HESI RN
HESI Medical Surgical Specialty Exam
1. A patient asks the nurse about taking calcium supplements to avoid hypocalcemia. The nurse will suggest that the patient follow which instruction?
- A. Take a calcium and vitamin D combination supplement.
- B. Take calcium along with phosphorus to improve absorption.
- C. Take calcium with antacids to reduce stomach upset.
- D. Use aspirin instead of acetaminophen when taking calcium.
Correct answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is to take a calcium and vitamin D combination supplement. Vitamin D enhances the absorption of calcium in the body, making it an essential component for calcium utilization. Choice B is incorrect because calcium and phosphorus have an inverse relationship, where an increased level of one mineral decreases the level of the other, so taking them together may not be beneficial. Choice C is incorrect because antacids often contain magnesium, which can promote calcium loss instead of absorption. Choice D is incorrect because aspirin can alter vitamin D levels and interfere with calcium absorption, so it is not recommended when taking calcium supplements.
2. An emergency department nurse assesses a client with kidney trauma and notes that the client’s abdomen is tender and distended, and blood is visible at the urinary meatus. Which prescription should the nurse consult the provider about before implementation?
- A. Assessing vital signs every 15 minutes
- B. Inserting an indwelling urinary catheter
- C. Administering intravenous fluids at 125 mL/hr
- D. Typing and crossmatching for blood products
Correct answer: B
Rationale: In a client with kidney trauma and blood visible at the urinary meatus, inserting a urinary catheter via the urethra should be avoided until further diagnostic studies are completed to prevent potential urethral tears. The nurse should consult the provider about the need for a catheter; if necessary, a suprapubic catheter can be used instead. Assessing vital signs every 15 minutes is important for continuous monitoring of the client's condition. Administering intravenous fluids at 125 mL/hr is crucial to maintain hydration and support kidney function. Typing and crossmatching for blood products is necessary in case the client requires blood transfusion due to potential blood loss from the trauma.
3. What is an expected outcome when a client is receiving an IV administration of furosemide?
- A. Increased blood pressure.
- B. Increased urine output.
- C. Decreased pain.
- D. Decreased premature ventricular contractions.
Correct answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Increased urine output. Furosemide is a loop diuretic that works by inhibiting the reabsorption of sodium and chloride in the ascending loop of Henle in the kidneys, leading to increased urine production. This diuretic effect helps to reduce fluid volume in the body, making it an expected outcome when a client is receiving furosemide. Choice A, increased blood pressure, is incorrect because furosemide typically causes a decrease in blood pressure due to its diuretic effect. Choice C, decreased pain, and choice D, decreased premature ventricular contractions, are unrelated to the pharmacological action of furosemide.
4. Assessment of the diabetic client for common complications should include examination of the:
- A. Abdomen.
- B. Lymph glands.
- C. Pharynx.
- D. Eyes.
Correct answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D: Eyes. Diabetic clients are at high risk of developing complications such as diabetic retinopathy, making regular eye examinations crucial. Assessing the eyes helps in early detection and management of diabetic eye diseases. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect because while they may be relevant in certain assessments, they are not commonly associated with complications specific to diabetes. Examination of the abdomen, lymph glands, and pharynx are not typically part of routine assessments for common complications in diabetic clients.
5. An older female client has normal saline infusing at 45 mL/hour. She complains of pain at the insertion site of the IV catheter. There is no redness or edema around the IV site. Which action should the nurse take?
- A. Determine which IV medications have recently been administered.
- B. Explain that without redness or edema, there is no need to re-start the IV.
- C. Consult with the healthcare provider about the best location to start a new IV.
- D. Convert the IV to a saline lock and continue to monitor the site.
Correct answer: D
Rationale: Converting the IV to a saline lock and continuing to monitor the site is the correct action in this scenario. When a client complains of pain at the IV insertion site without redness or edema, it may indicate phlebitis or irritation. Replacing the IV may not be necessary if there are no signs of infection or infiltration. Determining the IV medications administered or consulting with the healthcare provider to start a new IV are not immediate actions required for pain management at the insertion site. Therefore, the most appropriate intervention is to convert the IV to a saline lock and closely observe for any changes or complications.
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