HESI RN
Pediatric HESI Questions
Question 1 of 9
What information should the nurse provide to parents of a 3-year-old boy with Duchenne muscular dystrophy who inquire about the disease and future children?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Duchenne muscular dystrophy is an X-linked recessive disorder caused by mutations in the DMD gene on the X chromosome. This disorder primarily affects males because they have one X chromosome, inherited from their mothers, who may be carriers of the mutated gene. Females have two X chromosomes, providing a protective effect as the normal gene on one X chromosome can compensate for the mutated gene on the other. Therefore, the nurse should explain to the parents that Duchenne muscular dystrophy is an inherited X-linked recessive disorder, which is why their son has the disease and why there is a risk of passing it on to future sons.
Question 2 of 9
Following a motor vehicle collision, a 3-year old girl has a spica cast applied. Which toy is best for the nurse for this 3 year old child?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: A set of cloth and hand puppets is safe and developmentally appropriate for a 3-year-old with a spica cast.
Question 3 of 9
A 16-year-old adolescent with cystic fibrosis is admitted to the hospital with a respiratory infection. The nurse is teaching the adolescent about the importance of airway clearance techniques. Which statement by the adolescent indicates a need for further teaching?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B. Airway clearance exercises are essential for individuals with cystic fibrosis to prevent mucus buildup in their lungs. It is crucial to perform these exercises regularly, even when feeling well, to maintain lung health and prevent complications. Therefore, the statement indicating that the exercises are not needed if feeling okay shows a misunderstanding and requires further teaching.
Question 4 of 9
A toddler with a chronic illness that requires frequent hospitalization is likely to experience which psychosocial developmental challenge?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Toddlers with chronic illnesses requiring frequent hospitalization may experience interference with the development of autonomy. This is because the need for constant medical care can restrict their independence and ability to explore and make choices, which are essential aspects of achieving autonomy according to Erikson's stages of psychosocial development.
Question 5 of 9
When should a mother introduce solid foods to her infant? The mother of a 4-month-old baby girl asks the nurse when she should introduce solid foods to her infant. The mother states, 'My mother says I should put rice cereal in the baby's bottle now.' The nurse should instruct the mother to introduce solid foods when her child exhibits which behavior?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is 'B: Opens mouth when food comes her way.' Readiness for solid foods is indicated by the infant showing interest in food and being able to sit up with support. This behavior demonstrates the infant's readiness to start introducing solid foods in their diet.
Question 6 of 9
Which developmental behavior should the practical nurse identify as normal for a 6-month-old infant?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: By 6 months of age, infants typically achieve the milestone of rolling over completely. This ability demonstrates increasing strength and coordination. Creeping on all fours, pulling self to a standing position, and assuming a sitting position independently are skills that are usually developed at later stages of infancy.
Question 7 of 9
A male adolescent who is newly diagnosed with a seizure disorder receives a prescription for an anticonvulsant. Which statement indicates the client is at risk for non-compliance with life-long medication management?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The statement 'My friends will think I am a freak if I take these pills' indicates concerns about peer perception, which can lead to non-compliance in adolescents. Peer pressure and fear of social stigma can significantly impact medication adherence in this age group, making option B the most concerning response regarding the client's compliance with life-long medication management.
Question 8 of 9
The nurse is assessing a 4-month-old infant who has just received routine immunizations. The mother reports that the baby has been fussy and has a low-grade fever since the immunizations. What is the best response by the nurse?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Fussiness and low-grade fever are common side effects of immunizations in infants and usually resolve on their own. It is important for the nurse to educate the mother about these expected reactions to help ease her concerns. Immediate evaluation or giving aspirin to an infant for fever is not necessary or safe, as aspirin can be harmful to infants.
Question 9 of 9
According to Erikson's theory, what behavioral pattern should be displayed by a child who has not developed a sense of competence?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Erikson's theory of psychosocial development outlines that the failure to establish a sense of competence during the industry vs. inferiority stage results in feelings of inferiority. This stage occurs during middle childhood where children strive to master skills and tasks. If they are unable to meet challenges successfully, they may start feeling inferior to their peers and may lack confidence in their abilities.