hesi health assessment test bank 2023

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: Administer corticosteroids. In a client with chest pain and a history of myocardial infarction, the first priority is to address potential inflammation in the myocardium. Corticosteroids help reduce inflammation and stabilize the myocardium, which is crucial in preventing further damage post-myocardial infarction. Administering nitroglycerin (A) is important for vasodilation, but it is typically used after corticosteroids. Morphine (B) and analgesics (C) may provide pain relief but do not address the underlying inflammation. Administering corticosteroids is the most appropriate first step to manage myocardial inflammation and protect the heart tissue.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: Atelectasis and pneumonia. Following abdominal surgery, patients are at risk for atelectasis (lung collapse) due to shallow breathing and pneumonia due to impaired lung function. A nurse should monitor for signs such as decreased oxygen saturation, increased respiratory rate, and crackles on auscultation. Wound infection (A) is a common post-operative complication but not specific to abdominal surgery. Hyperglycemia (B) may occur due to stress response but is not directly related to abdominal surgery. Dehydration (C) is a concern post-operatively, but respiratory complications like atelectasis and pneumonia are higher priority due to potential life-threatening consequences.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: gout. Uric acid levels are typically checked for gout, a type of arthritis caused by the buildup of uric acid crystals in the joints. This condition directly relates to uric acid levels in the blood. Asthma (choice A), diverticulitis (choice C), and meningitis (choice D) do not typically require checking uric acid levels. Asthma is a respiratory condition, diverticulitis is a gastrointestinal condition, and meningitis is an inflammation of the protective membranes covering the brain and spinal cord.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Administer antibiotics. When caring for a client with severe burns, the first priority is to prevent infection, which can be life-threatening. Administering antibiotics helps reduce the risk of infection. Cleansing and dressing the wounds can come after ensuring infection control. Performing a tracheostomy is not typically the first priority unless there are airway concerns. Administering analgesics is important, but it is not the first priority in this case.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Use a bath blanket for warmth and privacy. This is important when making an occupied bed to ensure the comfort and dignity of the patient. The bath blanket provides warmth and privacy during the bed-making process, maintaining the patient's comfort and respecting their privacy. Keeping the bed in a low position (choice A) is important for safety but not directly related to the patient's comfort during bed-making. Constantly raising side rails (choice C) is unnecessary and may cause discomfort to the patient. Moving back and forth between sides (choice D) is not essential for making an occupied bed and may disrupt the process.