Pediatric HESI 2023

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: In Addison's disease, adrenal insufficiency leads to decreased aldosterone production. This results in impaired sodium retention and potassium excretion, leading to hyperkalemia. Therefore, the correct answer is hyperkalemia (choice B). Hypernatremia (choice A) is less likely because of the loss of sodium in Addison's disease. Hyperglycemia (choice C) and hypercalcemia (choice D) are not typically associated with Addison's disease and are less likely to be present in this condition.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The priority nursing intervention for a 7-year-old child with type 1 diabetes mellitus is to monitor blood glucose levels. This is crucial for managing and adjusting insulin therapy effectively. Administering insulin as prescribed is important, but monitoring blood glucose levels takes precedence as it guides insulin administration. Teaching the child how to self-administer insulin and encouraging regular exercise are also important aspects of diabetes management, but they are not the priority in this situation.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Choice B is the correct answer as white, non-Hispanic children are more likely to be in very good or excellent health compared to African American and Hispanic children. This is an important disparity in health outcomes that may be influenced by various social determinants. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because they do not accurately describe how certain families are affected by common barriers to health care. Choice A discusses the declining percentage of children in low-income families, which is not directly related to barriers to health care. Choice C talks about overweight children and the increase in African American females but does not address access to health care. Choice D discusses the impact of health care plans on working families but does not specifically address barriers to health care access for families.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: For a child with nephrotic syndrome, it is important to avoid foods high in salt. This instruction helps manage symptoms and prevent complications associated with the condition. High salt intake can lead to fluid retention and worsen edema, which are common issues in nephrotic syndrome. Encouraging a low-sodium diet is crucial to maintaining fluid balance and reducing strain on the kidneys. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because a high-protein diet can further stress the kidneys, while a low-protein diet may not be necessary unless specifically advised by the healthcare provider. Encouraging a low-sodium diet is more appropriate for managing nephrotic syndrome.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Peripheral edema is often the last sign of heart failure in infants and children as it indicates significant fluid retention and circulatory compromise. Tachypnea (Choice A) and tachycardia (Choice B) are early signs of heart failure due to the body's compensatory mechanisms. Periorbital edema (Choice D) can occur in heart failure but is not typically the last sign; it is more commonly associated with renal or hepatic dysfunction.