HESI LPN
CAT Exam Practice Test
1. While changing a client’s chest tube dressing, the nurse notes a crackling sensation when gentle pressure is applied to the skin at the insertion site. What is the best action for the nurse to take?
- A. Apply a pressure dressing around the chest tube insertion site
- B. Assess the client for allergies to topical cleaning agents
- C. Measure the area of swelling and crackling
- D. Administer an oral antihistamine per PRN protocol
Correct answer: A
Rationale: A crackling sensation indicates subcutaneous emphysema, caused by air trapped under the skin. Applying a pressure dressing around the chest tube insertion site can help manage the issue by preventing further air leakage into the tissues. Choice B is incorrect because the crackling sensation is not related to allergies. Choice C is incorrect as measuring the area does not address the underlying cause. Choice D is incorrect as administering an oral antihistamine is not indicated for subcutaneous emphysema.
2. The urinary drainage of a client with continuous bladder irrigation is becoming increasingly red. Which intervention should the nurse implement?
- A. Increase the irrigation rate
- B. Lower the head of the bed
- C. Milk the catheter tubing
- D. Evaluate for fluid overload
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Increasing the irrigation rate can help clear any blood clots and reduce the redness in the urinary drainage. This intervention aims to improve the flushing of the bladder and potentially resolve the issue. Lowering the head of the bed would not directly address the red urinary drainage. Milking the catheter tubing is not recommended as it can cause trauma to the catheter or bladder, leading to further complications. While evaluating for fluid overload is an important nursing consideration, it does not directly address the immediate concern of redness in the urinary drainage, which requires a focused intervention to clear any blockages or clots in the system.
3. A client with endometrial carcinoma is receiving brachytherapy and has radioactive Cesium loaded in a vaginal applicator. What action should the nurse implement?
- A. Wear a dosimeter film badge when in the client’s room
- B. Spend 30 minutes at the bedside when providing direct care
- C. Change the linens every day after assisting with a bed bath
- D. Use gloves to remove the applicator if it is dislodged in the bed
Correct answer: A
Rationale: The correct action for the nurse to implement when caring for a client with a radioactive Cesium-loaded vaginal applicator during brachytherapy is to wear a dosimeter film badge when in the client’s room. Wearing a dosimeter badge is essential to monitor radiation exposure and ensure the safety of healthcare providers. Choice B is incorrect as the duration is not specified and unnecessary. Choice C is incorrect as changing linens daily does not directly relate to radiation safety. Choice D is incorrect as using gloves to remove the applicator if dislodged is important but not the primary action to monitor radiation exposure.
4. What is the primary focus of postoperative nursing care for the client with colon trauma?
- A. Monitoring for elevated coagulation studies
- B. Observation for and prevention of fistulas
- C. Monitoring for signs of hyponatremia
- D. Observation for and prevention of infection
Correct answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D: Observation for and prevention of infection. Postoperative nursing care for a client with colon trauma primarily focuses on preventing infections. Clients with colon trauma are at high risk for infections due to the disruption of the intestinal barrier. Monitoring for signs of infection, maintaining proper wound care, administering antibiotics as prescribed, and implementing strict aseptic techniques are essential in preventing postoperative infections. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect because elevated coagulation studies, fistulas, and hyponatremia are not the primary concerns in the immediate postoperative period for a client with colon trauma.
5. Which intervention should the nurse include in the plan of care for a patient with tetanus?
- A. Open window shades to provide natural light
- B. Encourage coughing and deep breathing
- C. Minimize the amount of stimuli in the room
- D. Reposition from side to side every hour
Correct answer: C
Rationale: The correct intervention for a patient with tetanus is to minimize the amount of stimuli in the room. Tetanus can lead to muscle spasms and heightened sensitivity to stimuli, making it essential to reduce environmental triggers for the patient's comfort and safety. Opening window shades for natural light (Choice A) may exacerbate sensitivity to light and worsen symptoms. Encouraging coughing and deep breathing (Choice B) is not directly related to managing tetanus symptoms. While repositioning the patient every hour (Choice D) is important for preventing pressure ulcers, it is not the priority when managing tetanus, which requires a quiet, low-stimulus environment to minimize muscle spasms and discomfort.
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