HESI RN
HESI Pediatric Practice Exam Questions
Question 1 of 5
The nurse provides information about the human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine to the mother of a 14-year-old adolescent who came to the clinic this morning complaining of menstrual cramping. Which explanation should the nurse provide to support administering the HPV vaccine to the adolescent at this visit?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D) Immunity must be established to prevent future HPV infection and the risk for cervical cancer. Administering the HPV vaccine to adolescents is crucial because it helps establish immunity against the virus, which can lead to cervical cancer later in life. By vaccinating early, the adolescent can build immunity before potential exposure to HPV through sexual activity. Option A is incorrect because while protective barriers can reduce the risk of HPV transmission, they are not foolproof and do not provide the same level of protection as vaccination. Option B is incorrect and perpetuates a negative stereotype about adolescents, as honesty about sexual activity should not be assumed. Option C is also incorrect because while the vaccine may not cover all strains of HPV, it still offers significant protection against the most common cancer-causing strains. In an educational context, it is important for nurses to emphasize the importance of HPV vaccination in preventing cervical cancer and other HPV-related diseases. Educating parents and adolescents about the benefits of vaccination can help increase vaccine uptake and ultimately reduce the burden of HPV-related illnesses in the population.
Question 2 of 5
A 6-year-old child with a history of asthma is brought to the clinic with complaints of wheezing and shortness of breath. The nurse notes that the child is using accessory muscles to breathe. What should the nurse do first?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: In this scenario, the correct action for the nurse to take first is to administer a bronchodilator (option A). When a child with a history of asthma presents with wheezing, shortness of breath, and the use of accessory muscles to breathe, it indicates an acute exacerbation of asthma. Administering a bronchodilator, such as albuterol, is crucial in managing bronchospasm and improving airway patency, which can rapidly relieve the child's respiratory distress. Obtaining a peak flow reading (option B) would be important to assess the severity of the asthma exacerbation, but it is not the first priority in this acute situation. Applying oxygen (option C) may be necessary later if the child's oxygen saturation is low, but addressing the underlying bronchospasm with a bronchodilator takes precedence. Performing a complete respiratory assessment (option D) is important but should come after initiating immediate treatment to address the child's distress. In the educational context, understanding the appropriate prioritization of interventions in the management of pediatric asthma exacerbations is crucial for nurses caring for children with asthma. Recognizing respiratory distress signs and symptoms and knowing the prompt administration of bronchodilators can prevent respiratory compromise and improve outcomes for pediatric patients with asthma.
Question 3 of 5
A 7-year-old child with cystic fibrosis is admitted to the hospital with a respiratory infection. The nurse is teaching the child's parents about the importance of chest physiotherapy (CPT). Which statement by the parents indicates they need further teaching?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: In this scenario, option C, "We should perform CPT right after the child eats," indicates a need for further teaching by the parents. The correct timing for performing chest physiotherapy (CPT) in a child with cystic fibrosis is before meals. Performing CPT after eating can lead to discomfort, vomiting, or aspiration due to the pressure applied during the procedure. Option A, "We should perform CPT before meals," is correct because performing CPT before meals helps in clearing the airways effectively without the risk of complications. Option B, "CPT will help loosen mucus in the lungs," is also correct as CPT is aimed at helping to mobilize and remove mucus from the lungs. Option D, "CPT is an important part of our child's treatment," is true as CPT plays a crucial role in managing cystic fibrosis by preventing lung infections and maintaining lung function. Educationally, it is important for parents of children with cystic fibrosis to understand the correct timing and technique for CPT to ensure its effectiveness and safety. Providing clear instructions and reinforcing the importance of proper CPT can help parents in managing their child's condition at home effectively.
Question 4 of 5
An adolescent female who is leaning forward with her hands on her knees to breathe tells the practical nurse that she has been using triamcinolone (Azmacort) inhalation aerosol before coming to the clinic. Which action should the PN implement?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: When a patient presents with breathing difficulties, the first action should be to assess vital signs and breath sounds to evaluate the severity of the condition. This assessment will provide crucial information to determine the appropriate course of action and treatment. Collecting a blood sample for a white blood cell count, giving a nebulizer treatment, or administering another dose of Azmacort would not be the initial priority in this situation.
Question 5 of 5
During a well-baby check of a 7-month-old infant, the practical nurse notes an absence of babbling. Which focused assessment should the PN implement?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The absence of babbling in a 7-month-old infant is a concerning auditory development milestone. Babbling is an early stage of language development which involves making various sounds. A lack of babbling could indicate a hearing impairment or other auditory issues. Therefore, the practical nurse should focus on assessing the infant's auditory function to determine if further evaluation or intervention is necessary.