HESI RN
HESI Pediatric Practice Exam
1. A 4-year-old child is brought to the clinic with complaints of ear pain and fever. The practical nurse suspects otitis media. Which symptom supports this suspicion?
- A. Clear nasal discharge.
- B. Dry, hacking cough.
- C. Tugging at the ear.
- D. Sore throat.
Correct answer: C
Rationale: Tugging at the ear is a common symptom in children with otitis media. It often indicates discomfort or pain in the ear, suggesting inflammation or infection in the middle ear. This behavior is frequently observed in young children who are unable to express their discomfort verbally, making it a significant clinical indicator for otitis media in this age group. Clear nasal discharge (Choice A) is more indicative of a cold or allergies, while a dry, hacking cough (Choice B) is not typically associated with otitis media. Although a sore throat (Choice D) can sometimes accompany ear infections, tugging at the ear is a more specific and reliable symptom in this case.
2. Following admission for cardiac catheterization, the nurse is providing discharge teaching to the parents of a 2-year-old toddler with tetralogy of Fallot. What instruction should the nurse give the parents if their child becomes pale, cool, and lethargic?
- A. Encourage oral electrolyte solution intake
- B. Assist the child to a recumbent position
- C. Contact their healthcare provider immediately
- D. Provide a quiet time by holding or rocking the toddler
Correct answer: C
Rationale: If a child with tetralogy of Fallot becomes pale, cool, and lethargic, these symptoms may indicate a hypoxic episode or worsening condition. It is crucial to contact the healthcare provider immediately for further evaluation and management to ensure the child's safety and well-being. Option A is incorrect because electrolyte solution intake is not the immediate action needed for these symptoms. Option B is incorrect as positioning alone may not address the underlying issue. Option D is incorrect as providing a quiet time is not appropriate if the child is experiencing concerning symptoms that require prompt medical attention.
3. A mother brings her 8-month-old baby boy to the clinic because he has been vomiting and having diarrhea for the last 3 days. Which assessment is most important for the nurse to make?
- A. Assess the infant's abdomen for tenderness
- B. Determine if the infant has been exposed to a virus
- C. Measure the infant’s pulse
- D. Evaluate the infant’s cry
Correct answer: C
Rationale: The most crucial assessment in this scenario is to measure the infant's pulse. Pulse measurement is essential to evaluate the severity of dehydration, which can be a significant concern in a baby experiencing vomiting and diarrhea for several days. Assessing the abdomen for tenderness may provide information on potential causes of symptoms but is not as urgent as monitoring hydration status. Determining exposure to a virus is important for infection control but does not directly address the immediate issue of dehydration. Evaluating the infant's cry, although a form of communication, does not provide critical information regarding the baby's physiological status in this situation.
4. What is the most suitable toy for a 3-year-old boy receiving weekly chemotherapy treatment?
- A. Bouncy ball
- B. Coloring book with crayons
- C. Duck that squeaks
- D. Remote-controlled car
Correct answer: B
Rationale: A coloring book with crayons is the best choice as it is safe, engaging, and can provide a distraction during treatment without posing any safety risks. Coloring activities can help keep the child occupied, promote creativity, and offer a calming and therapeutic outlet during chemotherapy sessions.
5. A child with pertussis is receiving azithromycin (Zithromax Injection) IV. Which intervention is most important for the nurse to include in the child’s plan of care?
- A. Obtain vital signs to monitor for fluid overload
- B. Change IV site dressing every 3 days and as needed
- C. Monitor for signs of facial swelling or urticaria
- D. Assess for abdominal pain and vomiting
Correct answer: C
Rationale: Monitoring for signs of an allergic reaction, such as facial swelling or urticaria, is crucial when administering antibiotics like azithromycin. It is important to watch for these signs to promptly identify and manage any potential adverse reactions during the course of treatment.
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