HESI Fundamentals Test Bank

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Auscultating the abdomen before palpation is the correct action for the nurse to take in this scenario. This approach helps to assess bowel sounds accurately and prevents the alteration of bowel sounds that can occur due to palpation. By auscultating first, the nurse can gather important information about bowel function before proceeding with the palpation. Choice A is incorrect because deep palpation should be avoided initially, especially in a client reporting abdominal pain, as it may cause discomfort or potential harm. Choice C is incorrect as palpation should typically start away from the site of pain to prevent exacerbating discomfort. Choice D is incorrect because assessing bowel sounds with the bell of the stethoscope is not the initial step recommended when a client reports abdominal pain; auscultation should be performed with the diaphragm of the stethoscope first.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Performing hand hygiene is essential before any direct patient care procedure to prevent the spread of infection. Proper hand hygiene helps reduce the risk of introducing harmful microorganisms to the client, especially when dealing with a procedure like tracheostomy care. Identifying the client, preparing the sterile field, and donning sterile gloves are all important steps in tracheostomy care, but hand hygiene precedes them to maintain asepsis and ensure patient safety.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct action for the nurse to take is to remove the anti-embolic stockings at least once per shift. This is essential to assess the client's circulation and skin integrity. Option A is incorrect because the stockings should be applied without creases to ensure proper compression. Option B is incorrect as the stockings should be applied when the client's legs are elevated, not in a dependent position. Option D is incorrect as removing the stockings while the client is sitting in a reclining chair is not necessary and does not provide the appropriate assessment opportunity.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: An elevated white blood cell count (WBC 15,000/mm�) is a common indicator of infection as the body increases WBC production to fight off pathogens. In conditions like infections, inflammation, or stress, the WBC count can rise. The other options, hemoglobin, platelet count, and sodium levels, are not typically specific indicators of infection. Hemoglobin measures the oxygen-carrying capacity of red blood cells, platelet count assesses clotting ability, and sodium levels indicate electrolyte balance.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct response is C: "I understand that this is challenging; let's work together to ensure comfort." This response acknowledges the difficulty the partner is facing, shows empathy, and offers to collaborate in providing care. Choice A is incorrect because it does not directly address the partner's feelings of embarrassment or offer support. Choice B, while true, does not address the partner's emotional state and may come across as directive rather than supportive. Choice D is also incorrect as it focuses solely on the smell without addressing the partner's emotions or offering assistance in managing the situation with empathy.