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High Acuity HESI Questions and Answers | Latest Version | 2025/2026 | Correct & Verified
What is the priority nursing intervention for a patient with a tracheostomy who suddenly cannot breathe?✔✔Call for help and provide bag-valve-mask ventilation with oxygen.
A patient with chest trauma develops tracheal deviation to the left side. What condition is suspected?✔✔Tension pneumothorax.
What is the first action when a patient’s chest tube becomes disconnected from the drainage system?✔✔Place the tubing end in sterile water.
What is the priority assessment for a patient receiving norepinephrine infusion?✔✔Monitor blood pressure and extremity perfusion.
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A patient on a ventilator has high-pressure alarms sounding. What is the first action?✔✔Check for kinks or obstruction in the tubing.
What is the primary goal when treating a patient in septic shock?✔✔Restore tissue perfusion with fluids and vasopressors.
What electrolyte imbalance is most concerning in a patient receiving IV insulin for hyperkalemia?✔✔Hypoglycemia.
What is the priority action when a patient pulls out their endotracheal tube?✔✔Provide oxygen and prepare for re-intubation.
What lab value is most important to monitor in a patient with acute kidney injury?✔✔Serum potassium.
A patient with burns over 50% of their body is at greatest risk for what early complication?✔✔Hypovolemic shock. 2 / 3
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What is the priority intervention for a patient with suspected stroke who arrives at the ER?✔✔Perform a rapid neurological assessment and obtain a CT scan.
A patient with a spinal cord injury at C4 is at risk for what life-threatening complication?✔✔Respiratory failure.
What is the first action if a central line is accidentally removed and the patient develops shortness of breath?✔✔Apply an occlusive dressing to prevent air embolism.
What is the priority nursing action for a patient with increased intracranial pressure?✔✔Elevate the head of the bed to 30 degrees.
A patient in cardiogenic shock is most likely to present with what key finding?✔✔Low blood pressure and crackles in the lungs.
What is the nurse’s immediate action if a patient develops ventricular tachycardia with no pulse?
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