the nurse is to ensure the safety of the client. Observing the client carefully allows the nurse to monitor the seizure activity, the client's breathing, and any signs of distress without interfering with the seizure process. Restraining the client or placing objects in the mouth can lead to injury and should be avoided. Calling a CODE is not appropriate for a seizure as it is a normal response to the client's condition.
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