Pediatric HESI Practice Questions

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Encouraging parents to express their concerns is the most supportive intervention as it allows them to process their emotions and provides an opportunity for the nurse to offer appropriate support and information. This choice focuses on validating the parents' feelings and creating an open communication channel. Choices B and C are incorrect as they can hinder the parents' emotional processing and may provide false reassurance. Choice D, showing postoperative photographs, may not be appropriate at this stage as it might not address the parents' current emotional needs and could induce anxiety or unrealistic expectations.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A. Most childhood cancers, such as leukemias and sarcomas, affect tissues rather than specific organs, unlike many adult cancers. Choice B is incorrect because childhood cancers may not always be localized when found. Choice C is incorrect as childhood cancers can be responsive to treatment, although treatment approaches may differ from adult cancers. Choice D is incorrect as the majority of childhood cancers cannot be prevented; however, certain risk factors can be managed to reduce the risk of developing cancer.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Circumoral cyanosis should alert the nurse to perform a further assessment because it may indicate inadequate oxygenation or circulation, potentially related to cardiac or respiratory issues. Flat occiput (choice A) is a common finding in infants and is not typically concerning. Small, low-set ears (choice B) are common in Down syndrome and not specifically indicative of an acute issue requiring immediate further assessment. Protruding furrowed tongue (choice D) is also commonly seen in infants with Down syndrome and typically does not warrant immediate further assessment unless associated with other concerning signs or symptoms.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: A webbed neck is a key feature seen in Turner syndrome, a genetic condition that occurs in females due to a complete or partial absence of one of the X chromosomes. This physical trait is caused by excess skin on the neck, giving it a webbed appearance. Microcephaly (Choice B) is a condition characterized by a smaller than average head size and is not typically associated with Turner syndrome. Gynecomastia (Choice C) refers to breast enlargement in males and is not a common finding in Turner syndrome, which affects females. Cognitive delay (Choice D) is not a specific characteristic of Turner syndrome, as the syndrome primarily affects physical development and may not necessarily impact cognitive abilities.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: When assessing a 2-year-old child with abdominal pain and adequate perfusion, it is essential to examine the child in the parent's arms. This approach helps reduce anxiety, provide comfort, and establish trust with the child. Palpating the painful area of the abdomen first (Choice B) may cause discomfort and increase anxiety in the child. Placing the child supine and palpating the abdomen (Choice C) without considering the child's comfort and security may lead to resistance and inaccurate assessment. Separating the child from the parent (Choice D) can exacerbate the child's anxiety and hinder the examination process. Therefore, examining the child in the parent's arms is the most appropriate approach in this scenario.