HESI CAT Exam 2022 Related

Review HESI CAT Exam 2022 related questions and content

After 2 days of treatment for dehydration, a child continues to vomit and have diarrhea. Normal saline is infusing, and the child's urine output is 50ml/hour. During morning assessment, the nurse determines that the child is lethargic and difficult to arouse. Which action should the nurse implement?

  • A. Perform a finger stick glucose test
  • B. Increase the IV fluid flow rate
  • C. Review 24-hour intake and output
  • D. Obtain arterial blood gases
Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Lethargy and difficulty arousing may indicate hypoglycemia, which should be assessed before other actions. Performing a finger stick glucose test is crucial to evaluate the child's blood sugar levels and address hypoglycemia promptly. Increasing the IV fluid flow rate is not indicated without knowing the glucose status. Reviewing 24-hour intake and output is important but not the priority when lethargy and difficulty arousing are present. Obtaining arterial blood gases is not the primary assessment needed in this situation.