QUESTIONS AND CORRECT ANSWERS WITH WELL-ELABORATED
RATIONALES/ EVOLVE HESI MEDICAL SURGICAL LATEST EXAM 2025
1. Question:
A nurse is caring for a client who has heart failure and is receiving
digoxin. The nurse notes that the client has a potassium level of 3.0
mEq/L. Which action should the nurse take?
A) Hold the digoxin and notify the provider.
B) Increase the client's potassium intake and continue the digoxin.
C) Administer the digoxin as prescribed and monitor for bradycardia.
D) Continue the digoxin and decrease the client's potassium intake.
Answer: A) Hold the digoxin and notify the provider.
Rationale:
Hypokalemia (potassium level of 3.0 mEq/L) increases the risk of digoxin
toxicity, which can lead to life-threatening arrhythmias. The nurse
should hold the medication and notify the provider for further
instructions.
2. Question:
A nurse is caring for a postoperative client who is at risk for developing
deep vein thrombosis (DVT). Which intervention should the nurse
implement to reduce the risk of DVT?
A) Apply a heating pad to the client's legs.
B) Encourage the client to sit in a chair for long periods.
C) Use sequential compression devices (SCDs) on the client's legs.
D) Elevate the client's legs above heart level at all times.
,Answer: C) Use sequential compression devices (SCDs) on the client's
legs.
Rationale:
Sequential compression devices (SCDs) are used to promote circulation
and prevent the formation of blood clots in patients at risk for DVT. This
is a recommended intervention to reduce venous stasis and improve
blood flow.
3. Question:
A nurse is caring for a client with a new diagnosis of type 2 diabetes
mellitus. Which of the following client statements indicates an
understanding of the teaching about blood glucose monitoring?
A) “I will check my blood sugar once a day in the morning before
breakfast.”
B) “I will check my blood sugar at different times throughout the day as
instructed.”
C) “I only need to check my blood sugar when I feel symptoms of low
blood sugar.”
D) “I will only need to check my blood sugar once a week.”
Answer: B) “I will check my blood sugar at different times throughout
the day as instructed.”
Rationale:
Clients with diabetes need to monitor their blood glucose at various
times throughout the day to manage their condition effectively. This
ensures better control over blood sugar levels and helps prevent
complications.
, 4. Question:
A nurse is caring for a client with acute pancreatitis. Which of the
following interventions should the nurse prioritize?
A) Encourage oral intake of fluids.
B) Administer opioid pain medications as prescribed.
C) Initiate a clear liquid diet.
D) Monitor for signs of hypoglycemia.
Answer: B) Administer opioid pain medications as prescribed.
Rationale:
Pain management is a priority for clients with acute pancreatitis, as pain
can be severe. Opioid pain medications are typically used, and the nurse
should ensure pain relief is provided to reduce stress and improve
comfort.
5. Question:
A nurse is assessing a client with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
(COPD). Which of the following findings should the nurse report
immediately to the provider?
A) Oxygen saturation of 89%.
B) Productive cough with clear sputum.
C) Respiratory rate of 24 breaths/min.
D) Barrel chest appearance.
Answer: A) Oxygen saturation of 89%.
Rationale:
An oxygen saturation of 89% is below the expected range (usually 90%
or higher) and could indicate insufficient oxygenation. This finding