QUESTIONS AND CORRECT ANSWERS WITH WELL-ELABORATED RATIONALES/
EVOLVE HESI MEDICAL SURGICAL LATEST EXAM 2025
Question 1:
A nurse is caring for a client who has just been diagnosed with heart
failure and is prescribed a diuretic. Which of the following lab results
would the nurse need to monitor closely?
A) Sodium
B) Potassium
C) Calcium
D) Phosphorus
Answer: B) Potassium
Rationale: Diuretics, especially loop diuretics like furosemide, can cause
potassium depletion. Monitoring potassium levels is essential to
prevent hypokalemia, which can lead to arrhythmias and other
complications.
Question 2:
A nurse is providing discharge instructions for a client after a
laparoscopic cholecystectomy. Which of the following statements by
the client indicates a need for further teaching?
A) "I should avoid heavy lifting for at least 2 weeks."
B) "I can take a shower the day after surgery."
C) "I may experience shoulder pain after the procedure."
D) "I should eat a high-fat diet to help with digestion."
,Answer: D) "I should eat a high-fat diet to help with digestion."
Rationale: After gallbladder surgery, clients should avoid high-fat foods
because the gallbladder no longer stores bile, which aids in fat
digestion. A low-fat diet is recommended to prevent discomfort and
complications.
Question 3:
A nurse is caring for a client who has just undergone a total hip
replacement. Which of the following actions should the nurse take to
prevent hip dislocation postoperatively?
A) Have the client bend at the waist to tie their shoes.
B) Instruct the client to avoid internal rotation of the hip.
C) Allow the client to cross their legs while sitting.
D) Encourage the client to sleep on the operative side.
Answer: B) Instruct the client to avoid internal rotation of the hip.
Rationale: After a total hip replacement, internal rotation can cause
dislocation of the new hip joint. The client should avoid crossing their
legs or bending at the waist.
Question 4:
A nurse is assessing a client with a history of chronic obstructive
pulmonary disease (COPD). Which of the following findings is a
priority for the nurse to report to the healthcare provider?
A) Oxygen saturation of 89%
B) The presence of a productive cough
C) Increased respiratory rate of 18 breaths/min
D) Use of accessory muscles for breathing
, Answer: A) Oxygen saturation of 89%
Rationale: An oxygen saturation level of 89% is lower than the expected
range (90-100%) and indicates hypoxemia, which is a priority issue that
requires prompt intervention, especially in clients with COPD.
Question 5:
A nurse is teaching a client with type 2 diabetes about foot care.
Which of the following client statements indicates an understanding
of the teaching?
A) "I will use hot water to soak my feet daily."
B) "I should inspect my feet daily for cuts or blisters."
C) "I will trim my toenails in a rounded shape to avoid ingrown nails."
D) "I can wear tight shoes as long as they are comfortable."
Answer: B) "I should inspect my feet daily for cuts or blisters."
Rationale: Clients with diabetes are at risk for poor circulation and
neuropathy, so regular foot inspection is crucial to identify potential
problems early. Soaking feet in hot water and wearing tight shoes are
contraindicated.
Question 6:
A nurse is caring for a client with acute pancreatitis. Which of the
following is a priority intervention for the nurse?
A) Administering morphine for pain relief
B) Encouraging oral intake of fluids
C) Monitoring blood glucose levels
D) Placing the client in a low Fowler's position