HESI RN
HESI Maternity Test Bank Questions
Question 1 of 5
A new mother is having trouble breastfeeding her newborn son. He is making frantic rooting motions and will not grasp the nipple. What intervention would be most helpful to this mother?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: In this scenario, the most helpful intervention for the mother experiencing difficulty breastfeeding her newborn son is option A: Ask the mother to stop feeding, comfort the infant, and then assist the mother to help the baby latch on. This approach is beneficial because it addresses the immediate needs of both the mother and the baby. By stopping the feeding session, the mother can calm the baby and reduce stress for both of them, creating a more conducive environment for successful breastfeeding. Comforting the infant helps establish a sense of security and trust, making it easier for the baby to latch on when the feeding resumes. Assisting the mother in helping the baby latch on provides practical support and guidance, which can improve the breastfeeding experience for both mother and baby. Options B, C, and D are not the most appropriate interventions in this situation. Using a nipple shield (option B) may not address the underlying issue causing the baby's difficulty latching on and could potentially lead to further challenges with breastfeeding. Trying a different breastfeeding position (option C) could be helpful in some cases, but in this particular scenario where the baby is showing signs of distress and inability to latch on, immediate intervention and support are necessary. Having another person help the mother with breastfeeding (option D) may not address the root cause of the issue and could potentially create unnecessary dependency on external assistance. Educationally, understanding the importance of addressing breastfeeding challenges promptly and providing holistic support to both the mother and the baby is crucial in promoting successful breastfeeding outcomes. By prioritizing the well-being of both the mother and the newborn, healthcare providers can help establish a positive breastfeeding experience that supports the overall health and bonding of the mother-infant dyad.
Question 2 of 5
A child with ADHD needs help with homework. What should the nurse encourage the parents to do?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Encouraging parents to help the child with homework is beneficial as it fosters independence and academic skills. This involvement allows the child to receive the necessary support and guidance while still actively participating in their academic responsibilities, promoting a sense of accomplishment and skill development.
Question 3 of 5
What action should be implemented when preparing to measure the fundal height of a pregnant client?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: When preparing to measure the fundal height of a pregnant client, it is crucial to have the client empty her bladder before the procedure. This is the correct action because a full bladder can impede accurate fundal height measurement by pushing the uterus upwards, leading to an incorrect assessment. Option B is incorrect because lying on the left side is not necessary for fundal height measurement. Option C, performing Leopold's maneuvers first, is also incorrect as these maneuvers are used to determine fetal position and presentation, not for fundal height measurement. Option D, giving the client cold juice to drink, is incorrect as it is not relevant to the fundal height measurement process. In an educational context, students must understand the importance of preparing the client appropriately for fundal height measurement to ensure accurate assessment of fetal growth and development. Emphasizing the significance of a standardized procedure, including bladder emptying, can help students develop the necessary skills for effective maternity care.
Question 4 of 5
A client at 32-weeks gestation comes to the prenatal clinic with complaints of pedal edema, dyspnea, fatigue, and a moist cough. Which question is most important for the LPN/LVN to ask this client?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer to this question is D) Do you have a history of rheumatic fever? This is the most important question for the LPN/LVN to ask the client because the symptoms described - pedal edema, dyspnea, fatigue, and a moist cough - are indicative of cardiac issues, specifically heart failure. Rheumatic fever is a known risk factor for the development of rheumatic heart disease, which can lead to heart failure during pregnancy. Option A) Which symptom did you experience first? While understanding the progression of symptoms can provide some insight, it is not as crucial as identifying a potential underlying cardiac condition. Option B) Are you eating large amounts of salty foods? While dietary habits can contribute to edema and other symptoms, in this case, the symptoms presented are more likely related to a cardiac issue rather than dietary choices. Option C) Have you visited a foreign country recently? This question is not relevant to the symptoms described and does not address the immediate concern of cardiac involvement. In an educational context, it is essential for healthcare providers to be able to recognize and assess symptoms that may indicate serious conditions during pregnancy. Understanding the significance of a client's medical history and risk factors is crucial in providing appropriate care and interventions to ensure the well-being of both the mother and the baby.
Question 5 of 5
A client at 32-weeks gestation is diagnosed with preeclampsia. Which assessment finding is most indicative of an impending convulsion?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: In this scenario, the correct answer is option A: 3+ deep tendon reflexes and hyperreflexia. These findings are indicative of an impending convulsion in a client with preeclampsia. Preeclampsia is characterized by hypertension and proteinuria after 20 weeks of gestation. As the condition progresses, it can lead to severe complications like eclampsia, which involves seizures or convulsions. Option B, periorbital edema, flashing lights, and aura, are signs of visual disturbances associated with preeclampsia but do not directly indicate an impending convulsion. Option C, epigastric pain in the third trimester, is a common symptom of preeclampsia but is not specifically linked to an impending convulsion. Option D, recent decreased urinary output, is a sign of kidney involvement in preeclampsia but does not directly predict an impending convulsion. Educationally, understanding the signs and symptoms of preeclampsia is crucial for nurses and healthcare providers caring for pregnant clients. Recognizing the warning signs of severe complications like impending convulsions allows for prompt intervention and management to ensure the safety of both the mother and the baby. Regular assessment and monitoring of clients with preeclampsia are essential to prevent adverse outcomes.