HESI PN Nutrition Practice Exam

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: In a child with congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH), monitoring electrolyte balance is crucial. CAH can lead to adrenal insufficiency, causing imbalances in electrolytes such as sodium and potassium. Monitoring electrolyte levels helps in preventing complications like dehydration, electrolyte disturbances, and adrenal crisis. While blood glucose levels may need monitoring in other conditions like diabetes, it is not the primary concern in CAH. Urine output is important in assessing kidney function but is not a direct monitoring parameter for CAH. Hemoglobin levels are more relevant in conditions such as anemia, not specifically in CAH.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Correct answer: Providing clear and age-appropriate information is crucial when addressing a child's concerns about a new medical diagnosis. Children often feel anxious and confused when faced with health issues, so offering them information in a way they can understand helps alleviate their fears and empowers them to cope better. Choice B is incorrect because avoiding discussing the diagnosis can lead to increased anxiety and uncertainty in the child. Choice C is incorrect as referring to a specialist immediately may not be necessary at the initial stage of addressing the child's concerns. Choice D is incorrect as suggesting alternative therapies without providing proper information about the medical diagnosis may not be suitable or effective.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Pallor and fatigue are common signs of iron-deficiency anemia in children. Iron-deficiency anemia is characterized by a decreased production of red blood cells, leading to a paler appearance (pallor) and increased fatigue due to reduced oxygen-carrying capacity. Yellowing of the skin (choice A) is more commonly associated with liver or bile duct issues. Rapid weight gain (choice C) and increased appetite (choice D) are not typical signs of iron-deficiency anemia.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Absence of parasympathetic ganglion cells in a portion of the colon. Hirschsprung disease is a congenital condition characterized by the absence of nerve cells (ganglia) in parts of the colon. This absence leads to a lack of peristalsis in the affected segment, resulting in severe constipation and bowel obstruction. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect. Choice A describes symptoms of diarrhea rather than a causative factor of Hirschsprung disease. Excessive peristaltic movement (choice B) is not a causative factor but rather the opposite, as Hirschsprung disease is associated with reduced peristalsis. Choice D, which refers to intussusception, is a different condition unrelated to Hirschsprung disease.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Difficulty breathing is a common symptom of congenital heart disease in infants. Infants with congenital heart disease may experience difficulty breathing due to impaired cardiac function, which affects the heart's ability to pump blood effectively. This symptom is often due to issues like heart failure or fluid accumulation in the lungs. Excessive weight gain (Choice A) is not typically associated with congenital heart disease in infants. High blood pressure (Choice C) is less common in infants with congenital heart disease compared to adults. Increased appetite (Choice D) is not a typical symptom of congenital heart disease in infants.