Pediatric HESI Practice Questions

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Copying a square. At 3 years old, children should be able to copy a square as part of their fine motor skill development. The inability to perform this task may indicate a developmental delay in fine motor skills. Choice B, hopping on one foot, typically develops around 4-5 years of age, so it is not a reliable indicator of a delay at 3. Choice C, catching a ball reliably, involves coordination skills that develop later in childhood, making it less relevant for a 3-year-old assessment. Choice D, using a spoon effectively, is more related to self-care and feeding skills rather than fine motor development, so it is not the best indicator of a developmental delay in this context.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Infants receive passive immunity through antibodies from the mother during pregnancy and breastfeeding, which protect them initially.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is monitoring fluid and electrolyte balance. Gastroenteritis is characterized by inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract, leading to fluid loss. Maintaining fluid and electrolyte balance is essential in managing gastroenteritis to prevent dehydration and electrolyte imbalances. Encouraging regular exercise (Choice B) is not a priority in the acute phase of gastroenteritis when the focus is on rehydration and symptom management. Administering antipyretics (Choice C) may be considered for fever management but is not the priority over monitoring fluid and electrolyte balance. Administering antibiotics (Choice D) is not routinely indicated for viral gastroenteritis, which is a common cause of the condition in children.

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: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: "This is a lifelong problem, and it is recommended that dietary restrictions must be continued." Phenylketonuria (PKU) is a metabolic disorder where the body cannot process phenylalanine properly. The diet for PKU must be continued lifelong to prevent cognitive and developmental issues, as phenylalanine buildup can cause irreversible damage. Choice A is incorrect because the nurse should provide information about the lifelong nature of the dietary restrictions for PKU. Choice B is incorrect as it suggests reintroducing protein-containing foods, which is not recommended for individuals with PKU. Choice C is incorrect as it underestimates the duration of the necessary dietary restrictions for PKU.