Pediatric HESI Practice Questions

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The priority nursing intervention for a 3-year-old child with Kawasaki disease is monitoring for coronary artery aneurysms. Kawasaki disease can lead to the development of coronary artery aneurysms, which are one of the most serious complications of the disease. Early detection and monitoring of coronary artery changes are essential for prompt intervention and prevention of adverse outcomes. Administering IV immunoglobulin is an important treatment for Kawasaki disease, but monitoring for coronary artery aneurysms takes precedence as it directly impacts the child's long-term prognosis. Encouraging fluid intake and providing nutritional support are important aspects of care but are not the priority when compared to monitoring for potential life-threatening complications.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The primary function of the endocrine system is hormonal secretion. This system is responsible for producing and releasing hormones that regulate various bodily functions such as growth, metabolism, and mood. Choice A, regulation of water balance, is more related to the functions of the renal system rather than the endocrine system. Choice C, cellular metabolism, is a general cellular process that involves various systems, not specific to the endocrine system. Choice D, growth stimulation, though hormones can influence growth, it is not the primary function of the endocrine system. Therefore, the correct answer is B.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: When a child with nephrotic syndrome is undergoing treatment with corticosteroids, it is crucial to monitor for signs of infection. Corticosteroids can suppress the immune system, increasing the child's susceptibility to infections. Monitoring for signs of infection allows for early detection and prompt intervention. While monitoring blood pressure, hyperglycemia, and hypertension are important considerations in certain conditions and treatments, they are not the primary concern when a child with nephrotic syndrome is on corticosteroid therapy.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is administering factor VIII. Hemophilia is a genetic disorder characterized by a deficiency in clotting factors, such as factor VIII. Administering factor VIII is crucial in managing bleeding episodes in hemophiliac patients. Pain medication (Choice A) may be necessary but is not the priority in this situation. Monitoring for signs of infection (Choice B) is important for overall care but is not the priority during a bleeding episode. Ensuring a safe environment (Choice D) is also important but not the priority intervention when managing a bleeding episode in a child with hemophilia.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Circumoral cyanosis should alert the nurse to perform further assessment in a 2-month-old infant with Down syndrome. This finding may indicate cardiac or respiratory issues, such as inadequate oxygenation. Small, low-set ears and a protruding furrowed tongue are common physical characteristics associated with Down syndrome and may not necessarily warrant immediate further assessment. A flat occiput is a normal variation in infant anatomy and is not typically a cause for immediate concern in this context.