HESI LPN
Pediatric HESI Test Bank Questions
Question 1 of 9
When explaining exercise in type 1 diabetes to the parents of a newly diagnosed child, what should the nurse emphasize?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: In children with type 1 diabetes, it is essential to emphasize the need for extra snacks before exercise to prevent hypoglycemia. Choice A is incorrect because exercise typically lowers blood glucose levels, not increases them. Choice B is inappropriate as exercise is beneficial but needs to be managed carefully. Choice D is inaccurate as extra insulin during exercise can lead to hypoglycemia.
Question 2 of 9
A child sitting on a chair in a playroom starts to have a tonic-clonic seizure with a clenched jaw. What is the nurse's best initial action?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The best initial action during a tonic-clonic seizure is to place the child on the floor. This action helps prevent injury by providing a safe environment and allows for better management of the seizure episode. Attempting to open the jaw is not recommended as it may cause harm to the child or the nurse. Calling out for assistance is important but should not delay ensuring the child's safety first. Placing a pillow under the child's head is not advisable during a seizure as it can pose a risk of suffocation or choking.
Question 3 of 9
How should a nurse prepare a 15-month-old child diagnosed with hydrocephalus for a computed tomography (CT) scan?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Preparing a toddler for a CT scan involves providing a simple explanation of the procedure to help reduce anxiety and fear. Shaving the child's head is unnecessary for a CT scan and may increase distress. Starting an IV infusion or administering sedatives may not be appropriate or necessary for all pediatric patients undergoing CT scans, especially if the child can cooperate without these interventions.
Question 4 of 9
The healthcare provider is admitting a child with a Wilms tumor. Which is the initial assessment finding associated with this tumor?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Abdominal swelling is a classic presentation and often the first noticeable sign of a Wilms tumor. This occurs due to the tumor mass in the kidney, leading to abdominal distension. Weight gain (Choice B) is less likely as a presenting symptom compared to abdominal swelling. Hypotension (Choice C) is not typically associated with a Wilms tumor unless complications like bleeding or shock occur. Increased urinary output (Choice D) is not a typical finding for Wilms tumor; instead, patients may present with hematuria or urinary symptoms.
Question 5 of 9
The parents of a child who is scheduled for open-heart surgery ask why their child must be subjected to chest tubes after surgery. What should the nurse consider before responding in language the parents will understand?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Chest tubes are necessary after open-heart surgery to facilitate the drainage of air and fluid from the chest cavity. These tubes help prevent complications such as pneumothorax (accumulation of air in the pleural space) or cardiac tamponade (build-up of fluid in the pericardial sac), which can be serious postoperative issues. Options A, C, and D are incorrect because chest tubes are primarily used for draining purposes and not for increasing tidal volumes, maintaining positive intrapleural pressure, or regulating pressure on the pericardium and chest wall.
Question 6 of 9
A 2-year-old child is admitted to the hospital with a diagnosis of Kawasaki disease. What is the primary goal of therapy during the acute phase?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The primary goal of therapy during the acute phase of Kawasaki disease is to prevent coronary artery aneurysms, which are a serious complication of this condition. Coronary artery aneurysms can lead to long-term cardiovascular issues, making prevention crucial. While reducing fever and improving cardiac function are important aspects of managing Kawasaki disease, the primary focus in the acute phase is on preventing coronary artery aneurysms. Dehydration prevention is also essential but not the primary goal during the acute phase of this disease.
Question 7 of 9
An infant who has had diarrhea for 3 days is admitted in a lethargic state and is breathing rapidly. The parent states that the baby has been ingesting formula, although not as much as usual, and cannot understand the sudden change. What explanation should the nurse give the parent?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D. Infants have a higher extracellular fluid requirement per unit of body weight, making them more susceptible to dehydration and electrolyte imbalances during illnesses such as diarrhea. Choice A is incorrect as cellular metabolism instability does not directly relate to the infant's condition described. Choice B is inaccurate as the proportion of water in the body is not the primary issue causing the infant's symptoms. Choice C is incorrect as renal function being immature does not explain the sudden change in the infant's health status; it is more related to fluid balance and dehydration.
Question 8 of 9
A 5-year-old child is diagnosed with acute glomerulonephritis. What is a key assessment the nurse should perform?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: In a child diagnosed with acute glomerulonephritis, monitoring urine output is a crucial assessment. Acute glomerulonephritis affects the kidneys, leading to decreased urine output due to impaired kidney function. Monitoring urine output helps assess renal perfusion, fluid status, and kidney function. This assessment is essential in determining the effectiveness of treatment and identifying complications. Monitoring blood glucose levels (Choice A) is not directly related to acute glomerulonephritis. Respiratory rate (Choice B) may be important in other conditions but is not a key assessment for acute glomerulonephritis. Monitoring for signs of infection (Choice D) is important in general, but it is not specific to the primary issue of impaired kidney function in acute glomerulonephritis.
Question 9 of 9
When evaluating the laboratory report of a 1-year-old infant's hematocrit, a healthcare provider compares it with the expected hematocrit range for this age group. What is the hematocrit of a healthy 12-month-old infant?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct hematocrit range for a healthy 12-month-old infant is between 37% to 47%. At this age, this range reflects the normal blood volume and red blood cell (RBC) levels in infants. Choice A (19% to 32%) is too low for a healthy hematocrit level in a 12-month-old. Choice B (29% to 41%) is also below the typical range for a 12-month-old. Choice D (42% to 69%) includes an upper limit that is higher than expected for a healthy infant, making it an incorrect option.