HESI RN
HESI RN Exit Exam Capstone Questions
Question 1 of 9
A client is receiving external beam radiation to the mediastinum for treatment of bronchial cancer. Which of the following should take priority in planning care?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Leukopenia, or a low white blood cell count, is a critical concern in clients undergoing radiation therapy due to increased risk of infection.
Question 2 of 9
The nurse is assessing a client with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) who has been experiencing increasing shortness of breath. Which finding requires immediate intervention?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: A pulse oximetry reading of 88% indicates hypoxemia, which requires immediate intervention to improve oxygenation. The use of accessory muscles and a barrel chest appearance are common in COPD but do not require urgent intervention.
Question 3 of 9
A client who had a vasectomy is in the post recovery unit at an outpatient clinic. Which of these points is most important to be reinforced by the nurse?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: It is important to use contraception until sperm is confirmed absent in the ejaculate.
Question 4 of 9
The nurse assesses a client one hour after starting a transfusion of packed red blood cells and determines that there are no indications of a transfusion reaction. What instruction should the nurse provide the UAP who is working with the nurse?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Monitoring vital signs throughout a transfusion is critical, as reactions can occur later in the process. The UAP should continue to check vital signs regularly to ensure that any delayed reaction is promptly detected.
Question 5 of 9
A client with diabetes insipidus is admitted due to a pituitary tumor. What complication should the nurse monitor for closely?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Hypokalemia is a common complication of diabetes insipidus due to excessive urination and the resultant electrolyte imbalance.
Question 6 of 9
The nurse observes an unlicensed assistive personnel (UAP) positioning a newly admitted client who has a seizure disorder. The client is supine and the UAP is placing soft pillows along the side rails. What action should the nurse implement?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The pillows along the side rails do not provide sufficient protection in the event of a seizure. The nurse should inform the UAP to remove the pillows and ensure proper padding of the side rails. This prevents injury, such as hitting the head or limbs during a seizure.
Question 7 of 9
A client is receiving a blood transfusion and reports feeling chilled and short of breath. What is the nurse's priority action?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Stopping the transfusion prevents further reactions, and notifying the healthcare provider ensures timely intervention.
Question 8 of 9
A client scheduled for a bronchoscopy in the morning is anxious and asking the nurse numerous questions about the procedure. Which intervention has the highest priority in preparing the client for the procedure?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Encouraging the client to write down questions allows the nurse to address concerns systematically, reducing anxiety. This approach is empowering and ensures that all concerns are covered before the procedure, reducing the risk of miscommunication or unaddressed fears.
Question 9 of 9
A client is suspected of having a stroke. What is the nurse's priority action?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: A neurological assessment is the priority when a stroke is suspected to determine the extent of brain injury and identify any immediate risks, such as impaired airway, speech deficits, or loss of motor function. Early recognition of these signs is essential for timely intervention and to guide further treatment like the administration of tPA, if appropriate.