HESI Comprehensive Exit Exam 1 Questions and Verified Answers with Rationales – Herzing University Nursing Study Guide – Updated 2026/2027 – Guaranteed Pass

HESI COMPREHENSIVE EXIT EXAM 1
QUESTIONS AND 100% VERIFIED
ANSWERS WITH RATIONALES GRADED A+
Herzing University

Question 1
A nurse is caring for a client with COPD receiving oxygen via nasal cannula at 2
L/min. Which assessment finding requires immediate intervention?
A. Oxygen saturation of 90%
B. Barrel-shaped chest
C. Increasing somnolence and decreased respiratory rate
D. Use of accessory muscles during inspiration
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Increasing somnolence and decreased respiratory rate indicate
hypoventilation and potential CO₂ retention, which is a medical emergency.


Question 2
A client with type 1 diabetes presents with polyuria, polydipsia, fruity breath, and
deep respirations. Which laboratory value would the nurse expect?
A. Decreased serum potassium
B. Metabolic acidosis
C. Decreased blood glucose
D. Respiratory alkalosis
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: These signs indicate diabetic ketoacidosis, which causes metabolic
acidosis.

,Question 3
A postoperative client reports calf pain and swelling. What is the priority action?
A. Apply warm compresses
B. Encourage ambulation
C. Measure calf circumference
D. Notify the healthcare provider
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: These are classic signs of deep vein thrombosis, which requires
immediate medical evaluation to prevent pulmonary embolism.


Question 4
Which statement by a client with heart failure indicates correct understanding of
self-care?
A. “I should drink extra fluids to prevent dehydration.”
B. “I will weigh myself daily at the same time.”
C. “I can stop my medication when I feel better.”
D. “I should eat foods high in sodium.”
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Daily weights help detect early fluid retention, allowing prompt
intervention.


Question 5
A nurse prepares to administer digoxin. Which assessment finding requires
withholding the medication?
A. Apical pulse of 58 bpm
B. Blood pressure of 132/76 mmHg
C. Potassium level of 4.0 mEq/L
D. Respiratory rate of 18/min

,Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Digoxin is held if the apical pulse is below 60 bpm to prevent
bradycardia.


Question 6
A client with a head injury has clear nasal drainage. What is the most appropriate
action?
A. Test the drainage for glucose
B. Suction the nasal passages
C. Apply pressure to stop drainage
D. Insert a nasal airway
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Glucose testing helps confirm cerebrospinal fluid leakage, which
requires careful monitoring.


Question 7
A client receives IV morphine postoperatively. Which finding requires immediate
action?
A. Respiratory rate of 10/min
B. Blood pressure of 110/70 mmHg
C. Pain score decreased from 8 to 3
D. Mild nausea
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Respiratory depression is a life-threatening side effect that requires
urgent intervention.

, Question 8
Why is protein intake limited in chronic kidney disease?
A. Protein increases blood pressure
B. Protein worsens electrolyte imbalances
C. Protein increases nitrogenous waste products
D. Protein causes kidney stones
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Protein metabolism produces waste that damaged kidneys cannot
excrete efficiently.


Question 9
Which lab value is most important to monitor for a client receiving chemotherapy?
A. Hemoglobin
B. White blood cell count
C. Platelet count
D. Sodium level
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Chemotherapy causes immunosuppression, increasing infection risk.


Question 10
A client with cirrhosis develops ascites. Which intervention is most appropriate?
A. High-protein diet
B. Sodium restriction
C. Increased fluid intake
D. Potassium supplementation
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Sodium restriction helps reduce fluid accumulation associated with
ascites.