HESI LPN
Maternity HESI Practice Questions
1. The healthcare provider prescribes 10 units per liter of oxytocin via IV drip to augment a client's labor because she is experiencing a prolonged active phase. Which finding would cause the nurse to immediately discontinue the oxytocin?
- A. Contraction duration of 100 seconds.
- B. Four contractions in 10 minutes.
- C. Uterus is soft.
- D. Early deceleration of fetal heart rate.
Correct answer: A
Rationale: A contraction duration of 100 seconds is too long and can indicate uterine hyperstimulation, which can lead to fetal distress and other complications. This prolonged contraction duration suggests that the uterus is not relaxing adequately between contractions, potentially compromising fetal oxygenation. Choice B, 'Four contractions in 10 minutes,' is a sign of tachysystole, which is concerning but not as immediately critical as the prolonged contraction duration. Choice C, 'Uterus is soft,' is not a reason to discontinue oxytocin; in fact, it is a normal finding. Choice D, 'Early deceleration of fetal heart rate,' while indicating fetal distress, is not a direct result of the oxytocin and may require intervention but not immediate discontinuation of the medication.
2. A healthcare provider is assessing a newborn immediately following a vaginal birth. For which of the following findings should the provider intervene?
- A. Molding
- B. Vernix Caseosa
- C. Acrocyanosis
- D. Sternal retractions
Correct answer: D
Rationale: Sternal retractions in a newborn indicate respiratory distress and require immediate intervention. This finding suggests the newborn is having difficulty breathing and needs prompt attention to ensure adequate oxygenation. Molding, the overlapping of fetal skull bones during birth, is a normal and expected process that does not require intervention. Vernix Caseosa, the protective white substance on the skin, and Acrocyanosis, the bluish discoloration of extremities, are both common and benign findings in newborns that do not necessitate immediate action. Therefore, the healthcare provider should focus on addressing sternal retractions to manage the respiratory distress effectively.
3. The _____ is the inner layer of the embryo from which the lungs and digestive system develop.
- A. neural tube
- B. mesoderm
- C. endoderm
- D. umbilical cord
Correct answer: C
Rationale: The endoderm is the correct answer. It is the innermost layer of the embryo that gives rise to organs such as the lungs, digestive system, liver, and pancreas. The neural tube (Choice A) forms the brain and spinal cord, not the lungs or digestive system. Mesoderm (Choice B) develops into structures like muscles, bones, and circulatory system, not the lungs or digestive system. The umbilical cord (Choice D) serves as a connection between the embryo and the placenta, providing nutrients and oxygen, but it is not the layer from which lungs and digestive system develop.
4. A premature infant with respiratory distress syndrome (RDS) receives artificial surfactant. How does the nurse explain surfactant therapy to the parents?
- A. “Surfactant improves the ability of your baby’s lungs to exchange oxygen and carbon dioxide.”
- B. “The drug keeps your baby from requiring too much sedation.”
- C. “Surfactant is used to reduce episodes of periodic apnea.”
- D. “Your baby needs this medication to fight a possible respiratory tract infection.”
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Artificial surfactant can be administered as an adjunct to oxygen and ventilation therapy for premature infants with respiratory distress syndrome (RDS). It helps improve respiratory compliance by aiding in the exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide until the infant can produce enough surfactant naturally. The correct explanation to the parents would be that surfactant therapy enhances the baby’s lung function by facilitating the exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide. Choice B is incorrect because surfactant therapy does not affect sedation needs. Choice C is inaccurate as surfactant is not used to reduce episodes of periodic apnea. Choice D is incorrect as surfactant is not administered to fight respiratory tract infections; it specifically targets improving lung function in RDS.
5. A client who is pregnant and follows a vegan diet asks a nurse for guidance on foods high in calcium. Which of the following foods has the highest amount of calcium?
- A. ½ cup cubed avocado
- B. 1 large banana
- C. 1 medium potato
- D. 1 cup cooked broccoli
Correct answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D: 1 cup of cooked broccoli. Broccoli is an excellent source of calcium, making it a suitable choice for a vegan diet. Avocado (Choice A), banana (Choice B), and potato (Choice C) are not significant sources of calcium compared to broccoli. Avocado and banana are primarily sources of other nutrients like healthy fats and potassium, respectively. Potato is a good source of vitamin C and potassium but not calcium. Therefore, for a pregnant client following a vegan diet and seeking calcium-rich foods, cooked broccoli is the most appropriate choice.
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