HESI Fundamentals Exam Test Bank

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The appropriate nursing action when an irregularity in the heart rate is observed is to count the apical pulse rate for a full minute and describe the rhythm in the chart. This approach helps in obtaining an accurate assessment of the irregularities present. Measuring the blood pressure (Choice B) is important but not the immediate priority when an irregular heart rate is noted. Performing an ECG (Choice C) may be necessary but is a more advanced intervention that should follow the initial assessment. Rechecking the heart rate after 5 minutes (Choice D) may delay potential interventions for addressing the irregularity, making it less appropriate than the immediate assessment and documentation of the pulse rhythm.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Taping the catheter to the lower abdomen is the correct placement to prevent pressure on the urethra at the penoscrotal junction. Securing the catheter at the lower abdomen helps in reducing discomfort and minimizes the risk of trauma to the urethra. Placing the catheter on the upper thigh or penoscrotal junction can lead to tension on the catheter and potential discomfort for the patient. Taping the catheter to the mid-abdomen is not recommended as it does not provide the necessary support to prevent pressure on the urethra at the penoscrotal junction.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: 'Is unable to swallow foods by mouth.' Tube feeding is prescribed when a client is unable to safely swallow food by mouth but has a functional gastrointestinal tract. Option B, 'Has a gastrointestinal obstruction,' is incorrect as tube feeding is not typically prescribed for this reason. Option C, 'Requires additional caloric intake to support healing,' is incorrect because tube feeding is specifically for clients who are unable to swallow. Option D, 'Is at risk for aspiration,' is also incorrect as tube feeding would not be the primary intervention for aspiration risk; other strategies to reduce aspiration risk would be implemented instead.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The first action the nurse should take when preparing to lift and reposition a patient is to assess the patient's weight to determine the assistance needed. This step is crucial for the safety of both the patient and the nurse. Positioning a drawsheet under the patient (Choice B) is important for the comfort and safety during the repositioning process but should come after assessing the weight and assistance requirements. Delegating the task to a nursing assistive personnel (Choice C) can be considered once the assessment is complete and additional help is needed. Attempting to manually lift the patient alone before asking for assistance (Choice D) is unsafe and should never be done without first assessing the weight and determining the need for help.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: In situations where a client is in the terminal stage of cancer and crying, it is essential for the nurse to provide comfort and support. Sitting with the client and holding their hand can offer a sense of presence and emotional support, showing empathy and understanding. Encouraging the client to talk about their feelings (choice B) is also important, but initially, non-verbal support through physical presence can be comforting. Leaving the client alone to cry (choice C) can make the client feel abandoned and unsupported during a vulnerable moment. Ignoring the client's crying (choice D) is not appropriate and lacks compassion and empathy, which are crucial in end-of-life care.