HESI 799 RN Exit Exam

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Electrocardiogram (ECG). An ECG should be performed first to assess for cardiac ischemia in a client presenting with shortness of breath and chest pain. This test helps in evaluating the electrical activity of the heart and can identify signs of myocardial infarction or other cardiac issues. Choice B, Chest X-ray, may be ordered after the ECG to assess for pulmonary conditions like pneumonia or effusions. Choice C, Pulmonary function tests (PFTs), are used to evaluate lung function and are not the primary diagnostic tests for a client with symptoms of cardiac origin. Choice D, Arterial blood gases (ABGs), may provide information about oxygenation but are not the initial test indicated for a client with suspected cardiac issues.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is an echocardiogram. This diagnostic test is crucial in assessing ventricular function and identifying the cause of shortness of breath in a client with heart failure. It provides valuable information about the heart's structure, function, and blood flow. While a chest X-ray may show signs of heart failure, it does not directly assess cardiac function like an echocardiogram does. Arterial blood gases (ABGs) are useful to evaluate oxygenation and acid-base balance but do not provide information specific to heart function. An electrocardiogram (ECG) assesses the heart's electrical activity and rhythm, which is important but may not provide the detailed structural information needed in this scenario.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is an Electrocardiogram (ECG). When a client with a history of atrial fibrillation presents with new-onset confusion, an ECG is crucial to assess for cardiac ischemia, which could be a potential cause of the confusion. A chest X-ray (Choice B) is not typically the first-line diagnostic test for evaluating confusion in a client with atrial fibrillation. Arterial blood gases (ABGs) (Choice C) are more useful in assessing oxygenation and acid-base balance rather than the cause of confusion in this scenario. While an echocardiogram (Choice D) provides valuable information about cardiac structure and function, it is usually not the initial diagnostic test needed in the evaluation of acute confusion in a client with atrial fibrillation.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is to instruct the mother to take the teen to the emergency room. The symptoms described, including recurrent vomiting and becoming combative after taking vitamins, calcium, magnesium, and aspirin, indicate a potential overdose or a serious condition. Therefore, immediate medical evaluation in the emergency room is crucial. Advising to withhold all medications by mouth (Choice A) may delay necessary treatment. Recommending to withhold food and fluids (Choice C) is not appropriate in this urgent situation. Suggesting deep breathing (Choice D) does not address the seriousness of the symptoms and the need for immediate medical attention.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Cold sensitivity. Cold sensitivity is a common symptom of hypothyroidism, a condition that affects the thyroid gland's ability to produce enough hormones. As a postmenopausal woman presents with cold sensitivity, it may indicate an underlying thyroid issue. Hot flashes (choice B) are more commonly associated with menopause than thyroid dysfunction. While weight gain (choice C) and dry skin (choice D) can also be symptoms of thyroid disorders, cold sensitivity is more specific and indicative of hypothyroidism, requiring prompt evaluation by a healthcare provider.