HESI RN
HESI RN Exit Exam 2024 Capstone Questions
Question 1 of 5
The nurse is caring for a client who has COPD and chest pain related to a recent fall. What nursing intervention requires the greatest caution when caring for a client with COPD?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: Applying oxygen therapy at a high flow rate. In clients with COPD, high levels of supplemental oxygen can suppress the hypoxic drive to breathe, leading to carbon dioxide retention and respiratory depression. Oxygen therapy must be administered cautiously to prevent worsening respiratory status. Administering narcotics for pain relief (
Choice
A) can be necessary but should be done judiciously. Encouraging fluid intake (
Choice
B) and assisting with deep breathing exercises (
Choice
D) are generally beneficial interventions for clients with COPD and should not require the same level of caution as high-flow oxygen therapy.
Question 2 of 5
A client is scheduled for a spiral CT scan with contrast to evaluate for pulmonary embolism. Which information in the client's history requires follow-up by the nurse?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: An allergy to shellfish often indicates an allergy to iodine, which is used in contrast dyes for CT scans. This poses a significant risk of an allergic reaction during the procedure. The nurse must ensure appropriate precautions or alternative imaging are considered.
Choices B, C, and D are not directly contraindicated for a CT scan with contrast. Smoking history, metformin use, and controlled hypertension do not typically impact the safety or feasibility of the procedure.
Question 3 of 5
A client is admitted with a large pleural effusion. Which procedure should the nurse prepare the client for?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Corrected
Rationale: The correct procedure for a client with a large pleural effusion is thoracentesis. Thoracentesis is a diagnostic and therapeutic procedure used to remove fluid from the pleural space, which can help relieve symptoms associated with pleural effusion.
Choice B (Endotracheal intubation) is incorrect as it is a procedure to secure the airway by placing a tube into the trachea.
Choice C (Chest tube insertion) is incorrect as it is typically done to drain air or fluid from the pleural space over a longer period.
Choice D (Bronchoscopy) is incorrect as it is a procedure used to visualize the airways and diagnose lung conditions, not specifically for pleural effusion removal.
Question 4 of 5
A child is admitted with bacterial meningitis. What assessment finding should the nurse monitor most closely?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale:
Correct
Answer: B. Signs of increased intracranial pressure, such as changes in consciousness or pupil reactivity, are critical to monitor in children with bacterial meningitis to prevent complications. Monitoring the client's skin for rash and lesions (
Choice
A) is not the priority in bacterial meningitis. While monitoring blood pressure (
Choice
C) is important, signs of increased intracranial pressure take precedence. Monitoring for changes in heart rate and rhythm (
Choice
D) is less specific to the condition and may not indicate worsening neurological status.
Question 5 of 5
During an initial assessment, a healthcare provider notes that a client has elevated blood pressure. Which of the following findings is considered a major risk factor for coronary artery disease?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Elevated blood pressure is a significant risk factor for coronary artery disease because it increases the strain on the arteries, leading to potential damage and a higher risk of developing coronary artery disease. Elevated HDL cholesterol (
Choice
A) is actually considered beneficial as it helps reduce the risk of heart disease. Low LDL cholesterol (
Choice
B) is also beneficial as high levels of LDL are associated with an increased risk of coronary artery disease. Low triglyceride levels (
Choice
D) are not typically considered a major risk factor for coronary artery disease.