HESI Case Study: COPD with

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HESI Case Study: COPD with

Pneumonia Questions and Answers | Latest Version | 2025/2026 | Correct & Verified

Which assessment finding is most concerning in a client with COPD and pneumonia?

• Productive cough with yellow sputum

✔✔B. Respiratory rate of 32 with accessory muscle use

• Reports of fatigue and poor appetite
• SpO₂ of 91% on room air

Which intervention should the nurse implement first for a COPD client with pneumonia who is short of breath?

• Encourage fluid intake

✔✔B. Elevate the head of the bed

• Provide high-calorie snacks
• Offer emotional reassurance

Which dietary recommendation is best for a client with COPD and pneumonia? 1 / 4

2

• Restrict protein to reduce respiratory workload
• Choose large, heavy meals to conserve energy

✔✔C. Eat small, frequent, high-calorie meals

• Avoid all dairy products completely

Which oxygen delivery system is most appropriate for a client with COPD and pneumonia requiring 2 L/min oxygen?✔✔A. Nasal cannula

• Simple face mask
• Non-rebreather mask
• Venturi mask at 50%

Which client statement indicates correct understanding about energy conservation with COPD and pneumonia?

• “I should exercise after meals to build strength.”

✔✔B. “I will sit while performing daily hygiene tasks.”

• “I should cook all meals at once to save energy.”
• “I will avoid resting between activities.” 2 / 4

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Which nursing diagnosis has the highest priority for COPD with pneumonia?

• Risk for falls

✔✔B. Impaired gas exchange

• Risk for constipation
• Disturbed sleep pattern

Which laboratory result should the nurse report immediately in a COPD client with pneumonia?✔✔A. PaCO₂ of 68 mm Hg

• WBC of 11,500/mm³
• Hematocrit of 47%
• BUN of 18 mg/dL

Which breathing technique should the nurse reinforce for COPD with pneumonia?

• Diaphragmatic breathing only during exercise

✔✔B. Pursed-lip breathing during dyspnea episodes

• Rapid shallow breathing for shortness of breath
• Holding the breath after inhaling 3 / 4

4

Which finding indicates improvement in a client with COPD and pneumonia after antibiotics?

• Increased fatigue
• Persistent fever

✔✔C. Decreased purulent sputum

• Elevated respiratory rate

Which action is most important when administering IV antibiotics to a client with COPD and pneumonia?

• Infuse antibiotics as rapidly as possible

✔✔B. Check allergies before initiating therapy

• Give on an empty stomach for best absorption
• Delay doses if client is sleeping

Which position best facilitates lung expansion in COPD with pneumonia?

• Supine with arms at side

✔✔B. Sitting upright leaning slightly forward

• Prone with pillow under chest
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