Pediatric HESI Practice Questions

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Administering bronchodilators is a crucial nursing intervention for a child with asthma because it helps to open the airways and ease breathing during an asthma attack. Bronchodilators are medications that work by relaxing the muscles around the airways, making it easier for the child to breathe. Encouraging physical activity may exacerbate asthma symptoms in some cases due to increased respiratory effort and exposure to triggers. Monitoring oxygen saturation is important but does not address the immediate need of opening the airways during an asthma episode. Providing nutritional support is essential for overall health but is not the primary intervention needed in managing an acute asthma exacerbation.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Invasive burn cellulitis. Invasive burn cellulitis presents with the burn developing a dark brown, black, or purplish color with discharge and a foul odor. Burn wound cellulitis (choice A) typically involves redness, warmth, and swelling around the burn site. Burn impetigo (choice C) is a superficial infection characterized by honey-colored crusting. Staphylococcal scalded skin syndrome (choice D) is a condition caused by exotoxins from Staphylococcus aureus, leading to widespread skin peeling.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct priority nursing intervention for a child diagnosed with diabetes insipidus is to monitor fluid balance. Diabetes insipidus is a condition characterized by excessive urination and thirst, which can lead to dehydration. Monitoring fluid balance is essential to prevent dehydration and ensure the child's hydration status remains stable. Administering insulin (Choice A) is not indicated in diabetes insipidus because it is a disorder of the posterior pituitary gland, not the pancreas. Administering diuretics (Choice C) would exacerbate fluid loss in a child already at risk for dehydration. Monitoring vital signs (Choice D) is important but not the priority when compared to maintaining fluid balance in a child with diabetes insipidus.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Administering factor VIII in the morning on scheduled days ensures that there is a consistent level of the plasma component throughout the day, especially when the child is active. This timing helps to maintain adequate levels of factor VIII to prevent bleeding episodes. Choice A is incorrect because administering factor VIII only when a bleed is suspected would not provide the consistent prophylactic coverage needed for children with hemophilia. Choice C is incorrect as bedtime administration may not be practical for ensuring the plasma component is available during the child's active hours. Choice D is incorrect because administering factor VIII on a regular schedule, rather than at specific times of the day, may not optimize its effectiveness in preventing bleeding episodes.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct action would be to notify the doctor immediately. Unrelenting pain despite medication can indicate compartment syndrome, which is a medical emergency requiring immediate attention. Applying ice, elevating the arm, or giving additional pain medication may not address the underlying cause of the unrelenting pain, which could be a sign of a serious complication like compartment syndrome. Prompt medical evaluation is crucial in this situation to prevent potential complications.