Pediatric HESI Practice Questions

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: In a child with a congenital cardiac malformation causing right-to-left shunting of blood, the nurse should expect an elevated hematocrit. This occurs because the body compensates for decreased oxygenation by producing more red blood cells. Proteinuria (Choice A) is not a typical clinical finding related to right-to-left shunting. Peripheral edema (Choice B) is more commonly associated with conditions causing volume overload, such as left-sided heart failure. Absence of pedal pulses (Choice D) is not directly related to right-to-left shunting but may be seen in conditions affecting peripheral circulation.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Epiphysis. Bone growth primarily occurs in the epiphysis, which is the area where growth plates are located. The epiphysis is responsible for longitudinal bone growth. Choice A, 'Growth plate,' is incorrect as it does not specify the exact area where bone growth primarily occurs. Choice C, 'Physis,' refers to the same structure as a growth plate, but the term 'epiphysis' is more specific to bone growth. Choice D, 'Metaphysis,' is incorrect as it is the area of the bone where the epiphysis meets the diaphysis, not the primary site of bone growth.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: When teaching an adolescent with type 1 diabetes about dietary management, it is crucial to ensure a ready source of glucose is available. In cases of hypoglycemia, having a quick source of glucose can help raise blood sugar levels rapidly. Option A is not the most critical aspect of dietary management for an adolescent with type 1 diabetes. While it is generally recommended to eat meals at home for better control over food choices, the availability of a ready glucose source takes precedence. Option B, weighing foods on a gram scale, may not be practical for every meal and could be burdensome. Option D, cooking specific foods for the adolescent, is not necessary as the focus should be on the overall dietary plan rather than individualized meals.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: After a prolonged hospitalization, a toddler may exhibit excessively demanding behavior as they readjust to being home. This behavior can stem from the child feeling insecure or anxious about the changes in their environment. The child may seek extra attention and reassurance during this transition period. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because hostility, shallowness in attachment, and withdrawal without emotional ties are less likely behaviors to be displayed by a toddler readjusting to home after a hospital stay.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: In a congenital cardiac malformation causing right-to-left shunting, the nurse should expect an elevated hematocrit. This occurs because the body compensates for decreased oxygenation by producing more red blood cells. Proteinuria (Choice A) is not typically associated with congenital cardiac malformations causing right-to-left shunting. Peripheral edema (Choice B) is more commonly seen in conditions causing left-sided heart failure. Absence of pedal pulses (Choice D) is not a typical finding in congenital cardiac malformations causing right-to-left shunting.