Pediatric HESI Practice Questions

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: After a prolonged hospitalization, a toddler may exhibit excessively demanding behavior as they readjust to being home. This behavior can stem from the child feeling insecure or anxious about the changes in their environment. The child may seek extra attention and reassurance during this transition period. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because hostility, shallowness in attachment, and withdrawal without emotional ties are less likely behaviors to be displayed by a toddler readjusting to home after a hospital stay.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Surgical repair of patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) aims to prevent increased pulmonary vascular congestion, which can lead to congestive heart failure and respiratory distress. Choice A, pulmonary infection, is not a direct complication of PDA but rather a result of other factors. Choice B, right-to-left shunt of blood, is a characteristic of a different heart condition (e.g., Tetralogy of Fallot) and not specifically associated with PDA. Choice C, decreased workload on the left side of the heart, is not a typical complication of PDA but rather a consequence of left-to-right shunting that can cause volume overload in the pulmonary circulation.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: 'Despair'. In separation anxiety, the stage of despair is characterized by regression and withdrawal after the initial protest. The toddler's shift from intense crying to lying quietly with a blanket demonstrates this withdrawal behavior. Choice A, 'Denial', is incorrect as denial involves refusing to accept the reality of separation. Choice C, 'Mistrust', is incorrect as it relates to a lack of trust rather than the stage of separation anxiety described in the scenario. Choice D, 'Rejection', is incorrect as it does not reflect the behavior of the toddler in the scenario, which is more indicative of withdrawal and regression.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: When teaching an adolescent with type 1 diabetes about dietary management, it is crucial to ensure a ready source of glucose is available. In cases of hypoglycemia, having a quick source of glucose can help raise blood sugar levels rapidly. Option A is not the most critical aspect of dietary management for an adolescent with type 1 diabetes. While it is generally recommended to eat meals at home for better control over food choices, the availability of a ready glucose source takes precedence. Option B, weighing foods on a gram scale, may not be practical for every meal and could be burdensome. Option D, cooking specific foods for the adolescent, is not necessary as the focus should be on the overall dietary plan rather than individualized meals.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Bone growth primarily occurs in the epiphysis, which is the area where growth plates are located. The epiphysis is responsible for longitudinal bone growth. The growth plate, also known as the physis, is the cartilaginous region in the metaphysis where bone growth occurs. The metaphysis is the area between the epiphysis and diaphysis where bone lengthening occurs, but it is not the primary site of bone growth. Therefore, choices A, C, and D are incorrect.