Pediatric HESI Practice Questions

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Bone growth primarily occurs in the epiphysis, which is the area where growth plates are located. The epiphysis is responsible for longitudinal bone growth. The growth plate, also known as the physis, is the cartilaginous region in the metaphysis where bone growth occurs. The metaphysis is the area between the epiphysis and diaphysis where bone lengthening occurs, but it is not the primary site of bone growth. Therefore, choices A, C, and D are incorrect.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: A webbed neck is a classic physical characteristic seen in individuals with Turner syndrome, a genetic condition that results from a missing or partially missing X chromosome in females. This distinctive feature occurs due to excess skin on the neck and is a key clinical clue for healthcare providers. Microcephaly (choice B) refers to a small head size and is not typically associated with Turner syndrome. Gynecomastia (choice C) is the enlargement of breast tissue in males and is not a common finding in Turner syndrome. Cognitive delay (choice D) involves intellectual or developmental delays and is not a specific feature of Turner syndrome.

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: For a child with a disorder of the posterior pituitary gland, desmopressin acetate is a medication commonly used to manage the condition by replacing the antidiuretic hormone. Instructing the parents on how to administer desmopressin acetate correctly is essential for the child's care. Choice A is incorrect because growth hormone treatment is not typically used for posterior pituitary disorders. Choice C is incorrect as treatment for this condition usually continues beyond puberty. Choice D is incorrect as acute adrenal crisis is not directly related to a disorder of the posterior pituitary gland.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Circumoral cyanosis should alert the nurse to perform a further assessment because it may indicate inadequate oxygenation or circulation, potentially related to cardiac or respiratory issues. Flat occiput (choice A) is a common finding in infants and is not typically concerning. Small, low-set ears (choice B) are common in Down syndrome and not specifically indicative of an acute issue requiring immediate further assessment. Protruding furrowed tongue (choice D) is also commonly seen in infants with Down syndrome and typically does not warrant immediate further assessment unless associated with other concerning signs or symptoms.