HESI Registered Nurse EXIT Practice Exam

Which finding would the nurse associate with anemia in a 10-month-old infant?

1. Hemoglobin level of 12 g/dL

2. Pale mucosa of the eyelids and lips

3. Hypoactivity

4. A heart rate between 140 to 160

The correct answer is: Pale mucosa of the eyelids and lips

The presence of pale mucosa of the eyelids and lips is a significant finding that can be associated with anemia in a 10-month-old infant. Anemia often results in reduced levels of hemoglobin or hematocrit, which in turn can lead to decreased oxygen delivery to tissues. This lack of oxygen can manifest as pallor, particularly noted in areas where the skin is thinner and blood vessels are more visible, such as the eyelids and lips. Pale mucosa serves as a clinical indicator that is readily observable during a physical assessment, making it an important finding for nurses to recognize in the context of potential anemia. In infants, who may not show other signs of anemia as clearly as older children or adults, changes in mucosal coloration can serve as a vital sign of underlying health issues. Other findings such as the hemoglobin level of 12 g/dL may suggest normal levels in a 10-month-old infant since typical values range from about 9.5 to 13.5 g/dL at that age. Hypoactivity, while it can be associated with anemia, is less specific and can stem from numerous other conditions. Lastly, a heart rate between 140 to 160 beats per minute is within normal physiological parameters