HESI LPN
Pediatrics HESI 2023 Questions
Question 1 of 5
After the nurse has completed an oral examination of a healthy 2-year-old child, the parent asks when the child should first be taken to the dentist. When is the most appropriate time in the child's life for the nurse to suggest?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The most appropriate time for a child to first visit the dentist is within the next few months after turning two years old. This visit allows the dentist to assess the child's oral health, provide guidance on proper oral hygiene practices, and establish a positive relationship with dental care. Choice A (Before starting school) is not as specific and timely as the recommended age of 2 years. Choice C (When the first deciduous teeth are lost) is not ideal as preventive dental visits should start earlier to establish good oral health habits. Choice D (At the next dental check-up for a family member) may delay the child's first dental visit, missing the opportunity for early preventive care and guidance.
Question 2 of 5
An 8-year-old child with the diagnosis of meningitis is to have a lumbar puncture. What should the nurse explain is the purpose of this procedure?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The primary purpose of a lumbar puncture is to obtain a sample of cerebrospinal fluid for analysis. This sample helps in diagnosing conditions such as meningitis by evaluating the presence of pathogens or abnormalities in the cerebrospinal fluid. Measuring the pressure of cerebrospinal fluid (Choice A) is not the main objective of a lumbar puncture, although it can be done during the procedure. Relieving intracranial pressure (Choice C) is not the direct purpose of a lumbar puncture, as other interventions are typically used for this purpose. Assessing the presence of infection in the spinal fluid (Choice D) is related to the overall goal of obtaining a sample for analysis, making it a secondary outcome of the procedure.
Question 3 of 5
A nurse is assessing a 2-year-old child with suspected Down syndrome. What characteristic physical feature is the nurse likely to observe?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Epicanthal folds are a distinctive physical feature commonly observed in individuals with Down syndrome. These are horizontal skin folds that cover the inner corners of the eyes. Webbed neck (choice B) is not typically associated with Down syndrome but can be seen in conditions like Turner syndrome. Enlarged head (choice C) is not a characteristic feature of Down syndrome; however, individuals with hydrocephalus may present with this finding. Polydactyly (choice D) is the presence of extra fingers or toes, which is not a typical feature of Down syndrome.
Question 4 of 5
The parents of a 6-month-old infant are concerned about the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). What should the nurse recommend to reduce the risk?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct recommendation to reduce the risk of SIDS in infants is to place them on their back to sleep. This sleeping position helps prevent the occurrence of SIDS by maintaining an open airway and reducing the risk of suffocation. Using a pacifier during sleep has also shown some protective effect against SIDS, but it is not as effective as placing the infant on their back. Having the infant sleep on their side is not recommended as it can increase the risk of accidental suffocation. Keeping the infant's room cool does not directly reduce the risk of SIDS.
Question 5 of 5
A 4-year-old child is brought to the emergency department with a suspected fracture. What is the priority nursing action?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The priority nursing action when a child with a suspected fracture is brought to the emergency department is to immobilize the affected limb. Immobilization helps prevent further injury until a fracture is confirmed or ruled out. Applying ice or elevating the limb may be necessary interventions but should come after immobilizing the limb. Checking the child's neurovascular status is important but should follow immobilization to ensure no further harm is done during the assessment.