1
HESI Case Study; Older Adult with Stroke Questions and Answers | Latest Version | 2025/2026 | Correct & Verified
A nurse is caring for an older adult with a recent stroke who has right-sided weakness. What is the priority intervention when assisting with ambulation?✔✔Support the client on the weaker side and use a gait belt for safety
An older adult post-stroke is having difficulty swallowing. What is the best nursing action?✔✔Consult speech therapy for a swallowing evaluation before resuming oral intake
A patient recovering from a stroke shows signs of depression. What should the nurse do first?✔✔Encourage the patient to express feelings and provide emotional support
Which position should the nurse place a stroke patient in to reduce risk of aspiration during meals?✔✔High Fowler’s position with chin tucked while swallowing
- / 4
2
An older adult with stroke has expressive aphasia. What is the best way to communicate?✔✔Use simple yes/no questions and allow time for responses
A patient post-stroke is unable to move their left arm. What nursing intervention promotes mobility?✔✔Perform passive range-of-motion exercises to prevent contractures
An older adult recovering from a stroke reports constipation. What is the priority nursing intervention?✔✔Encourage increased fluid intake and physical activity as tolerated
A nurse notices a patient with stroke dragging one foot while walking. What is the best response?✔✔Encourage the use of an assistive device such as a cane or walker
A patient post-stroke becomes frustrated when unable to button clothing. What is the best nursing action?✔✔Provide adaptive clothing with Velcro fastenings to promote independence
- / 4
3
A nurse is assisting a stroke patient with feeding who has unilateral neglect. What should the nurse do?✔✔Place food on the unaffected side and remind the patient to turn their head toward the neglected side
An older adult with stroke is unable to speak but understands instructions. What is the nurse’s best intervention?✔✔Provide communication tools such as picture boards or writing pads
A patient post-stroke shows signs of urinary incontinence. What is the best nursing intervention?✔✔Implement a scheduled toileting program to reduce incontinence episodes
A nurse caring for a stroke patient observes drooling while drinking. What is the safest intervention?✔✔Provide thickened liquids to reduce aspiration risk
An older adult with stroke becomes fatigued easily during physical therapy. What should the nurse do?✔✔Schedule rest periods between activities to conserve energy 3 / 4
4
A patient recovering from a stroke is at risk for skin breakdown. What is the priority nursing action?✔✔Reposition the patient at least every 2 hours and inspect skin regularly
An older adult with stroke is unable to perform oral hygiene independently. What should the nurse do?✔✔Assist with oral care while encouraging the patient to participate as much as possible
A nurse notes that a patient with stroke has slurred speech. What is the most appropriate action?✔✔Assess swallowing ability before giving oral fluids or medications
A patient with a stroke is having difficulty understanding spoken instructions. What should the nurse do?✔✔Use simple, clear, short phrases and repeat instructions as needed
A patient post-stroke has impaired mobility and complains of shoulder pain on the affected side.What should the nurse do?✔✔Support the affected arm with a sling or pillow to prevent subluxation
- / 4