Pediatric HESI 2024

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: 'Mental retardation occurs if PKU is untreated.' Phenylketonuria (PKU) is a metabolic disorder that results in the inability to metabolize phenylalanine properly. Without proper dietary management, high levels of phenylalanine can lead to severe mental retardation and other neurological problems. Therefore, educating parents about the importance of early and consistent treatment to prevent mental retardation is crucial. Choice B is incorrect because testing for PKU is typically done shortly after birth, not immediately. Choice C is incorrect because treatment for PKU primarily involves strict dietary management to control phenylalanine intake, not lifelong medications. Choice D is incorrect because PKU is inherited in an autosomal recessive pattern, not as an autosomal dominant gene.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: In cases of sexual assault, it is crucial to prioritize the patient's emotional and physical comfort. Asking a female EMT-B to attempt the assessment is the most appropriate initial action as it respects the patient's need for privacy and comfort. Asking the patient to sign a release form (Choice A) is not the immediate concern when the patient's well-being and comfort are at stake. Explaining to the patient that she must be examined (Choice C) disregards her autonomy and can worsen the trauma she is experiencing. Transporting the patient without performing an assessment (Choice D) neglects the necessary evaluation and potentially vital care that she may require.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: When a 3-year-old hospitalized child wets the bed during a nap, the nurse should respond by changing the child's clothes without discussing the incident. This approach helps to maintain the child's dignity, avoid embarrassment, and reduce anxiety related to bedwetting. Asking the child to help with remaking the bed (Choice A) may not be appropriate as it could cause unnecessary distress. Putting clean sheets on the bed over a rubber sheet (Choice B) addresses the aftermath but does not directly address the child's needs. Explaining that children should call the nurse when they need to go to the bathroom (Choice D) may not be effective in this immediate situation of bedwetting during a nap.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Administering a bronchodilator is the priority intervention for a child experiencing an acute asthma exacerbation. Bronchodilators help to dilate the airways quickly, providing immediate relief by opening up the narrowed air passages in asthma. Antihistamines are not the first-line treatment for asthma exacerbations and may not address the underlying bronchoconstriction. Corticosteroids are important for long-term control of asthma but may take longer to have an effect compared to bronchodilators. Administering oxygen is essential for hypoxemia in asthma exacerbations, but the priority is to relieve bronchoconstriction promptly with a bronchodilator.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: In infants, monitoring IV flow rates is essential to prevent fluid overload, not cardiac overload. Excessive fluid administration can lead to complications such as pulmonary edema or congestive heart failure. It is crucial to maintain a balance between providing adequate hydration and avoiding fluid overload to prevent adverse outcomes. Options A, B, and D are incorrect because the primary concern is to prevent complications related to excess fluid rather than focusing on electrolyte balance, dehydration prevention, or avoiding cardiac overload.