Pediatric Practice Exam HESI

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Hypospadias is a congenital condition where the urethral opening is located along the ventral surface of the penis, not the dorsal surface (Choice C) or absent (Choice A). This leads to the characteristic appearance of a ventrally displaced urethral meatus. The penis may appear normal in size but with the urethral opening positioned abnormally (Choice D), rather than being shorter than usual (Choice B). Therefore, the correct expectation for a newborn with hypospadias is that the urethral opening is along the ventral surface of the penis, making Choice D the correct answer.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Nausea and vomiting are more common in children following head trauma due to their higher risk of increased intracranial pressure. Children have less skull compliance and higher brain water content, making them more susceptible to developing symptoms like nausea and vomiting. Altered mental status (choice B) can occur in both children and adults but is not more common in children. Tachycardia and diaphoresis (choice C) are nonspecific and can occur in both age groups. Changes in pupillary reaction (choice D) are not typically more common in children following head trauma compared to adults.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Severe joint pain is a classic symptom of rheumatic fever, resulting from inflammation of the joints. Rheumatic fever primarily affects the joints, heart, skin, and the central nervous system. Jaundice (Choice A) is not typically associated with rheumatic fever. Peeling skin on the hands and feet (Choice B) is more characteristic of conditions like Kawasaki disease. While high fever (Choice C) can be present in rheumatic fever, it is not as specific or characteristic as severe joint pain.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: When caring for a child with cerebral palsy, skeletal traction is the least likely treatment intervention. Cerebral palsy primarily involves motor function impairments, and skeletal traction is not a typical intervention for this condition. Physical therapy is commonly used to improve movement and function, orthotics help with posture and mobility, and occupational therapy addresses activities of daily living. These interventions are more aligned with the needs of a child with cerebral palsy compared to skeletal traction, making it the least likely treatment option.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C because using echolalia (repeating words or phrases) is not typical for a 2-year-old and may indicate the need for further evaluation. Choices A, B, and D are within the expected developmental skills for a 2-year-old. While a 2-year-old may not be able to stand on one foot for an extended period, it is not a concerning developmental milestone at this age. Building a tower of 7 blocks and coloring outside the lines of a picture are both age-appropriate activities that demonstrate fine motor skills and creativity, respectively. However, echolalia at this age could be a sign of an underlying communication or developmental issue that warrants further assessment and monitoring.