HESI LPN
Community Health HESI Practice Questions
1. While performing an initial assessment on a newborn following a breech delivery, the nurse suspects hip dislocation. Which of the following is most suggestive of the abnormality?
- A. Flexion of lower extremities
- B. Negative Ortolani response
- C. Lengthened leg of affected side
- D. Irregular hip symmetry
Correct answer: D
Rationale: Irregular hip symmetry, such as asymmetry in the gluteal folds, is a common sign of hip dislocation in newborns. This finding indicates a potential abnormality in hip development and requires further evaluation and possible treatment. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect. Flexion of lower extremities is a normal newborn reflex, the Ortolani response is used to detect hip dysplasia rather than hip dislocation, and a lengthened leg of the affected side is not typically associated with hip dislocation in newborns.
2. A mother confides to the nurse that she is thinking of divorce. Which suggestion by the nurse would help minimize the effects on the child?
- A. Tell the child together using appropriate terms.
- B. Reassure the child that no one loves him more than his parents.
- C. Engage in special activities with the child to compensate for the divorce.
- D. Keep your feelings to yourself and maintain a positive facade with the child.
Correct answer: A
Rationale: In situations of divorce, it is crucial for both parents to inform the child together using age-appropriate language. This approach helps maintain consistency and clarity for the child, reducing confusion and anxiety. Choice B is incorrect because reassurance should not be solely focused on love but on explaining the situation appropriately. Choice C may inadvertently send the message that the divorce is the child's fault or requires compensation. Choice D is incorrect as children benefit from understanding and processing emotions in a healthy manner, rather than having them kept hidden.
3. A family has decided to withhold “extraordinary care” for a newborn with severe abnormalities. How should the nurse interpret this decision?
- A. The newborn has no rights.
- B. It is the same as euthanasia.
- C. It is illegal professional practice.
- D. The newborn is being allowed to die.
Correct answer: D
Rationale: Withholding extraordinary care in cases of severe abnormalities is a legal and ethical decision. It allows the newborn to die naturally without aggressive interventions. Choice A is incorrect because all individuals, including newborns, have rights. Choice B is incorrect because withholding extraordinary care is not equivalent to euthanasia, which involves actively ending a life. Choice C is incorrect because such decisions are legally and ethically permissible when made in consideration of the best interests of the newborn.
4. The healthcare provider changes a client’s medication prescription from IV to PO administration and doubles the dose. The nurse notes in the drug guide that the prescribed medication, when given orally, has a high first-pass effect and reduces bioavailability. What action should the nurse implement?
- A. Continue administering the medication via the IV route.
- B. Give half the prescribed oral dose until consulting the provider.
- C. Administer the medication orally as prescribed.
- D. Consult with the pharmacist regarding the prescription change.
Correct answer: D
Rationale: The correct action for the nurse to implement is to consult with the pharmacist regarding the change in prescription. With the high first-pass effect of the medication when given orally, it reduces its bioavailability, meaning a dosage adjustment may be necessary to achieve the desired therapeutic effect. Continuing to administer the medication via the IV route (choice A) is not appropriate as the prescription has been changed to oral administration. Giving half the prescribed oral dose until consulting the provider (choice B) is not recommended without proper guidance, which should come from consulting with the pharmacist. Simply administering the medication orally as prescribed (choice C) without addressing the potential issue of reduced bioavailability may lead to suboptimal treatment outcomes.
5. Which nursing diagnosis would be a priority for a client admitted with a CVA (cerebral vascular accident)?
- A. Risk for aspiration
- B. Impaired physical mobility
- C. Disturbed sensory perception
- D. Interrupted family processes
Correct answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is 'Risk for aspiration' as it is a priority concern in clients with a CVA due to potential swallowing difficulties. Aspiration poses immediate risks such as pneumonia, which can be life-threatening. Impaired physical mobility, while important, may not be as urgent as the risk for aspiration in this scenario. Disturbed sensory perception and interrupted family processes are not typically the most critical concerns in the acute phase of a CVA.