HESI LPN
Medical Surgical HESI
1. Which statement correctly explains the etiology of Down syndrome?
- A. There is an extra chromosome on the 21st pair.
- B. There is a missing chromosome on the 21st pair.
- C. There are two pairs of the 21st chromosome.
- D. The 21st chromosome pair is missing.
Correct answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: 'There is an extra chromosome on the 21st pair.' Down syndrome is caused by the presence of an extra copy of chromosome 21, known as trisomy 21. This additional genetic material leads to the characteristics associated with Down syndrome. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because Down syndrome is not due to a missing chromosome or having two pairs of the 21st chromosome; it results from the presence of an extra chromosome on the 21st pair.
2. What is the function of the epiglottis during swallowing?
- A. Prevents food from entering the trachea
- B. Aids in food propulsion
- C. Enhances taste sensation
- D. Lubricates the esophagus
Correct answer: A
Rationale: The epiglottis is a flap of tissue that closes over the trachea during swallowing to prevent food and liquids from entering the airway. Choice A is correct because the primary function of the epiglottis is to act as a lid over the trachea, ensuring that food goes down the esophagus and not into the windpipe. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect as they do not describe the specific role of the epiglottis during swallowing.
3. The healthcare professional is planning a community health fair. Which of the following topics should be given the highest priority?
- A. blood pressure screening
- B. diabetes education
- C. smoking cessation
- D. nutrition and weight management
Correct answer: A
Rationale: In planning a community health fair, the highest priority should be given to blood pressure screening. This is because hypertension is a common and serious health issue that often goes undetected. Identifying individuals with high blood pressure early can lead to timely interventions and management, potentially preventing severe complications such as heart disease or stroke. While topics like diabetes education, smoking cessation, and nutrition are important, addressing blood pressure screening first aligns with the goal of early detection and prevention of a prevalent health concern.
4. A new mother asks the nurse if the newborn infant has an infection because the healthcare provider prescribed a blood test called the TORCH screen test. Which response should the nurse offer to the mother's inquiry?
- A. Rising titers identify the etiology of certain neuro-sensory birth defects
- B. The screen determines the risk for inherited anomalies in the newborn
- C. The test identifies the correct antibiotic to give the newborn for an infection
- D. Exposure to infections that can cross the placenta cause a positive antibody titer
Correct answer: D
Rationale: The TORCH screen test is used to detect infections that can affect the newborn by showing if there was exposure to these infections. Choice A is incorrect because the TORCH screen test is not specifically for identifying the etiology of neuro-sensory birth defects. Choice B is incorrect because the test does not determine the risk for inherited anomalies. Choice C is incorrect because the test is not used to identify the correct antibiotic for an infection, but rather to detect infections that may have affected the newborn.
5. A client with anxiety is prescribed alprazolam. What instruction should the nurse include in the client's teaching plan?
- A. Take this medication with food.
- B. Avoid activities that require alertness.
- C. Do not stop taking this medication abruptly.
- D. This medication may cause drowsiness.
Correct answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: 'Do not stop taking this medication abruptly.' Alprazolam should not be stopped suddenly as it can lead to withdrawal symptoms. It is important for clients to taper off the medication gradually under medical supervision to prevent adverse effects. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect. Choice A is irrelevant to alprazolam administration instructions. Choice B, 'Avoid activities that require alertness,' is not the priority teaching point for alprazolam. Choice D, 'This medication may cause drowsiness,' is a common side effect of alprazolam but not the most critical instruction to include in the teaching plan.