HESI RN
RN HESI Exit Exam Capstone
1. A client with pneumonia is receiving intravenous (IV) antibiotics. Which assessment finding indicates that the client's condition is improving?
- A. Client's respiratory rate decreases from 24 to 20 breaths per minute
- B. White blood cell count decreases to normal range
- C. Client reports increased energy levels
- D. Cough becomes productive with green sputum
Correct answer: B
Rationale: A decrease in white blood cell count indicates that the infection is responding to treatment and the client's condition is improving. Monitoring the white blood cell count is a more objective indicator of the body's response to the antibiotics. Choices A, C, and D may also be positive signs, but they are less specific and may vary among individuals. Respiratory rate alone may not be sufficient to indicate improvement, as other factors can influence it. Energy levels and cough characteristics are subjective and may not always correlate with the effectiveness of antibiotic treatment.
2. A 60-year-old female client with a positive family history of ovarian cancer has developed an abdominal mass and is being evaluated for possible ovarian cancer. Her Papanicolau (Pap) smear results are negative. What information should the nurse include in the client’s teaching plan?
- A. Pap smear is sufficient to detect ovarian cancer
- B. Surgery is unnecessary based on negative Pap smear
- C. Further evaluation involving surgery may be needed
- D. No further tests are needed
Correct answer: C
Rationale: A negative Pap smear does not rule out ovarian cancer, which often requires more comprehensive evaluation, including imaging studies or surgery. The client should be informed that the Pap smear primarily detects cervical cancer, not ovarian cancer. Therefore, further evaluation involving imaging studies or surgery may be necessary to determine the presence of ovarian cancer. Choice A is incorrect because a Pap smear is not sufficient to detect ovarian cancer. Choice B is incorrect because surgery may be necessary for further evaluation if ovarian cancer is suspected. Choice D is incorrect because further tests are needed to confirm or rule out ovarian cancer.
3. A client with hyperthyroidism is admitted to the postoperative unit after a subtotal thyroidectomy. Which of the client's serum laboratory values requires intervention by the nurse?
- A. Blood glucose 90 mg/dL
- B. Sodium 138 mEq/L
- C. Total calcium 5.0 mg/dL
- D. Potassium 4.2 mEq/L
Correct answer: C
Rationale: A total calcium level of 5.0 mg/dL is critically low and indicates possible hypocalcemia, a common complication after thyroid surgery. This condition can lead to tetany and requires immediate intervention. Blood glucose within normal range, sodium, and potassium levels are not indicative of an immediate postoperative complication like hypocalcemia in this case.
4. A client with hyperthyroidism is admitted for total thyroidectomy. What is the nurse's priority post-operative intervention?
- A. Monitor the client's calcium levels for hypocalcemia.
- B. Monitor for signs of respiratory distress.
- C. Administer oral calcium supplements.
- D. Elevate the head of the bed to 45 degrees.
Correct answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is to monitor the client's calcium levels for hypocalcemia. After a total thyroidectomy, there is a risk of accidental removal or damage to the parathyroid glands, leading to hypocalcemia. This complication can manifest within the first 24-48 hours post-op. Monitoring calcium levels is crucial to prevent serious complications such as tetany or seizures. While monitoring for respiratory distress is important, it is not the priority in this case. Administering oral calcium supplements should only be done based on the healthcare provider's prescription and after assessing the client's calcium levels. Elevating the head of the bed to 45 degrees is beneficial for respiratory function but is not the priority intervention for a client at risk for hypocalcemia post-thyroidectomy.
5. A client is admitted with a suspected bowel obstruction. What assessment finding should the nurse report immediately?
- A. Absent bowel sounds in all quadrants.
- B. Distended abdomen with a firm, rigid feel.
- C. Frequent episodes of nausea and vomiting.
- D. Hyperactive bowel sounds and abdominal cramping.
Correct answer: B
Rationale: A distended abdomen with a firm, rigid feel is a concerning sign that suggests a complication such as bowel perforation, which requires immediate intervention. Absent bowel sounds can be expected in bowel obstructions but are not as urgent as a rigid abdomen. Frequent episodes of nausea and vomiting are common with bowel obstructions but do not indicate an immediate life-threatening complication. Hyperactive bowel sounds and abdominal cramping are more indicative of bowel obstruction rather than a complication requiring immediate attention.
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