Pediatric HESI Test Bank

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Tachypnea, which refers to rapid breathing, is an early sign of congestive heart failure. In heart failure, the heart's inability to pump efficiently can lead to fluid accumulation in the lungs, causing the child to breathe faster to try to compensate for the decreased oxygen exchange. Bradycardia (slow heart rate) is not typically associated with congestive heart failure; instead, it may indicate a different issue. Inability to sweat is not a common early sign of congestive heart failure. Increased urinary output is not a typical early sign of congestive heart failure; instead, it may be a sign of other conditions like diabetes or kidney issues.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The priority nursing intervention for a child with cystic fibrosis is administering pancreatic enzymes. This is crucial for managing the condition as it helps in proper digestion of nutrients. Providing respiratory therapy and encouraging physical activity are important aspects of care for cystic fibrosis, but administering pancreatic enzymes takes precedence due to its direct impact on the child's ability to digest and absorb essential nutrients. Encouraging frequent handwashing is a good practice for infection control but is not the priority intervention in this scenario.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The primary goal of therapy during the acute phase of Kawasaki disease is to prevent coronary artery aneurysms, which are a serious complication of this condition. Coronary artery aneurysms can lead to long-term cardiovascular issues, making prevention crucial. While reducing fever and improving cardiac function are important aspects of managing Kawasaki disease, the primary focus in the acute phase is on preventing coronary artery aneurysms. Dehydration prevention is also essential but not the primary goal during the acute phase of this disease.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: 37% to 47%. The normal hematocrit range for a 12-month-old infant is between 37% to 47%, which reflects the expected blood volume and red blood cell levels for this age. Choice A (19% to 32%) and Choice B (29% to 41%) are too low and do not encompass the typical hematocrit range for a healthy 1-year-old. Choice D (42% to 69%) is too high and falls outside the usual hematocrit values for this age group.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is providing respiratory therapy. In bronchiolitis, the priority is to maintain airway patency through interventions such as suctioning, positioning, and oxygen therapy. While bronchodilators may be used in some cases, they are not the initial priority. Monitoring oxygen saturation is important but comes after ensuring airway patency. Encouraging fluid intake is essential for hydration but is not the priority over maintaining a patent airway.