NCLEX-RN Exam Prep: 1001 Questions
NCLEX-RN Exam Prep: 1001 Questions
Congratulations on completing your initial nursing education. You are so close to becoming a
registered nurse. As you know, it was a tough road. There may have been days where you were
exhausted, overwhelmed, and unsure if you’d ever get this far. You persevered and you did it!
Now it's time to complete the next step which is preparing for the NCLEX-RN Exam. Don’t
worry, you’ve got this. You already know this stuff. Think of how many tests you have already
passed. You know more than you think you do, and after completing this course, you will do
just fine.
This course is going to make passing the exam more comfortable. We will cover all of the areas
you will be tested on. We highlight Key Takeaways which are critical points throughout the
program.
Some graduate nurses feel overwhelmed thinking about taking their boards. You don't have to.
By the time you complete this course you will be confident in your abilities to take, and pass,
the exam with flying colors.
This course is specially designed and balanced so you can identify areas you need to
concentrate your attention on. It contains the same proportions of topic questions as the
NCLEX-RN exam.
After completing this course, you will be well prepared and know what to expect when the day
comes for you take and pass your boards.
Let’s take a few minutes to discuss what you will be tested on.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Introduction ............................................................................................................................ 1
The entire test is based on client needs. There are four key areas.
Some of these areas are broken down into multiple focus topics. Here is the actual percentage
of questions you can expect during this review course and when you take the NCLEX-RN exam.
Physiological Integrity
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Here is what we will be covering in the course.
There are a total of 1001 review questions. We’ve got you covered so that there won’t be any
surprises during your exam. The following are the topics covered in the NCLEX-RN exam:
Topics:
Management of Care
Psychosocial
Risk Reduction
Physiological Adaption
Your supplement shows how much of each topic is covered by approximate percentage in the
exam. It also lists the number of questions to expect in this course for each area.
These areas will be covered as we review professional standards, fundamentals, the human
lifespan, and body systems. We will initially address key areas and then incorporate them
throughout the course. This will prepare you well for your exam. The NCLEX-RN integrates
topics randomly during the test.
When we are reviewing the unit on cardiac health, there will be questions about management
of cardiac patient care. These may include ethical dilemmas, case management, or continuity of
care in relation to the care being provided to a patient with a cardiac problem. We may address
the safe use of AEDs and post-operative angioplasty care as part of infection control and safety.
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We may include a question about fear and coping to address psychosocial needs. There will be
additional questions focusing on the pharmacology of cardiac drugs, reducing the risk of post-
MI, and fluid balance in patients with congestive heart failure. By presenting problems within
the realm of human needs, you will have opportunities to think about real life questions that
arise as you care for your patients.
The beauty of this course is that you can use it anytime, anywhere. While we recommend
setting aside a block of time each day to review the materials, one of the benefits of the
program is you can set aside an hour to listen one day or answer just a few quick questions
while waiting to pick up children from a basketball game. Listen during your commute or at the
gym. Be sure to note the questions or areas that you should study more. This program is highly
flexible, so use it to meet your individual needs. By now you know how you study best, so
capitalize on the study skills you already possess.
It’s important to remember this is information you have already learned. There are bound to be
areas you are more and less confident about. Relax and view the course merely as a study tool.
Be sure to take care of your mind, body, and spirit in the weeks leading up to your exam. How
you approach the NCLEX-RN is as important as your knowledge base. You can relax, knowing
that we are covering all areas that will be addressed on the NCLEX-RN.
When you answer questions, assume you are providing acute care unless the question indicates
otherwise. Assume that the patient is an adult unless otherwise stated. Base your answers on
what you would do if you were in a top-notch facility with all the needed resources available.
Always choose the BEST answer to the question.
You will be asked a question a question followed by four multiple choice questions. Select the
best one. The answers will be presented next. Mark questions that are difficult or those that
remind you of other topics you want to review. The first 800 questions will be presented as
topics are reviewed. The final 201 will be presented after all of the material is covered. They
will be given randomly just like the NCLEX-RN.
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For a detailed outline of the course layout, please refer to the Table of Contents in your
supplement.
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PART 1 SAFE AND EFFECTIVE CARE ENVIRONMENT
Part one consists of information that you need regardless of the type of nursing that you do.
We will begin by covering standards. Next, we will review the delivery of care. We’ll then
proceed to safety, infection control, and surgery.
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Client’s /Patient’s Bill of Rights protects clients to participate in their health
care and health care decisions. The Good Samaritan Law protects health care providers
who provide emergency care while off duty. The Mental Health System’s Act protects
individuals who have mental health challenges. The Health Care Portability and
Accountability Notice (HIPAA) ensures the privacy of personal health information.
A. Keep trying to notify the parents. If they aren’t reachable, call the grandparents for
permission to treat.
B. Provide emergency care while attempts are made to contact the parents.
C. Ask the child to sign a temporary consent to treat since she is sixteen years of age.
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D. Obtain telephone consent by having two staff members listen on the telephone
while verbal permission is given.
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Parental consent is not needed in emergency situations. The first priority is
relieving the respiratory distress. Teens under the age of eighteen may only sign
consents if they are emancipated minors.
Correct answer: B
Rationale: The Americans with Disabilities Act provides comprehensive protection for
workers, and other individuals infected with HIV. It protects all people who have
disabilities.
4. A homeless client arrives at the emergency department with a sprained ankle. He does
not have any money or insurance. What law requires that the client is treated?
Correct answer: D
Rationale: EMTALA, the Emergency Medical Treatment, and Active Labor Act requires
that hospitals provide an evaluation of a client. The facility may not discharge or transfer
the client in an emergency situation until the clients health status is stabilized.
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C. the arrest of clients who use medical marijuana while traveling in a state that has
not legalized medical marijuana providing they have written documentation of their
prescription
D. insurers from placing lower limits on policy amounts for mental health benefits than
other benefits
Correct answer: D
Rationale: The Mental Health Parity Act prohibits insurance companies from placing
lower limits on policy amounts for mental health than it does for other healthcare
issues.
Correct answer: A
Rationale: HIPAA, the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act, protects
individuals from losing their health insurance when changing jobs. It establishes rules for
privacy and confidentiality.
7. A state statute that declares a competent individual with a terminal illness may legally
request medication to end their life humanely:
Correct answer: C
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Let’s move on to our next section.
1.1B. CONFIDENTIALITY
8. Disclosure of Personal Health Information (PHI) is acceptable for all of the following
except:
Correct answer: D
A. Discussing a client’s care with a co-worker who is not assigned to that client.
B. Attending an interdisciplinary team meeting to discuss discharge plans for a
client.
C. Sharing a client’s Personal Health Information with the client’s physical
therapist.
D. Contacting Protective Services to report suspected elder abuse of a client
that you are providing care for.
Correct answer: D
Rationale: Personal Health Information may be shared with providers who are/or will be
involved in the care of the client. Providers may only access information needed to
perform their duties.
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10. A client is diagnosed with genital warts. She states that she is no longer sexually active
and does not want to tell her previous partner about her diagnosis. The nurse:
Correct answer: B
Rationale: The nurse is bound by client confidentiality. Educating the client will help her
understand why it is vital she notify her former partner.
A. The Security Rule of the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA)
B. Case management
C. Performance improvement
D. Advance directives
Correct answer: A
Rationale: The Security Rule of the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act
(HIPAA) provides safeguards to ensure confidentiality and the availability of Protected
Health Information. The rule governs electronic and other forms of information.
12. The Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) protects all of the
following except:
Correct answer: C
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Rationale: The Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) protects
confidential health information regardless of whether it is oral, handwritten, or
electronically stored.
13. A woman frantically calls the emergency department to see if her sister is there. The
woman’s sister is an emergency department client, but she is currently having an
ultrasound. The nurse:
A. Tells the caller that the sister is in the emergency department but can’t come to the
telephone right now
B. Asks the woman to call back in 20 minutes when the client is likely to be back from
getting the ultrasound
C. Reassures the woman that her sister is stable and having a test performed
D. Does not confirm or deny the presence of the client
Correct answer: D
Rationale: Healthcare workers are prohibited from disclosing information about clients
unless permission has been granted by the client.
14. A visitor enquires about a family member’s roommate. The roommate has been
moved to the intensive care unit. The nurse states that:
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Healthcare workers are prohibited from disclosing information about clients
unless permission has been granted by the client.
15. The nurse is discussing a client’s health status in the hall with another staff member
who is also caring for the client. A therapist from another unit overhears and says that
she knows the client from previous admissions. The therapist asks for the room
number that the client is in. The nurse:
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B. Realizes that she has breached the law by disclosing a client’s Personal Health
Information
C. Asks the therapist for input about the client
D. Continues to discuss the client with the co-worker who needs information to provide
care
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Only health care providers involved in the clients care may discuss clients.
Health care workers are bound by law to avoid disclosing information intentionally or
inadvertently.
16. Who does not have the “right to know” about a client’s condition?
A. The billing department worker who is processing the client’s medical claim
B. The physician from another facility who is providing consultation services
C. A nursing student who is caring for the client’s roommate
D. The facility’s performance improvement nurse
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Direct and indirect providers have the right to know about a client’s
condition.
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1.1C. ADVANCE DIRECTIVES AND LIFE PLANNING
17. Documents competent individuals make which state their preferences regarding
medical care and decision made should they become incapacitated are collectively
called:
A. Living wills
B. Do Not Resuscitate Orders (DNR)
C. Durable Power of Attorney
D. Advanced Directives
Correct answer: D
18. A client suffered a CVA and is not likely to survive without artificial feeding. He is
unresponsive. His living will indicates he does not want to receive tube feedings. The
client’s health care surrogate wants tube feedings administered. Which of the
following statements describes this situation correctly?
A. The surrogate is legally bound to respect the client’s living will and cannot insist that
tube feedings be administered.
B. The surrogate can choose to request that tube feedings be administered as a living
will is not legally binding.
C. Tube feedings may be provided legally for up to seventy-two hours only with the
approval of the hospital’s ethics committee.
D. It is illegal to order tube feedings for this patient so total parenteral nutrition may be
instituted instead.
Correct answer: B
Rationale: A living will is a document which states individual preferences that a person
has regarding care to be provided or withdrawn if the individual is unable to make their
needs/desires known. Surrogates/ proxies are not bound to honor the person’s
preferences.
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19. The law which states that clients/patients must be given information regarding their
rights to provide written instructions about the care that they wish to have if they are
unable to make their own health care decisions is called the:
Correct answer: B
20. Who needs to sign a “do not resuscitate/DNR” order for it to be valid?
A. The client, or their designee if the client is incapacitated, and the client’s primary
care provider
B. The client and their lawyer
C. A physician, and the client, or client’s next of kin or surrogate if the client is unable
to sign.
D. Two physicians
Correct answer: C
Rationale: Any physician who is caring for a client may sign a “do not resuscitate/DNR”
order. The client must sign. If the client can’t sign, the next of kin, health care proxy, or
health care surrogate may sign.
21. A client is admitted to a long-term care facility. He says that he has advanced
directives. What does the nurse do?
A. Flag the client’s chart so caregivers know that he has a Do Not Resuscitate Order
B. Call the physician and request a Do Not Resuscitate order
C. Make a copy of the advance directive and place it in the client’s medical record
D. Contact the nursing supervisor
Correct answer: C
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Rationale: Upon admission to a facility, the client should be asked if they have executed
advanced directives. If there are advance directives, a copy needs to be made and
placed in the client’s medical record.
22. A client is admitted to the hospital. She does not have advance directives. What
should happen as a result?
Correct answer: D
Rationale: Upon admission to a facility, the client should be asked if they have executed
advanced directives. If there are no advance directives, the client needs to be asked
whether or not they would like to create one. If the answer is yes, an opportunity needs
to be provided so that the client can create advance directives.
23. A 21-year-old overdosed and is ventilator dependent. The client has no advance
directives. There is no brain, respiratory, or cardiac function. The parents cannot agree
regarding whether or not he should be taken off of the ventilator and allowed to die.
What persons or groups of people may be best considered as supportive resources?
Correct answer: A
Rationale: An interdisciplinary team meeting may help the family. If they don’t agree, a
referral to the ethics committee may be indicated.
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24. A client is going to be transferred to an inpatient hospice facility. The client is
unresponsive. He doesn’t have any family or known friends. The hospital ethics
committee has determined the client should have a do not resuscitate order. What
needs to happen?
A. The chief of staff and attending physician sign a do not resuscitate order
B. A notice is placed in local newspapers in an attempt to find the next of kin
C. A guardian is appointed by a judge
D. A do not resuscitate order cannot be written. The man needs to be resuscitated if he
goes into cardiac arrest
Correct answer: C
Rationale: The facility contacts the local court. A judge assigns a guardian. The guardian
can opt to sign or not sign a do not resuscitate order.
25. A client or their designee must provide _____________________ in order for a do not
resuscitate order to be valid.
Correct answer: D
Rationale: A client or their designee must provide informed consent for a do not
resuscitate order to be valid.
26. An unresponsive terminally ill client goes into cardiac arrest at the clinic. The nurse:
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Correct answer: A
Rationale: If a do not resuscitate order is not available or if the code status is unknown,
health care personnel must begin cardiopulmonary resuscitation.
Correct answer: D
Rationale: The Patient Self- Determination Act requires that public education regarding
advance directives be provided.
A. A person who has a durable power of attorney legally makes medical decisions on a
person’s behalf regardless of whether or not the person can make their desires
known or not.
B. A durable power of attorney for health care is the same as other types of durable
powers of attorney
C. A durable power of attorney for healthcare is distinct from a durable power of
attorney for financial purposes
D. A durable power of attorney is appointed by a judge
Correct answer: C
Rationale: A durable power of attorney for healthcare is distinct from a durable power
of attorney for financial purposes. It is only valid when a person cannot make their own
healthcare decisions.
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C. Married individuals are required by law to have their spouse represent them as their
health care surrogate unless they are legally separated, or the spouse agrees that
another individual may act as health the care surrogate
D. Advance directives are only valid for ten years in most jurisdictions of the US.
Correct answer: A
Correct answer: C
Rationale: Many organs can be harvested regardless of whether or not the body is kept
on mechanical ventilation. The other statements are true.
31. Which is a correct statement regarding generally accepted religious beliefs, organ
donation, and transplantation:
Correct answer: B
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Witnesses may receive organ transplants only if the organs are cleansed with a non-
blood solution before transplantation.
A. 2
B. 4
C. 8
D. 12
Correct answer: C
33. All of the following organs except _______________ may be harvested from donors
while they are living:
A. A kidney
B. Portions of a liver, and lung
C. Portions of a spleen
D. Portions of intestines
Correct answer: C
Rationale: Living donors may donate a kidney and portions of their liver, lungs, and
intestines. Other tissues such as skin and sometimes eyes may be given.
34. The following factors are considered when selecting a transplant recipient except:
Correct answer: A
35. What must occur first before organs may be harvested from a deceased donor?
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A. Blood type, cross, and screen
B. The Patient Self-Determination Act must be signed by the surviving next of kin or
guardian
C. Blood cultures must be obtained and found free from bacterial growth
D. Brain death
Correct answer: D
Rationale: Death of the entire brain including the brain stem must occur before organ
harvesting.
1.1E ETHICS
36. As you are receiving report at the beginning your shift, you notice a strong odor of
alcohol from the nurse giving you report. Her speech is slurred, and she appears to be
under the influence of alcohol. There is a vodka bottle next to her. What is the first
step that you should take?
A. Call security
B. Confront the nurse
C. Make out an incident report
D. Call your supervisor
Correct answer: D
Rationale: Notify your supervisor immediately. The supervisor will evaluate the
situation, report the incident to the board of nursing, and alert others as needed. The
board of nursing will review the incident and make recommendations regarding
treatment and supervision of the impaired nurse.
37. The nurse works in the medical-surgical nursing unit. Upon arrival at work, she's
instructed to work in the medical intensive care unit as that area is understaffed. The
nurses never worked in a medical intensive care unit. What is the best action that the
nurse can take?
A. Call her supervisor and tell her that she is sick and has to go home.
B. Refuse to float as she has never been oriented to the intensive care unit and does
not have the skills of an intensive care unit nurse.
C. Contact the vice president of nursing and the hospital's legal department.
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D. Accept and clarify the assignment, advise the nursing leader in the medical ICU of
her abilities and limitations, and request an assignment within her skill set.
Correct answer: D
Rationale: If the nurse has concerns about client safety and suitability of the assignment
she needs to follow the hospital chain of command and notify the nursing supervisor.
Nurses are routinely required to float unless union contracts guarantee that nurses
won't float or if a nurse can prove that they do not have the skills needed to carry out an
assignment. Clarifying the assignment and discussing the nurse’s abilities ensures that
care can be provided safely. Going home or refusing to float is not acceptable.
38. The concept that the best interest of the client is more important than that of a
caregiver is called:
A. Ethical behavior
B. Beneficence
C. Maleficence
D. Justice
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Beneficence is a concept that values the best interest of the client is more
important than that of a caregiver.
39. Taking measures to ensure that a client is not harmed is an example of:
A. Fidelity
B. Maleficence
C. Nonmaleficence
D. Justice
Correct answer: C
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40. A nurse is providing home health care services to a challenging client. The nurse
reassures the client that she always keeps her word and will not abandon him despite
his behavior. The nurse is demonstrating:
A. Justice
B. A judgmental attitude
C. Fidelity
D. Warranty
Correct answer: C
Rationale: Fidelity is demonstrated by keeping one's word and not abandoning clients.
41. What is not a valid statement about values formation? Values formation:
Correct answer: A
Correct answer: D
43. The nurse manages her time so that she can equitably distribute her attention to the
clients that are assigned to her. The nurse is demonstrating:
A. Ethics
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B. Accountability
C. Justice
D. Autonomy
Correct answer: C
Rationale: Nurses must distribute care justly, equitably, and fairly among those they
care for.
44. The mother of a child with complex medical needs asks that the nurse provide her
with details regarding the child’s condition. The nurse tells the truth and doesn’t
withhold information although it is painful for the mother to hear. The nurse’s action
is an example of:
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Telling the entire truth is veracity. Nurses must tell the truth even when it
may cause clients and families emotional pain.
45. What are the most common issues that are brought before hospital ethics
committees?
Correct answer: A
Rationale: The most common issues brought before hospital ethics committees include
concerns about the distribution of limited resources and end of life decisions.
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B. The American Nurses Association Standards of Care and Practice
C. The World Medicine Association Code of Ethics
D. All of the above
Correct answer: D
Rationale: All of the above organizations offer resources for resolving ethical dilemmas.
The American Medical Association Code of Ethics is an additional resource.
A. Contacting the facilities’ head of finance before the first meeting of an ethics
committee’s discussion
B. The use of ethical skills such as time management and delegation
C. A systematic method
D. An evaluation of staffing patterns throughout the facility
Correct answer: D
A. Statutory law
B. Administrative law
C. Civil law
D. Common Law
Correct answer: B
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49. Violations related to client confidentiality, malpractice, and negligence are classified
as :
A. Slander
B. Torts
C. Assault
D. Defamation
Correct answer: B
50. A nurse failed to provide the recognized standard of care. The client did not suffer any
harm as a result. The nurse is guilty of:
A. A tort
B. Negligence
C. Malpractice
D. An intentional tort
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Negligence is a nonintentional tort that occurs when a nurse fails to meet an
established standard of care.
51. For an act to be deemed malpractice all of the following must occur except:
Correct answer: C
Rationale: All of the above are components that must occur for a determination of
malpractice to be made except lack of client harm. An injury must occur.
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52. The nurse applies a Posey vest restraint to a wandering, confused client because he
has a history of recent falls. The nurse fails to obtain an order for the vest. The nurse
is:
A. committing an assault
B. Carrying out her duties according to established national Standards of Practice
C. guilty of false imprisonment
D. guilty of libel
Correct answer: C
53. A nineteen-year-old student comes into the college health center with a broken tooth
and split lip. The student states that her live-in partner struck her. The student is
embarrassed and doesn’t want anyone to know what happened. The nurse:
Correct answer: A
54. A client has signed a surgical consent. She is in the perioperative unit. As the nurse is
inserting the intravenous catheter, the client says: “I changed my mind. I do not want
to have the surgery.” What does the nurse reply to the client?
A. You are just nervous. I will give you some medicine to help you relax.
B. Everyone feels that way right before surgery. It’s a typical feeling.
C. What has made you change your mind now?
D. You have the right to refuse the surgery.
Correct answer: D
Rationale: Clients have the right to refuse any treatments and revoke consent at any
time.
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55. To provide informed consent, a client must:
Correct answer: D
Rationale: A client must be legally able to give consent without coercion, and provided
with information needed to decide to provide informed consent.
This concludes the section regarding Standards of Nursing. Take a break if you need one. When
you are ready, we will proceed to section 2, Delivery of Care. We will explore the care team,
prioritizing care, and medical records.
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1.2 DELIVERY OF CARE
1.2A THE CARE TEAM
56. Client care conferences are useful for:
Correct answer: C
57. A hospice client tells you that he feels guilty for some choices that he made in his life.
With the client's consent, you make a referral to the________________ as that person
is most likely to have the skills and training to help relieve the clients suffering.
Correct answer: C
Rationale: The Chaplin has extensive education and experience helping people cope
with emotions and spiritual distress.
58. Who is likely to be most knowledgeable about how to meet the complex needs of
clients who have severe complications from diabetes?
Correct answer: A
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Rationale: The person most likely to have in-depth knowledge of a condition within
their specialty is the clinical nurse specialist. Clinical nurse specialists are masters
prepared advanced practice nurses who have specialized training in a specific area of
practice. Practical and vocational nurses have less training than registered nurses.
Nursing supervisors often possess knowledge about a wide range of health conditions
rather than in-depth knowledge of a specialty. The charge nurse is likely to be very
knowledgeable but is also responsible for managing staff and care on the unit.
59. Which of the following tasks may the nurse delegate to the certified/licensed nursing
assistant?
A. Obtain vital signs 15 minutes after the nurse hung a unit of packed red blood cells.
B. Observe a client who has a history of CVA while the client eats
C. Increase the rate of flow of oxygen from 2 to 4 liters per minute via nasal cannula.
D. Change a dressing over a stage II decubitus
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Nursing assistants may observe clients while they are eating. They may not
perform the other tasks.
Correct answer: A
61. Roles of the registered nurse during interdisciplinary care conferences include all of
the following except:
A. client advocate
B. medical director
C. coordinator of care
D. collaborator
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Correct answer: B
Correct answer: C
63. Unlicensed assistive personnel may perform all of the following tasks except:
A. clerical duties
B. collecting urine samples
C. changing sterile dressings
D. obtaining vital signs
Correct answer: C
Rationale: Unlicensed assistive personnel, including nursing assistants and patient care
technicians, may perform clerical duties, collect specific laboratory samples, and take
vital signs.
Correct answer: D
Rationale: Only licensed personnel may assess clients. Unlicensed nursing personnel
may complete all of the other tasks.
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65. Which is not a valid statement about licensed practical or vocational nurses?
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Licensed practical or vocational nurses may perform sterile and nonsterile
procedures, including dressing changes.
A. nurse practitioners are independent practitioners, but physicians assistants are not
B. physicians assistants are independent practitioners however nurse practitioners are
not
C. physicians assistants and nurse practitioners are independent practitioners
D. neither physicians assistants or nurse practitioners are independent practitioners
Correct answer: A
67. All of the following are true statements about Doctors of Osteopathy (DOs) except:
Correct answer: D
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Osteopathy may order medications and tests. Doctors of Osteopathy may perform
surgery.
68. All of the following are true statements about a Doctor of Chiropractic Medicine
except:
Correct answer: A
69. The nurse is working with a woman who is a primigravida that has high blood
pressure. A low-sodium diet was ordered. Who should she contact to provide
extensive teaching about the low-sodium diet?
Correct answer: C
Rationale: While all of the healthcare workers, including the nurse, are knowledgeable
about low sodium diets, the expert is the dietitian who can provide the best education
for the woman.
70. A client has a limited range of motion, a gait disturbance, and weakness. The most
helpful consultation for the client is with a/an:
A. occupational therapist
B. recreational therapist
C. primary care provider
D. physical therapist
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Correct answer: D
Rationale: Physical therapists are licensed healthcare professionals who are specially
trained to address problems such as range of motion concerns, gait disturbances, and
weakness.
71. The nurse is working on a medical-surgical unit and cannot draw arterial blood gasses.
Who should she call to obtain the needed sample?
A. the pulmonologist
B. the occupational therapist
C. respiratory therapist
D. primary care physician
Correct answer: C
Rationale: Respiratory therapists know how to draw arterial blood gases and interpret
them.
1.2B LEADERSHIP
72. A laissez-faire style of leadership is most effective when:
Correct answer: D
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73. The most dominant traits of a transformational leader include:
A. autocratic decision-maker who rewards staff with monetary gains and punishes with
disciplinary measures
B. charisma, creativity, and innovation
C. visionary encourages others to work towards a common goal
D. sharing input and decision-making with staff members
Correct answer: B
74. Which of the following is not necessary for a hospital to achieve Magnet recognition?
A. centralized management
B. clinical pathways for nurses to advance
C. evidence-based practices
D. autonomous nursing structure
Correct answer: A
75. When management decisions are made by a limited number of individuals, such as a
Board of Directors, an organization is using this type of management structure:
A. autocratic
B. centralized
C. decentralized
D. country club style
Correct answer: B
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Rationale: Limited numbers of individuals make management decisions when a
centralized structure of management is used.
76. Staff and managers participate in decision-making when this organizational structure
is used:
A. case management
B. centralized management
C. decentralized management
D. modular nursing
Correct answer: C
77. Having the freedom to make decisions about care, and taking responsibility for those
decisions indicates:
A. authority
B. autonomy
C. accountability
D. accessibility
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Autonomy allows people make decisions and the responsibility of being held
accountable for those decisions.
78. Having legitimate power to make decisions and direct care within a specific role
defines:
A. accountability
B. authority
C. accessibility
D. autonomy
Correct answer: B
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Rationale: People with authority have legitimate power to give instructions and orders.
Intrinsic with authority is having the ability to make final decisions within the scope of a
specific role.
79. The five rights of delegation include all of the following except:
A. Right task
B. Right time
C. Right supervision
D. Right circumstance
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Right task, right supervision, and right circumstance are all aspects of the five
rights of delegation.
80. A registered nurse has just asked an unlicensed assistive personnel member of the
team to determine why an intravenous infusion pump is alarming. The nurse has
made an error of delegation regarding:
A. Right supervision
B. Right communication
C. Right circumstance
D. Right person
Correct answer: D
Rationale: The nurse made a mistake by delegating the wrong person to complete a
task. Unlicensed assistive personnel may not evaluate an intravenous pumps alarm.
81. The nurse advised her unit manager of an ongoing client care safety issue. The
manager told the nurse that she would look into the matter however he didn't. What
does the nurse do next?
Correct answer: D
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Rationale: Nurses must follow the chain of command to report concerns.
82. The person responsible 24 hours a day for making unit policies, supervising staff on a
particular unit, and evaluating the team on that unit is the:
A. a nursing supervisor
B. the charge nurse
C. unit manager
D. performance improvement nurse
Correct answer: C
Rationale: Unit managers create policies for that unit. They supervise and evaluate staff
on their particular unit. They have 24-hour responsibility for the unit.
83. The registered nurse assigns the licensed practical/vocational nurse the task of
suctioning oral secretions from a client’s mouth. What is the registered nurse doing?
A. asking the licensed practical nurse to perform a procedure that is not within her
scope of practice
B. delegating
C. demonstrating laissez-faire leadership
D. being democratic
Correct answer: B
84. The person responsible for ensuring safe staffing, making decisions during crises, and
overseeing personnel during a specific shift is the:
Correct answer: B
Rationale: The nursing supervisor is responsible for overseeing all aspects of care during
a particular shift. Nursing supervisors serve as resource people and administrators.
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85. A nurse manager has identified an ongoing problem within the unit. He asks for input
regarding solutions from all staff members who work on the unit. The staff members
provide information. However, the nurse manager makes the final decision about
what solution to use. This is an example of what type of leadership style?
A. autocratic
B. participative
C. problem-oriented
D. visionary
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Leaders who employ a participative style of management ask for input from
team members. However, they make final decisions.
86. The graduate nurse organizes tasks that she needs to complete on a worksheet. She
estimates how long it will take her to perform a complicated dressing change. She
anticipates that there may be interruptions and admissions throughout the day. What
is the nurse attempting to do?
Correct answer: A
87. The registered nurse is a unit manager in a skilled nursing facility. A licensed
practical/vocational nurse on the unit makes an error which results in injury to a
client. Which of the following is an accurate statement?
Correct answer: C
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Rationale: Both nurses and the facility are liable for the error. Malpractice claims may
be filed against all involved.
A. ensures that adequate numbers of staff are available to provide quality care
B. identifies the level of complexity of patient needs, health, and level of care required
C. defines how work assignments, authority, and responsibilities are structured
D. states that nurses are responsible for performing all aspects of client care
Correct answer: C
Rationale: The nursing care delivery model, which is also known as a care or patient
care delivery model or system, spells out how to work, responsibility, and authority are
structured. It identifies the roles of caregivers. Staffing ensures that adequate numbers
of staff are available to provide quality care. Patient acuity determines the level of
complexity of client needs, health, and level of care. Functional nursing states that
nurses are responsible for performing all aspects of client care.
89. Care that is individualized, and respectful of individual client preferences in needs and
is guided by the patient's values in all clinical decisions is called:
A. primary nursing
B. the partnership model
C. case management
D. patient-centered care
Correct answer: D
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90. A registered nurse working in a rehabilitation facility conducts all nursing assessments
and administers intravenous medications. The licensed practical or vocational nurse
on that same unit administers oral drugs and performs dressing changes. Nursing
assistive personnel bathe and turn the clients. What nursing care delivery model is
being used?
A. primary nursing
B. total patient care
C. team nursing
D. functional nursing
Correct answer: D
Rationale: Staff members perform tasks for all clients based on their level of training
when a functional nursing model is employed. A registered nurse assumes 24-hour
responsibility for clients care when the primary nursing model is used. Nurses using the
total patient care model provide all aspects of care for clients assigned to them during
their shift. Registered nurses following the team nursing model serve as team leaders to
small groups of workers who work together and provide care for a small group of
clients.
91. This modification of the primary nursing model pairs a registered nurse with a licensed
practical or vocational nurse or nursing assistant to provide care to a group of clients.
A. team nursing
B. the partnership model
C. clinical pathway
D. total patient care
Correct answer: B
Rationale: The partnership model is based on the primary nursing model. However it is
designed to use the registered nurses, skills more efficiently by partnering the registered
nurse with a licensed practical/vocational nurse or a nursing assistant. The healthcare
providers work together consistently to ensure continuity of care.
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92. Strategies used by the healthcare delivery system to reduce healthcare costs are
known as:
A. quality indicators
B. quality measures
C. case management
D. managed care
Correct answer: D
Rationale: Managed care is a general term that describes strategies used in healthcare
systems designed to reduce costs of care.
93. All of the following are emphasized by managed care systems except:
Correct answer: A
A. client-centered plan for establishing care and monitoring the client’s progress over a
specific period
B. procedure used to identify positive variances promptly
C. method for managing critically ill clients efficiently
D. policy that mandates medical providers be notified immediately in the presence of
critically abnormal laboratory values
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Critical pathways are plans for client care. They include monitoring progress
over a specific length of time.
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95. The process by which specific client outcomes are compared with expected outcomes
and critical pathways is called:
Correct answer: D
Rationale: Variation analysis is an ongoing process that caregivers use when comparing
specific client outcomes with expected outcomes as defined on a critical pathway.
96. When nursing assignments within a unit are divided up geographically, this is known
as:
E. transactional nursing
F. functional nursing
G. client focused care
H. modular nursing
Correct answer: D
Rationale: Modular nursing takes into account the geography of the nursing unit.
A. A smooth, timely, cohesive transition of a client from one level of care to another or
from one location to another
B. a multidisciplinary meeting to facilitate discharge plans
C. a means of obtaining reimbursement for uninsured clients
D. steps taken by a nurse to organize a political action committee to address issues
regarding accessibility and affordability of healthcare in the community
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Continuity of care is the timely cohesive transition of the client from one
level of care to another or from one location to another. Written and often verbal
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communication between the sending and receiving nurse is essential. Continuity of care
is required between transfers within a facility and post-discharge.
A. Registered nurses serve as primary nurses and clinical case managers. Billing and
coding responsibilities are done by nonclinical personnel
B. The registered nurse serves as case manager for a specific care unit with a group of
clients that have the same medical diagnosis or DRGs
C. Case management is a collaborative effort between a social worker, nursing case
manager, and utilization review team
D. The registered nurse serves as case manager for a group of clients that have the
same medical diagnosis or DRGs throughout an entire facility
Correct answer: C
99. When the nurse discusses client needs, pros and cons of treatments and alternatives
with the client the nurse are said to be:
Correct answer: B
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100. To advocate for client successfully, the nurse needs to:
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Healthcare providers must present factual information. They must not be
coercive or biased.
101. A 15-year-old overdosed on heroin. The teen is on a ventilator in the intensive care
unit. He has been declared brain-dead. The family wants to keep him on the ventilator
for another day with the hope that a miracle will occur. The nurse knows that this is
unlikely. The nurse advocates for the family by:
Correct answer: C
Rationale: The nurse advocate by acknowledging the family’s needs and discussing their
concerns and possible options with the nurse manager.
A. Individual clients
B. family members
C. groups of clients
D. all of the above
Correct answer: D
Rationale: Nurses may advocate for individual clients, family members, or groups of
clients.
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103. Where do nurses advocate for clients and health?
Correct answer: D
Rationale: Nurses advocate for individual clients and also for healthcare issues in a vast
array of settings. These can be one-on-one with clients, within healthcare organizations,
or on a global scale.
104. The nurse is working in the neonatal intensive care unit. He is providing care for an
infant that was born at 24 weeks of gestation. The child has multiple physical
abnormalities and is not expected to live. The child goes into cardiac arrest. What
does the nurse do?
A. Call the family and let them know that the child has died
B. begin cardiopulmonary resuscitation
C. notify the family and asked them what interventions they would like taken
D. notify the physician
Correct answer: B
105. The nurse is a case manager in a tertiary medical center. The client needs to go to a
skilled nursing facility for rehabilitation. He has Medicaid. A discharge order has been
written. The family would like the client to stay in the medical center for four more
days. The case manager:
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Correct answer: B
Rationale: While the case manager might like to accommodate the client and family, it
is not possible. The case manager has a primary responsibility to ensure that clients
receive services at the appropriate level of care or else reimbursement will not occur.
106. The use of critical pathways is mandated when this model of case management is
used:
Correct answer: C
Rationale: The case manager model requires the use of critical pathways.
A. SBAR
B. BATON
C. SOAP
D. IPASS
Correct answer: C
Rationale: All of the above are approved handoff report forms except for the SOAP.
Other accepted forms include the ISBAR and 5P’s.
108. All of the following are true statements about the Joint Commission on the
Accreditation of Healthcare Organization's position regarding the use of abbreviations
except:
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C. many abbreviations can be misinterpreted and potentially result in the client harm
D. abbreviations may not be used
Correct answer: D
Rationale: Healthcare organizations must not use abbreviations that are deemed
unacceptable. They are required to keep a list of unacceptable abbreviations.
Correct answer: A
A. reminds the physician that narcotic orders may not be changed via telephone orders
B. asks another nurse to listen to the call so that the order can be verified
C. reads the order back, clarifies any questions, and writes the prescription
D. reminds the physician that intravenous patient-controlled analgesic orders may not
be changed over the phone
Correct answer: C
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111. What information needs to be included and documented when the nurse is making a
telephone report in anticipation of a client being transferred to another unit within
the facility?
A. Information provided and received, and the names of the people on the call
B. fall risk, Braden scale, and diagnoses
C. level of elopement risk, and insurance information
D. date of birth, name, and when the last meal was eaten
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Nurses need to provide information about the client and receive information
as well about the planned discharge. Unresolved issues must be reported, and a plan
put in place to resolve them. The nurse needs to document that the call was made and
who he or she spoke to. The information provided by answers B, C, and D may be
relevant but not always necessary.
112. A client is being discharged from an urgent care center after treatment for a minor
upper respiratory infection. No follow-up appointment is needed unless the client’s
symptoms worsen. What is the nurse’s responsibility?
A. the nurse has no responsibility as the client was seen in an urgent care center
B. the nurse has no responsibility since no follow-up is needed
C. the nurse needs to provide discharge instructions and education
D. the nurse needs to ensure that the physician, physician's assistant, or nurse
practitioner offers a prescription for required medication
Correct answer: C
Rationale: The nurse needs to provide discharge instructions and education to the
client. The instructions need to be specific and related to the diagnosis. The client needs
to be provided with information regarding what to do if signs and symptoms worsen
and more care is required.
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113. When does discharge planning begin if a client is hospitalized?
Correct answer: C
Correct answer: D
A. Sigmund Freud
B. Abraham Maslow
C. Eric Erickson
D. Martha Rogers
Correct answer: B
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116. Which client needs to be cared for first?
Correct answer: C
Rationale: Use ABC's-airway, breathing, and circulation as your guide to provide care.
The man who has difficulty breathing is the highest priority.
117. A client comes into a clinic doubled over with abdominal pain. What is the first step
that you should take?
Correct answer: C
Rationale: Perform an assessment first when prioritizing care needs if one has not
already been done.
118. The client is in cardiac arrest. What is your guideline for providing care?
Correct answer: D
119. A disaster has occurred. The client identified as needing emergent priority one care is:
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B. A woman with a gunshot wound to her thumb
C. A comatose toddler who has massive open crush wounds to the head and chest and
Cheyne- Stokes respirations.
D. A seventy-year-old man who sustained chemical burns to the eyes
Correct answer: D
Rationale: Chemical burns to the eye must be treated immediately. The child who with
the open fracture and the woman with the gunshot wound is of urgent priority two
need. The toddler is unlikely to survive and is a low priority.
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Essential steps for effective time management include allowing time to plan
and prioritize. It is essential to perform the highest priority tasks first. Effective time
managers reprioritize depending on tasks and changes that occur throughout the day.
Correct answer: D
Rationale: When setting priorities, individual client needs, as well as the acuity of all
clients, must be considered.
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122. Clients who have high-priority needs include:
Correct answer: D
Rationale: Clients with immediate life-threatening health issues are the highest priority.
Clients who are in immediate physical danger are also of the highest priority.
123. Clients who are rated as having the second highest level of priority for care include all
of the following except:
Correct answer: D
Rationale: Clients who have mental status changes, are unable to urinate, untreated
medical problems, or have a moderate risk of injury due to safety or security issues are
considered to be the second highest level of priority.
Correct answer: D
Rationale: All of the clients are a low priority except the wandering client. She is in
danger of harm due to safety concerns and mental status changes. The wandering client
is considered mid-level in need.
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125. Which client should be cared for first?
Correct answer: A
Rationale: The client having seizures is the highest priority due to the risk of airway
obstruction.
126. A team nursing model is being used to provide care. The team is comprised of a
registered nurse, licensed vocational nurse, and certified nursing assistant. Which
client should be assigned to the certified nursing assistant for care?
Correct answer: A
Rationale: The certified nursing assistant should be assigned the stable client who has a
chronic health concern. The toddler being evaluated for autism is the correct choice.
127. When determining care needs and delegating assignments, the nurse considers all of
the following except:
A. available resources
B. staff qualifications
C. funding sources
D. time needed to perform tasks
Correct answer: C
Rationale: While prioritizing care and delegating assignments, nurses consider what
resources are available, staff qualifications, and how long it takes to perform needed
tasks.
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128. What should the nurse do first?
Correct answer: B
A. will complete all tasks in the order he planned when he received an assignment at
the beginning of the shift
B. must be flexible because priorities may be impacted by admissions, changes in client
acuity, and staffing changes
C. will spend an equal amount of time caring for each client assigned to him
D. will document all care at the end of his shift
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Assessing client needs, and prioritizing care is an ongoing process. The nurse
must be flexible as client needs and resources change.
130. The nurse is administering blood. Which reaction is the most severe and needs
attention first?
E. fever
F. swelling of the face and neck
G. generalized itching
H. infiltration at the intravenous site
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Swelling of the neck and face may lead to airway obstruction. Immediate
steps must be taken.
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131. A 45-year-old man has crushing chest pain and fever. The following interventions have
been ordered stat. Nitroglycerin 0.4 mg sublingually, chest x-ray, troponin level,
Tylenol 650 mg PO. What intervention is performed or administered first?
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Nitroglycerin dilates the coronary blood vessels, improves circulation to the
heart, and prevents damage to cardiac tissues as it relieves pain.
132. Which of the following clients should be seen first in the emergency department?
Correct answer: C
Rationale: The child who is having an asthma attack is the highest priority due to
potential airway and breathing concerns.
133. Which client should be cared for by the registered nurse if the team consists of a
registered nurse, a licensed practical nurse, and a nursing assistant?
A. a client who has chronic back pain who is being treated with oral medication and
bedrest
B. a woman who had a hysterectomy three days ago
C. a man who sustained multiple injuries due to a workplace accident
D. an eight-year-old who has a fractured femur which was repaired two days ago
Correct answer: C
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Rationale: The registered nurse cares for the man who sustained multiple injuries due
to a workplace accident as there is a potential for many body systems to be impacted
and the injuries occurred that day.
134. Which task should be delegated to the licensed practical or vocational nurse when a
registered nurse and licensed practical nurse are paired?
Correct answer: C
Rationale: Licensed practical nurses can change sterile dressings. They may not teach,
administer IV push or medications. Most facilities do not allow licensed
practical/vocational nurses to administer blood products. A registered nurse should
administer blood when possible even in facilities that allow licensed practical/vocational
nurses to give blood.
135. Which need must be addressed first when all of the following are true about a client?
Correct answer: A
136. A medical-surgical nurse floats to the maternity unit. The charge nurse should assign
the following client(s) to the medical-surgical nurse:
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Correct answer: C
Rationale: The medical-surgical nurse should be assigned to the most stable patient(s).
In this case, it is the mother/ baby pair.
137. The 12-year-old is taken to surgery from the emergency room for repair of a ruptured
appendix. The boy is expected to be discharged within 48 hours. When should
discharge planning preparations begin?
A. on admission
B. after the surgery is performed
C. within 24 hours after the surgery
D. on the day of discharge as his follow-up is limited to just a post-op visit with the
surgeon
Correct answer: A
138. A 96-year-old female is admitted to a rehabilitation facility for care following a total
hip replacement. The woman has multiple comorbidities that make it difficult to
predict how long she will be in the facility and where she will reside after discharge. It
is unknown whether she will need placement in a long-term care facility, assisted-
living home, or live in her son's house with home health care services. When should
discharge planning services begin?
A. on admission
B. when she starts to stabilize
C. when the son decides where she will reside post discharge
D. one week before her anticipated discharge date
Correct answer: A
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139. A child is being discharged from the emergency department following treatment for
an asthma attack. Which of the following is the most crucial information that the
nurse should provide to the parents?
A. How to recognize signs and symptoms of an asthma attack, including guidelines for
obtaining care
B. The child should be encouraged to drink plenty of fluids
C. The child should remain home from school for two days
D. The family must provide the child with emotional support should another asthma
attack occur
Correct answer: A
Rationale: It is essential that the parents be able to recognize signs and symptoms of an
asthma attack. They need to know what signs indicate the need for more care including
instructions about seeking emergency assistance. The other interventions are primarily
geared towards comfort which is a lower priority than obtaining safe and effective care
promptly.
140. The nurse is evaluating fall risk among her clients. Which client has the lowest risk of
falling?
A. The 25-year-old male who recently had back surgery and is using morphine via
patient-controlled analgesia
B. an 84-year-old female who just had a total hip replacement
C. a 12-year-old girl who is hospitalized for pneumonia
D. a 72-year-old male with glaucoma
Correct answer: C
Rationale: Clients most at risk for falling have cognitive or sensory impairments. Specific
conditions, such as muscle weakness or Parkinson's disease increase the risk of falls
occurring. Clients who take narcotics or medications which may cause drowsiness have
an elevated risk of falling.
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141. The nurse is evaluating her clients’ risk for skin breakdown. All of the following
increase the risk of skin breakdown except:
A. advanced age
B. sex
C. decreased level of serum albumin
D. shearing of skin during position changes
Correct answer: B
Rationale: advanced age, low levels of albumin, and shearing of skin all contribute to
skin breakdown.
142. The nurse is providing education to a client who has a diagnosis of thrombophlebitis in
the left leg. The client is being discharged home with a prescription for warfarin. What
is the most vital information to provide to the client?
Correct answer: B
Rationale: The most crucial information is to seek immediate medical attention should
shortness of breath or chest pain develop. These can be signs of a potentially life-
threatening pulmonary embolism. The other aspects of care are essential but not as
time sensitive.
143. The nurse is providing instructions to family members for visiting a client who has an
infection caused by Clostridium difficile. What is most important to tell the family
members about isolation precautions?
Correct answer: B
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Rationale: Comprehensive teaching about the use of personal protective equipment
and isolation precautions includes all four solutions. However, the most important
lesson is that soap and water should be used to wash hands as not doing so is likely to
result in the spread of infection.
1.2F DOCUMENTATION
144. You are charting on paper and make a mistake. What should you do?
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Draw a single line through the error, initial, and date it. Do not erase or cover
it up. The supervisor does not need to be notified nor does an incident report need to
be created.
Correct answer: A
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146. Documentation standards required by the Joint Commission on the Accreditation of
Healthcare Organizations include:
Correct answer: D
A. I will log out, and you can use this computer for a moment.
B. Tell me your password, and I will record the information for you.
C. Tell me the patient's name and I will chart the observation for you.
D. Just chart the information as a late entry tomorrow.
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Only the person making an observation may chart the observation. It is a
security violation to share passwords. Documentation must be completed promptly.
Correct answer: D
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Rationale: Acceptable patient identifiers include name and date of birth.
Correct answer: B
Correct answer: C
Rationale: Barcodes that contain unique patient identifiers are used to prevent
medication, treatment, and procedural errors which occur as a result of
misidentification. Barcodes are used to keep track of supplies and equipment and
ensure that related bills are accurate.
A. To improve the time management abilities of staff members so that they can
increase the number of clients that they provide care to
B. decreased liability within a healthcare organization
C. to improve care outcomes, enhance client safety, improve efficiency, reduce costs
and liability
D. To comply with regulations mandated by the National Institutes of Health.
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Correct answer: C
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Core measures are standardized quality indicators. The Joint Commission on
the Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations (JCAHO) identifies them. Core measures
address specific populations, diseases, and organizational units, such as emergency
departments.
153. Tools which decrease organizational liability and the likelihood of lawsuits include:
Correct answer: C
Rationale: Risk assessments for falls and skin breakdown are used to decrease
organizational liability. The other answers may help reduce risk. However, they are not
specific tools.
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154. Performance improvement activities are mandated by:
Correct answer: D
Correct answer: C
156. Quality improvement activities should focus on all of the following areas except:
Correct answer: C
Rationale: Effective quality improvement activities should focus on areas which are
high-risk for creating injury to clients, affect many people, occur often, and are costly.
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157. For healthcare organizations to have sufficient performance improvement activities in
place they must have:
Correct answer: B
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Outcome measures are used to study and assess the outcomes of client care.
Two examples of outcome measures include screenings to identify clients who are at-
risk for skin breakdown and infection rates within the facility.
It’s time to take a break if you need one. This concludes our delivery of care module. When
you're ready, we will move on to our third module.
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1.3 SAFETY
In this section on safety, we will review strategies for keeping clients and staff safe and free of
injury. We will consider environmental safety and hazards including biomedical waste and
infectious materials. Equipment safety, ergonomics, and restraints will be discussed. We will
review emergency response plans and security. Let’s start by exploring environmental safety.
A. Six months
B. Eighteen months
C. Three years
D. Six years
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Screening for lead poisoning should begin at 18 months for most children.
Repeat screenings should occur at 24, 30, and 36 months.
A. accidental poisoning
B. childhood leukemias and other cancers
C. meningitis
D. accidents
Correct answer: D
Rationale: Accidents are the primary cause of death among school-age children.
161. The group of people most likely to be injured from falls is:
A. infants
B. teens
C. young adults
D. older adults
Correct answer: D
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Rationale: Falls are the leading cause of injury among older adults.
162. When anticipating home safety requirements of a frail older adult who is dialysis
dependent the nurse should:
Correct answer: B
Rationale: The nurse needs to instruct the client and family about an emergency
evacuation plan, including plans to go to an emergency evacuation shelter should the
need arise. Meals on Wheels may be helpful for the client, but it is not a safety issue.
Nothing indicates that the medications should be kept out of the adult’s reach.
163. When evaluating a home for safety, which of the following commonly needs to be
assessed?
Correct answer: D
Rationale: All of the above need to be assessed. The home safety assessment needs to
be customized based on age and needs of the client and resources available.
164. Common security risks in the healthcare setting include all of the following except:
Correct answer: A
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Rationale: Commonly occurring security risks in healthcare facilities include the
presence of violent people in the healthcare setting, infant abduction, client elopement,
and computer data breaches.
165. While making rounds, the nurse discovers a trashcan on fire in a client’s room. What
are the best actions that the nurse can take, and in the correct order?
A. Extinguish the fire, remove the client from the room, and close the door.
B. Obtain a fire extinguisher, pull the pin on the fire extinguisher, aim the fire
extinguisher at the base of the fire, squeeze the trigger, and sweep the fire
extinguisher contents back-and-forth at the base of the flame.
C. Remove the patient from the room, activate the alarm and alert other staff
members, close doors to confine or contain the fire, extinguish the fire if it's safe to
do so.
D. Cover the trashcan with a wet pillow, remove the patient, sound the alarm, evacuate
patients.
Correct answer: C
Rationale: Use the word RACE to remind you of what to do in case of fire. Remove the
client from the location of the fire. Activate the alarm and alert others. Contain the fire
by closing doors. Extinguish the fire only if it is safe to do so.
166. What is the first thing that you should do when confronted by an active shooter?
Correct answer: D
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167. A three-year-old child consumed an unknown number of prenatal multivitamins.
What should you do before performing an intervention?
A. Induce vomiting
B. Call the Poison Control Center
C. Reassure the parents that vitamins are harmless except that the child might
experience gastrointestinal distress.
D. Prepare for gastric lavage
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Contact the Poison Control Center before attempting interventions. Inducing
vomiting or performing gastric lavage can be harmful in the presence of specific poisons.
Vitamins can be dangerous when not taken correctly.
168. Organisms which cause botulism, anthrax, and smallpox may be used for:
Correct answer: B
Rationale: The use of botulinum toxin, anthrax, and the organism which causes
smallpox to create harm is called bioterrorism.
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Correct answer: D
Rationale: Avoid smoking and open flames when oxygen is in use. It is essential to be
aware of the location of oxygen tubing to avoid falls.
Correct answer: C
171. To facilitate a safe transfer of a client from the stretcher to bed, you:
Correct answer: B
172. While conducting a home evaluation for a three-year-old client, the nurse notices
dangling Venetian blind cords and plastic grocery bags on the floor. The nurse
identifies the following nursing diagnosis:
Correct answer: B
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1.3C HAZARDOUS AND INFECTIOUS MATERIALS MANAGEMENT
173. Where is information about hazardous materials located?
Correct answer: A
A. Soiled diapers
B. Used hypodermic needles
C. Packaged chemotherapy drugs
D. Used suction tubing
Correct answer: C
Rationale: Diapers, used hypodermic needles, and used suction tubing may contain
blood and body fluids which are biohazardous materials. Chemotherapy drugs can be
hazardous, but they are not considered biohazardous waste as they do not originate
from blood and body fluids.
175. Visitors to clients who are receiving brachytherapy, also known as internal radiation
therapy, are advised that:
Correct answer: C
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Rationale: Women who are pregnant should not visit or care for clients receiving
brachytherapy due to the risk of radiation exposure.
176. Using disposable equipment, hand washing, needleless infusion systems, and red
sharps containers reduce the risk of:
A. exposure to radiation
B. exposure to biohazardous waste
C. needle stick injuries
D. combustion of hazardous materials
Correct answer: B
177. Prohibiting smoking, avoiding the use of acetone containing materials, and wearing
cotton clothing help reduce:
A. Air pollution
B. Water pollution
C. The risk of injury when oxygen is in use
D. The risk of injury due to toxins
Correct answer: C
Rationale: Avoiding open flames and sparks promote the safe use of oxygen. Cotton
fabric is less likely to cause static than other kinds of cloth. Acetone is very flammable.
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Correct answer: C
Rationale: Keep the caller on the telephone for as long as possible if you receive a bomb
threat by phone. Note qualities about the client’s words, voice, and background sounds.
Simultaneously notify a co-worker who can then take required next steps.
179. What type of fire extinguisher may be used on an electrical fire or a fire that began in
a client’s bed?
A. A
B. B
C. C
D. ABC
Correct answer: D
A. train crash
B. terrorist attack
C. staffing crisis due to absenteeism from influenza
D. Tornado or hurricane
Correct answer: C
Rationale: External disasters arise outside of a facility. They may be due to weather,
accidents, fire or terrorism. External disasters may result in mass casualties requiring
treatment.
A. An adult male with a fractured humorous and a wound that is spurting blood from
the femur
B. A child who has loose stools, vomiting, and abdominal pain
C. A 26-year-old primigravida who went in to labor 2 hours ago
D. An older adult who is confused and wandering around the waiting room
Correct answer: A
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Rationale: The spurting wound requires immediate attention. Use airway, breathing,
and circulation, the ABCs, as a guideline when triaging clients.
182. The nurse is working in a group home for medically fragile developmentally disabled
clients. There is a power outage due to an ice storm. In order to ensure quality care,
the nurse needs to do all of the following except:
Correct answer: A
Rationale: During power outages, nurses must still provide quality care. This may
require creativity. Nurses should review policies and procedures in advance. They may
need to use alternative ways to record care, monitor patients, and provide nurse call
tools. Additional staff may be helpful.
A. A drug used for discipline or management of behaviors rather than for medical
treatment.
B. Protective devices that customarily and traditionally are used to limited movement
during a particular treatment.
C. Using sitters and distraction techniques to keep confused client’s safe.
D. A physical device or medication which restricts the client’s freedom. If a physical
device, it cannot be easily removed by the client.
Correct answer: D
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184. Select the best answer to the following question. Monitoring a client who is restrained
requires evaluating:
A. physical status
B. dignity and emotional state
C. the need for restraints, correct application, and use of the restraint
D. all of the above
Correct answer: D
185. The client is non-weight bearing, weak, and paralyzed. What will you use to transfer
the patient safely from bed to chair?
A. slide board
B. mechanical lift
C. gait belt
D. rolling walker
Correct answer: B
Rationale: The only safe tool to use for this client is a mechanical lift.
A. ABC
B. PASS
C. RACE
D. stop, drop, and roll
Correct answer: B
Rationale: PASS stands for: Pull the safety pin, Aim low. Squeeze the handle. Sweep
from side to side at the base of the fire until it is out.
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187. Steps which may be implemented to reduce falls include all of the following except:
A. employing a sitter
B. encouraging the use of bedroom slippers
C. using chair and bed alarms
D. placing the client in a place where he or she can be seen easily such as near a nurse’s
station
Correct answer: B
Rationale: All of the above are interventions that may be used to prevent falls except
encouraging the use of bathroom slippers. Bathroom slippers are often loose fitting and
contribute to falls. Well-fitting rubber-soled shoes or non-skid footwear is preferable.
A. an unforeseen event
B. a near miss that has the potential for patient harm
C. an assessment that determines client needs and identifies safety hazards
D. a group of activities that healthcare organization uses to reduce legal liability
Correct answer: A
A. An event, accident or near miss that leads to or has the potential to lead to client
harm
B. Incidents that result in death or severe injury to a client
C. A process used to identify flaws in processes within an organization
D. A deliberate action which results in the harm of a client
Correct answer: A
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Rationale: A sentinel event is the occurrence of an accident, incident, or near miss that
leads to or potentially leads to client harm.
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Root cause analysis is a process that evaluates why sentinel events occur. It
emphasizes why they happened rather than who is at fault. This is done to identify
problems and prevent future issues.
191. A nurse fails to meet the standard of care while providing services to a patient. What
is the nurse guilty of?
A. Slander
B. Negligence
C. Libel
D. Assault
Correct answer: B
Rationale: When a healthcare provider fails to meet the standard of care, this is known
as negligence. Writing untruths that damage a person's reputation is called libel. Making
false verbal statements that hurts a person’s reputation is called slander. Assault is a
deliberate unsuccessful attempt to perform bodily harm to another individual.
192. The client developed anaphylaxis after the first dose of the new medication. What
type of event is this?
A. malpractice
B. medical error
C. adverse event
D. medical mistake
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Correct answer: C
193. The client was found unharmed sitting on the floor beside her bed in the healthcare
facility. She stated that she tripped and fell. Which of the following is an example of
the documentation the nurse should provide?
A. “Client found sitting on the floor. Incident report made out.” This is documented in
the client’s chart
B. “Client fell” is documented in the client's chart. An incident report is completed but
not noted in the client's chart.
C. “Client found sitting on the floor” documented in the chart. An incident report is
completed but not noted in the client’s chart.
D. “Client states she fell. Incident report made out.” This is documented in the client's
chart.
Correct answer: C
Rationale: The nurse should chart what he sees. He should make out an incident report
but not record that he made out an incident report in the client's chart.
194. A facility limited the frequency that disposable diapers could be used as accost saving
measure. Clients had increases in redness of their perineal areas as a result. What type
of variance is this?
A. Practitioner
B. Client
C. Patient
D. System
Correct answer: D
Rationale: System variances arise when irregularities in care and service are present.
They may be due to faulty policies, inadequate education of staff or lack of equipment
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and tools needed to provide optimal care. System variances are also known as
institutional variances.
1.3G ERGONOMICS
195. While lifting, how should the legs and feet be positioned?
A. With the left foot in front of the right if the person doing the lifting is right handed
B. Wide apart
C. The feet should be 12 inches apart
D. With the right foot in front of the left if the person doing the lifting is right handed
Correct answer: B
Rationale: While lifting stand with a wide stance to avoid injury and improve balance.
Correct answer: A
Rationale: When possible, use a pull or draw sheet or draw pad when moving clients up
in bed. It is safer, efficient, and reduces shear on the client’s skin.
197. The correct way to turn a client who has a sustained a fractured spine is by employing
a procedure known as:
Correct answer: C
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Rationale: Roll the entire body while keeping the spine and extremities aligned. The
procedure is called log rolling. This enhances comfort and prevents client injury.
198. What is the best technique to use while ambulating a client who has a left sided
weakness?
A. Use a gait belt. Keep your hand on the gait belt at all times. Walk slightly behind the
client’s left side.
B. Use a gait belt. Keep your hand on the gait belt at all times. Walk slightly behind the
client’s right side.
C. Walk slightly behind the client’s right side. Only use a gait belt if the client is large or
unsteady.
D. Use a gait belt if the client agrees. Walk directly behind the client.
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Use a gait belt. Position yourself where you can support the client best
should he or she start to fall or lose balance.
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Repetitive stress injuries create pain, stiffness, and muscle cramps due to
overuse of muscles. Nerve and muscle pain results.
200. Which of the following activities helps to prevent injury to healthcare providers when
they are transferring clients from chair to bed?
Correct answer: B
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Rationale: Pivoting the feet in the direction of the move is essential. Twisting can cause
injuries. Back supporting devices can be useful. However, proper body mechanics must
be consistently employed to prevent injury. Use large muscles, such as those in the arms
and legs, to lift; not the muscles in the back.
Take a break if you need to, and then we will proceed to infection control.
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1.4 INFECTION CONTROL
In this section, we will review hygiene, standard precautions, and isolation.
1.4A HYGIENE
201. A client’s level of hygiene may be affected by:
A. cultural values
B. energy levels
C. environmental factors, such as room temperature and accessibility to hot water
D. all of the above
Correct answer: D
202. What nursing theorist discussed the level of care clients need to perform activities of
daily living, such as bathing?
A. Florence Nightingale
B. Dorothea Orem
C. Margaret Rogers
D. Jean Watson
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Dorothea Orem's Self-care Theory discusses client needs relating to the level
of assistance needed to perform activities of daily living.
203. Bathing:
Correct answer: D
Rationale: Bathing improves client comfort and circulation. It removes sweat, thereby
reducing odors. Bathing helps rid the body of exfoliated skin, microorganisms, and dirt.
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204. What body structure provides the first level of defense against infection?
Correct answer: B
Rationale: The skin provides the body's first level of defense. The other body structures
are supportive but not primary.
205. A client needs a partial bed bath. What does the nurse expect to assist the client with?
Correct answer: D
Rationale: Clients who require partial bed baths can perform some tasks related to
bathing. They may need assistance getting supplies set up or bathing body parts that
they cannot reach, such as the feet or back.
A. 95°F
B. 100°F
C. 110°F
D. 120°F
Correct answer: C
Rationale: Water used for bathing needs to be kept at a temperature below 110°F to
prevent injury.
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207. Clients most at risk for burns while bathing due to scalds include those with:
A. hypertension
B. diabetes
C. COPD
D. Lyme disease
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Clients who have diabetes may have nerve damage and be unable to assess
water temperature accurately. They are therefore at risk for burns.
208. The unlicensed assistive personnel member of the team advises the nurse that the
client wants to take a shower. The client has generalized chronic weakness due to
advanced age. What does the nurse recommend that the unlicensed assistive
personnel member do to ensure client safety?
Correct answer: C
Rationale: The client’s desire to have a shower can be respected and carried out safely
by using a shower chair. It is not the unlicensed assistive personnel's responsibility to
install grab bars. A non-skid mat can be helpful for fall prevention, but the shower chair
is essential for this client.
A. wash the entire body from head to toe and then dry the person's body
B. begin at the head and work downwards
C. wash the face and hands first and then do the back using soap and tepid water
D. keep all body parts covered below the head while washing with plain water
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Start at the top of the body and work downwards. Begin by cleaning around
the eyes and then the rest of the face. Use soap and warm water.
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210. An immobile, bedbound client wants her hair washed. What does the nurse say to the
client?
A. I'm sorry, the best I can do is wash your hair with a wet washcloth
B. I can use a hair washing tray, dry shampoo, or specially designed shampoo to wash
your hair
C. I am unable to wash your hair
D. you will have to contact a family member or hairdresser to wash your hair
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Clients need to have their hair cleaned for physical and emotional comfort.
Many tools are available to make hair washing possible.
A. Use a gloved finger and reach between the denture and upper palate to break the
seal between the pallet and denture
B. apply firm pressure to each side of the denture and pull
C. wiggle the denture from side to side using a gloved hand
D. apply rapid, firm, downward pressure to the front of the denture
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Well-fitting dentures create a relatively airtight seal between the denture
and the upper palate. The easiest way to break the seal is to reach around to one side of
the denture and insert a finger between the denture and palate. The denture can easily
be removed once the seal is broken.
A. warm
B. moist
C. comprised of mucosal tissue
D. A and B are correct
Correct answer: D
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Rationale: Bacteria multiply quickly in the perineal area because it is frequently warm
and wet. Parts of the perineal area are comprised of mucosal tissue; however other
areas are covered with skin.
1.4 B. PRECAUTIONS
213. A client has died. Standard precautions were used for client care before his death.
While providing postmortem care for the client, the healthcare provider:
Correct answer: A
214. Mechanisms make organisms more resistant to antibiotics include all of the following
except:
Correct answer: D
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215. The most frequent cause of pneumonia is infection with:
A. Streptococcus pneumonia
B. group B streptococci
C. vancomycin-resistant enterococci
D. Klebsiella pneumonia
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Streptococcus pneumonia is the most common type. It is the leading cause of
life-threatening illness among children worldwide. In addition to pneumonia,
Streptococcus pneumonia causes septicemia, ear, and sinus infections.
Correct answer: A
Correct answer: C
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218. People who have tuberculosis and are resistant to three or more drugs that are used
to treat the disease are said to have:
Correct answer: D
Rationale: People with tuberculosis which is resistant to three or more drugs known to
treat the disease are said to have extensively drug-resistant tuberculosis. It is rare.
219. What kind of precautions are used when caring for someone who has tuberculosis?
A. respiratory
B. airborne
C. contact
D. airborne and contact
Correct answer: D
Rationale: Airborne and contact precautions are utilized when care is provided for
clients who have tuberculosis.
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Friction is responsible for reducing the presence of microorganisms and dirt
more than the use of antibacterial soaps or hot water.
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221. Which of the following is not true when caring for a client with a Clostridium difficile
(C-Diff) infection?
A. the client is likely to have nausea, abdominal pain, and profuse diarrhea
B. waterless hand cleaner is preferable to handwashing with soap and water
C. clients are at risk for nutritional deficits and fluid and electrolyte imbalances
D. the infection can be fatal
Correct answer: B
A. standard
B. protective/reverse
C. contact
D. airborne
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Reverse or protective isolation precautions are used when clients are
immunosuppressed. These precautions are sometimes referred to as neutropenic
precautions.
223. What type of precautions are used while treating a client who is hospitalized with
influenza?
A. airborne
B. standard
C. droplet
D. contact
Correct answer: C
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224. What personal protective equipment and precautionary measures are used when
standard precautions are in place?
Correct answer: C
1.4C ASEPSIS
225. Inflammation is:
Correct answer: A
226. When microorganisms from outside of the body infect an individual and cause
disease, this is known as:
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Correct answer: C
Rationale: Exogenous infections result from microorganisms which are not normally
found within a person's flora or body.
227. Disinfection:
Correct answer: D
228. The client is being treated with multiple antibiotics. She has oral thrush. What type of
infection is the thrush?
A. viral
B. exogenous
C. endogenous
D. bacterial
Correct answer: C
Correct answer: B
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230. The nurse is assisting with a sterile procedure. Using sterile gloves, the nurse holds a
sterile object below his waist. What is happening?
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Objects held below the waist or out of the field of vision are not considered
sterile.
231. The time it takes from exposure to a microorganism to the onset of symptoms is
called:
Correct answer: B
232. When organisms replicate inside the body without causing signs and symptoms of
infection this is known as:
A. transmission
B. colonization
C. creating a reservoir
D. an infectious disease
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Colonization occurs when microorganisms multiply inside the body without
causing signs and symptoms of illness.
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233. What creates bactericidal actions?
Correct answer: D
A. droplets
B. vehicles
C. vectors
D. virulence
Correct answer: D
A. systemic
B. localized
C. autoimmune
D. community acquired
Correct answer: A
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1.4D PERIOPERATIVE CARE
236. What type of surgery is optional and not always needed for health?
A. emergency
B. ablative
C. elective
D. major
Correct answer: C
237. A client has severe frostbite of the left great toe. The toe is being removed surgically.
What kind of surgery is this?
A. cosmetic
B. restorative
C. constructive
D. ablative
Correct answer: D
Rationale: When a damaged or diseased body part is excised or surgically removed that
procedure is called ablative surgery.
238. A client has a tumor pressing on nerves. He suffers from a high level of pain due to the
tumor. A surgical procedure is done to relieve his symptoms, but not cure the
problem. What kind of surgery is done?
A. diagnostic
B. restorative
C. minor
D. palliative
Correct answer: D
Rationale: Palliative surgery is done to enhance comfort and relieve symptoms. It is not
curative.
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239. When clients have a diagnosis of obstructive sleep apnea receive opioids and general
anesthesia they have an increased risk of developing:
Correct answer: C
Rationale: Clients with a diagnosis of obstructive sleep apnea are at risk for airway
obstruction and decreases in oxygen saturation levels when they receive opioids.
240. Individuals who abuse alcohol and other substances are at risk for developing
complications during and after surgery. Risks of developing all of the following
complications are elevated among these individuals except:
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Alcohol and substance abuse may result in poor wound healing secondary to
nutritional deficits. Adverse reactions and cross-tolerance to anesthetic agents may
occur.
241. Coagulation studies, including prothrombin time (PT), the international normalized
ratio (INR) and activated partial thromboplastin time (APTT) are commonly performed
before surgical procedures to evaluate potential risks. What do the tests provide
information about?
Correct answer: B
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Rationale: Coagulation studies are done to evaluate clients’ risks for developing blood
clots and abnormal bleeding.
242. The nurse is teaching a client about a planned surgery, the need for the procedure,
anticipated benefits, potential risks, and alternatives to the operation. The nurse is:
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Informed surgical consent requires that clients be provided with education
about the planned procedure, indications for the surgery, and potential risks and
benefits. Clients must be given information about alternatives to the surgical procedure.
Correct answer: C
Rationale: General anesthesia is administered over three phases. The phases are
induction, maintenance, and emergent.
244. A surgeon is concerned that an accident victim may lose a large volume of blood
during surgery. What nursing diagnosis is the highest priority for this client during
operation?
Correct answer: B
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Rationale: The client is at risk for developing a fluid volume deficit related to blood loss.
The risk for fluid volume deficit during surgery is a higher priority than the other risks.
The risk for trauma is irrelevant.
245. During surgery, a client is noted to be tachypnea and tachycardic. His blood pressure is
fluctuating. The cardiac monitor shows he is having multiple premature ventricular
contractions, or PVCs. He is determined to be hypercarbic. The client has circumoral
cyanosis, and his extremities are mottling. His muscles are rigid. He is most likely
experiencing complications from:
Correct answer: B
246. What type of anesthesia is used when a decreased level of consciousness, but not
total anesthesia, is needed?
A. general anesthesia
B. conscious sedation
C. local anesthesia
D. regional anesthesia
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Conscious sedation is used when a decreased level of consciousness, but not
deep anesthesia, is needed. Conscious sedation is frequently used for short procedures.
This concludes Part 1, the Safe and Effective Care Environment. When you are ready, we will
begin with part two of the review.
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PART 2 HEALTH PROMOTION AND MAINTENANCE
Correct answer: D
Rationale: Normal pulse rates for infants ranges from 120 to 160 beats per minute.
248. What do you measure when you are determining a pulse deficit?
A. differences in pulse rates of the radial pulses of the left and right arms
B. differences in pulse rates between apical and radial pulses
C. the difference between systolic and diastolic blood pressures
D. the difference in pulse rate at rest compared with during activity
Correct answer: B
Rationale: To obtain a pulse deficit, subtract the radial pulse rate from the apical pulse
rate. A pulse deficit occurs when contractions of the heart are ineffective.
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D. prolonged, sonorous, labored
Correct answer: C
A. percussion
B. auscultation
C. inspection
D. reflection
Correct answer: D
251. When a nurse recognizes patterns within collected data, compares the information
with standards, and comes to a conclusion regarding a client’s response to a health
problem, this is known as:
Correct answer: C
Rationale: Data analysis involves recognizing trends and patterns within collected
information. The trends are compared with standards, and a conclusion is reached
regarding a client’s response to a health concern.
252. All of the following are examples of Gordon's 11 functional health patterns except:
A. value-belief system
B. nutritional-metabolic pattern
C. sexuality-relationship pattern
D. elimination pattern
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Correct answer: C
Rationale: Gordon pairs sexuality with a reproductive pattern and role with relationship
pattern.
253. What tool may be used to graphically demonstrate relationships between multiple
health problems that a client has?
A. a concept map
B. a reflective journal
C. data validation
D. backchanneling
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Concept maps provide a visual tool for demonstrating relationships between
comorbidities that clients have.
254. A client is having mild difficulty breathing. Upon auscultation, the nurse hears
bibasilar rales. The neck veins are distended and ankles are swollen. Which of the
following is the correct nursing diagnosis?
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Shortness of breath, the presence of rales, neck vein distention, and edema
indicate a fluid volume excess.
Correct answer: C
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Rationale: Client-centered interviews create a caring, trusting relationship between
nurses and clients. Since clients are active participants, they are more likely to commit
to plans of care. With increased commitment, outcomes improve. Clients and nurses
work together rather than fostering a dependent relationship of the client upon the
nurse’s expertise and judgment.
256. The presence of Battle’s sign or raccoon eyes may indicate the presence of
A. heroin addiction
B. a skull fracture
C. liver failure
D. glaucoma
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Battle’s sign and raccoon eyes are evidence of skull fractures. Battle’s sign
may indicate a basilar skull fracture. Raccoon eyes indicate the presence of orbital
fractures.
Take a break if you need to when you are ready we will look at growth and development
throughout the lifespan.
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2.2 GROWTH AND DEVELOPMENT THOUGH THE LIFESPAN
2.2A GROWTH AND DEVELOPMENT THEORY
257. Gesell’s theory of development states:
Correct answer: C
258. What is the fifth stage of Freud's psychoanalytic model of personal development?
A. genital
B. phallic
C. latency
D. oral
Correct answer: A
259. According to Erikson, what developmental tasks are teenagers struggling with as they
concentrate on their physical appearance?
Correct answer: C
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260. According to Piaget’s theory of cognitive development, preschoolers are in the
following stage:
A. concrete operational
B. formal operational
C. sensorimotor
D. preoperational
Correct answer: D
Rationale: Between the ages of two and seven, children are in the preoperational stage
according to Piaget’s theory of cognitive development. This is also known as Period II.
Correct answer: A
262. What are the three main sources for developmental tasks according to Havinghurst’s
stage crisis theory?
Correct answer: D
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2.2B PRENATAL DEVELOPMENT
263. The pre-embryonic stage of intrauterine development lasts:
A. from the first day of the last menstrual period until 15 days before the next expected
period
B. from implantation to day 28
C. from conception to day 14
D. for the first three months of the pregnancy
Correct answer: C
Rationale: The pre-embryonic stage, also known as the ovum, lasts from conception
until day 14.
Correct answer: D
Rationale: The three primary germ layers known as the ectoderm, mesoderm, and
endoderm form all body tissues and organs.
Correct answer: C
Rationale: The second stage of intrauterine development called the embryonic stage,
lasts from Day 15 to 8 weeks
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266. Toxins are particularly dangerous during which stage of prenatal development?
A. embryonic disc
B. embryonic
C. pre-embryonic
D. weeks 36-38
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Toxins are very dangerous during all stages of prenatal development.
Harmful effects of toxins are especially dangerous during the embryonic stage because
cell division is rapid.
267. The sex of an unborn baby can be identified in utero via ultrasound at:
A. two weeks
B. four weeks
C. twelve weeks
D. four months
Correct answer: C
A. one ovum
B. one embryo
C. one sperm
D. two zygotes
Correct answer: A
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2.2C PREGNANCY
269. During pregnancy, the corpus luteum:
Correct answer: C
270. The fetal heartbeat heard with the aid of a Doppler at the age of:
A. 8 weeks
B. 14 weeks
C. 24 weeks
D. 32 weeks
Correct answer: A
271. A woman had genetic testing performed. An autosomal recessive disorder was
detected. What percentage of her children are likely to be affected by the disorder?
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Autosomal recessive disorders, such as cystic fibrosis, may affect one out of
four children born to the woman.
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272. When is a glucose tolerance test customarily performed during pregnancy?
Correct answer: C
273. An alpha-fetoprotein level is drawn. It is low. What does this possibly indicate?
A. hydatiform mole
B. ectopic pregnancy
C. Down syndrome
D. Rh sensitivity
Correct answer: C
Rationale: A low alpha-fetoprotein level may indicate the presence of a child with Down
syndrome.
274. A pregnant woman states thinks her water broke. What test is performed to
determine the presence of amniotic fluid?
A. Fern
B. 24-hour urine
C. Antiphospholipid antibody
D. D-dimer
Correct answer: A
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2.2D NEWBORNS
275. All of the following are normal vital signs for a newborn except:
A. temperature: 37.5
B. pulse: 120
C. respirations: 35
D. blood pressure: 88/54
Correct answer: D
Rationale: All of the vital signs are within normal limits except for the blood pressure
which is low. Normal blood pressure for a newborn is around 110/75.
276. Which of the following fetal heart rate tracings most likely indicates fetal distress?
A. variable decelerations
B. occasional late decelerations
C. occasional early decelerations
D. consistent late decelerations
Correct answer: D
277. The most common hazards to a newborn when narcotics are administered during
labor include:
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Narcotics can be sedating and cause the respiratory drive to diminish.
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278. The Apgar score evaluates all of the following except:
A. weight
B. color
C. respiratory effort
D. muscle tone
Correct answer: A
Rationale: The Apgar score evaluates color, heart rate, muscle tone, respiratory effort,
and reflex irritability.
2.2E CHILDREN
279. At what age do infants seroconvert if they contract the human immunodeficiency
virus during pregnancy or delivery?
Correct answer: D
Rationale: Babies who contract the human immunodeficiency virus during pregnancy or
birth seroconvert between the ages of 15 and 18 months.
280. How many times does an infant's weight multiply between birth and the age of one
year?
A. two
B. three
C. four
D. five
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Most infants triple their birth weight by the age of 12 months.
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281. A two-year-old’s vital signs are as follows: temperature 98.9, pulse 110, respirations
24, blood pressure 110/72. What do you tell the parents?
Correct answer: D
Rationale: The vital signs within normal limits for the two-year-old.
A. three months
B. six months
C. one year
D. four years
Correct answer: C
Rationale: Children may be placed in a forward-facing car seat at the age of one year.
283. Most children who need glasses begin to experience visual difficulties during:
A. toddlerhood
B. the preschool years
C. the school-age years
D. the teen years
Correct answer: C
Rationale: Visual deficits often become apparent during the school-age years.
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284. The three leading causes of death among teenagers include the following except:
A. cancer
B. accidents
C. suicide
D. murder
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Sadly, the three leading causes of death among teenagers are accidents,
suicide, and homicide. All are preventable.
2.2F ADULTS
285. What type of biologic theories of aging hypothesize that changes are genetically
determined?
A. stochastic
B. transcription
C. nonstochastic
D. free radical
Correct answer: C
286. What is the primary developmental tasks of young adults according to Erikson?
Correct answer: A
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287. Peak sexual drive in women usually occurs between the ages of:
A. 18 and 25
B. 25 and 35
C. 30 to 45
D. 45 to 60
Correct answer: C
Rationale: Sexual drive in women typically peaks between the ages of 30 and 45.
288. All of the following usually improve during middle age except:
Correct answer: C
Rationale: The ability to synthesize new information often declines in middle age.
A. conceptual
B. activity
C. continuity
D. disengagement
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Activity theory states that activities performed during middle-age must be
continued as a person grows older to age successfully.
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290. Hospitalized older adults have increased risks of developing:
A. dementia
B. delirium
C. depression
D. all of the above
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Delirium may develop in older adults who are hospitalized. This often occurs
due to sleep deprivation, illness, dehydration, drug interactions, and sensory
impairments.
291. What does the functional status of an older adult refer to?
Correct answer: D
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Older adults with an acute illness may present with a wide range of
symptoms that may initially appear unrelated to the disease. New onsets of changes in
mental status, dehydration, appetite, ADLs, incontinence, and dizziness may occur. A
client who has an acute illness may be weak and fall.
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293. Which of the following is/are correct regarding physiological changes in the older
adult?
Correct answer: D
Rationale: Nerve cells degenerate with aging. All of the other facts are true.
Correct answer: B
This is an opportunity for you to take a break. We have concluded the section on growth and
development through the lifespan. When you're ready, we will move on to the next part.
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2.3 HEALTH PROMOTION
We will examine lifestyle, self-care, and means for promoting health. We will review health
screening and high-risk behaviors.
2.3A LIFESTYLE
295. Focus areas of Healthy People 2020 include all of the following except:
Correct answer: C
Rationale: The focus areas of Healthy People 2020 include promoting healthy behaviors,
strategies to help people live longer, healthier lives. Health equity and reduction of
disparities in the provision of healthcare are goals. Another goal is the creation of
health-promoting environments.
296. What are aspects of the World Health Organization's definition of health?
Correct answer: B
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Correct answer: D
Rationale: Social isolation may result from physical, emotional, and social factors.
298. The use of herbs, aromatherapy, guided imagery, and meditation are:
Correct answer: C
A. disease management
B. environmental awareness
C. the United States Centers for Disease Control's definition of health
D. the World Health Organization's definition of health promotion
Correct answer: D
Rationale: The World Health Organization defines health promotion as the process of
enabling people to increase their control over their bodies and improve their health.
300. A woman has a chronic health condition, but she continues to work full-time and care
for her children even though it is challenging to do so. She is considered to be healthy.
A man has a cold and stays home from work. He is deemed to be ill. What model of
health and wellness is demonstrated by these examples?
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C. adaptation model
D. agent -host -environment model
Correct answer: A
Rationale: People are considered to be healthy when they can fulfill their
responsibilities related to their roles. They are considered to be ill if they cannot do so.
A. a newborn baby
B. sexually active women in their late teens and early 20s
C. sexually active men in their 30s
D. sexually active women in their 30s
Correct answer: B
Women who are sexually active and under 25 years of age are most likely to contract chlamydia
infections.
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Colorectal cancer screenings usually begin at age 50 for both sexes unless
there are other risk factors.
Correct answer: D
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Rationale: Depression is ubiquitous. Screening for depression is part of routine
preventative care. It is also implemented when signs and symptoms of depression are
present. Nurses screen for depression.
304. The United States Preventative Services Task Force recommends that women:
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Women over 40 are encouraged to have a screening mammogram every year
or two. The United States Preventative Services Task Force does not recommend
screening thermograms.
305. A 40-year-old man expresses his fear of early death. He says that all of the men in his
family die at an early age due to heart disease. What does the nurse teach the man?
A. your genetic makeup is likely to result in a shortened lifespan for you as well
B. new technology is helping people to live longer
C. they must've died because of unhealthy habits
D. genetics is one aspect that may affect the disease process, however you can make
healthy choices that will help you to live well and may promote a long lifespan
Correct answer: D
Rationale: Genes are important however lifestyle choices impact how genes are
expressed. A healthy lifestyle is essential regardless of a person's genetic makeup.
306. A diagnosis of sickle-cell anemia is most likely to be made for which of the following
people?
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Correct answer: A
307. The client is a smoker. He is entering his final year of medical school. The client states
that he will stop smoking after graduation. What stage of health behavior change in
the client demonstrating?
A. pre-contemplative
B. contemplative
C. maintenance
D. preparation
Correct answer: A
308. Internal variables that influence health and health belief practices include all of the
following except:
A. spiritual beliefs
B. emotions
C. diet
D. developmental stage
Correct answer: C
Rationale: Internal variables that influence health and health belief practices include:
developmental stage, intellect, perceptional functioning, emotions, and spirit.
309. What type of risk factors do premature infants and 95-year-old men face?
A. psychological
B. spiritual
C. age-related
D. emotional
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Correct answer: C
Rationale: People who are very young or very old have increased risk factors for
developing particular health problems.
310. Smoking and engaging in unprotected sex are examples of the following type of risk
factors:
A. environmental
B. lifestyle
C. physiological
D. mental
Correct answer: B
Rationale: A person's lifestyle choices and habits impact their risk for illness.
Correct answer: D
Rationale: While all members of the multidisciplinary care team may have information
about the client self-care abilities the nurse, physical therapist, and occupational
therapist are likely to have the most valuable information.
A. screening scales
B. direct observation
C. screening scales and direct observation
D. the Norton scale
Correct answer: C
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Rationale: Screening scales and direct observation are among the tools used to evaluate
a client’s ability to perform activities of daily living. The Norton scale evaluates a client’s
risk for falling. It may be part of an evaluation. However, it is not comprehensive enough
to assess all activities of daily living.
313. While evaluating a client’s home health needs which of the following requirements
should be considered?
Correct answer: D
Rationale: Many factors should be considered when clients are cared for in the home
setting. Caregiver needs and availability, financial resources, community services,
transportation for medical appointments and physical hazards in the home are just a
few considerations that need to be taken account when clients are provided with care in
the home setting.
314. A client has a manual wheelchair ad a diagnosis of paraplegia. All of the following will
help the client function independently except:
Correct answer: D
Rationale: It is easier to operate wheelchairs on hard surfaces. A rug will make mobility
more difficult.
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B. withdrawal signs at birth
C. intrauterine growth restriction
D. all of the above
Correct answer: D
Rationale: Marijuana use during pregnancy may result in a restriction of fetal growth.
The child may experience withdrawal signs and symptoms at birth. Developmental and
behavioral challenges can arise as the child ages.
316. A child is born suffering from poor respiratory function, seizures, irritability, and signs
of drug withdrawal. What is the most likely cause of the child's distress?
A. nicotine
B. heroin
C. crack cocaine
D. ecstasy
Correct answer: B
317. A pregnant woman is a former heroin addict. She is taking methadone throughout her
pregnancy. What risks are increased for her and her baby?
Correct answer: D
Rationale: Methadone is a potent narcotic. The woman may go into premature labor
which puts the child at risk. She may suffer from placenta abruptio which can be life-
threatening for mother and child. The baby is at risk for aspiration of meconium and
symptoms of drug withdrawal.
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318. The nursing student works and attends school full-time. She raises a family. The
student studies at night while the children are sleeping. She sleeps about four hours
per night. What is the student doing?
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Sleep deprivation is high-risk behavior. It places the person at risk for
accidents, injury, and illness.
319. What strategies can a teenager implement to prevent bone loss later in life?
Correct answer: D
Rationale: It is vital to building strong healthy bones early in life to prevent bone loss
later on.
320. A teenage girl is brought into the emergency room after a minor car accident. She was
driving and found to have a blood-alcohol level of 0.05. The girl is surprised to learn
her alcohol is higher than her twin brother’s as she doesn’t think she drank much.
Which is the most important statement that the nurse can make to the teenager?
A. girls are usually smaller than males so that is probably why your alcohol level is
higher than you thought it would be
B. drinking while driving is a leading cause of death and permanent disability among
your age group. You can be incarcerated.
C. you are likely to develop liver disease at an earlier age than a man drinking a similar
amount of alcohol because you are female
D. drinking alcohol and driving is not safe
Correct answer: B
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Rationale: The girl needs information which affects her life now. She likely already
knows that she shouldn't be drinking and driving. A forceful, clear statement regarding
consequences needs to be made.
321. An eight-year-old boy is cruel to animals and started a fire in his house. What
conclusion does the nurse draw?
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Cruelty to animals and fire starting are often signs of child abuse.
This concludes part 2. Take a break if you need one. When you are ready we will begin Part 3 of
our review. You are doing great!
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PART 3 PSYCHOLOGICAL INTEGRITY
In part three we we will review mental health concepts and communication. Stress
management, families, and culture will be examined. We will address coping, senses, and
values. Our review includes diverse subjects including crises intervention, abuse, and end of life
care. Are you ready to start?
A. Denial
B. Altered self-image
C. Alteration in comfort
D. Role confusion
Correct answer: B
Rationale: The client has multiple diagnoses. The feelings that the soldier express
indicate he has an altered self-image. Self-image may be impacted by internal and
external forces and beliefs. They occur consciously and unconsciously.
323. A woman is struggling struggles to balance working, taking care of her young children,
and looking after her elderly mother who has a diagnosis of Alzheimer's dementia.
What type of stressor is the woman struggling with?
A. role confusion
B. identity
C. body image
D. role conflict
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Correct answer: D
Rationale: The woman is likely suffering from role conflict as she is torn in multiple
directions.
324. Difficulty speaking and reading, disorientation, and poor short-term memory, may
indicate:
A. cognitive impairments
B. phobias
C. obsessive-compulsive disorder
D. personality disorders
Correct answer: A
325. A client concentrates exclusively on her own needs. She believes that she is more
capable than anyone else. The client is devastated if she doesn't receive constant
praise. She likes to be the center of attention. The client is arrogant and lacks
empathy. What type of personality disorder may she be suffering from?
A. schizoid
B. paranoid
C. narcissistic
D. histrionic
Correct answer: C
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326. An 18-year-old female is hospitalized with a diagnosis of anorexia nervosa. Which of
the following systems may be affected?
A. renal
B. cardiovascular
C. musculoskeletal
D. all of the above
Correct answer: D
Rationale: Anorexia affects every cell of the body. People who have anorexia struggle
with mental health issues and obsession with weight. They are at risk for losing muscle
mass, fluid and electrolyte imbalances, nutritional deficits, amenorrhea, and
impairments throughout their entire bodies.
A. reflection
B. communication
C. stereotypes
D. receptive aphasia
Correct answer: B
328. The nurse asks the client to describe his pain in detail. He encourages the client to
describe how the pain impacts his life. The nurse limits the use of questions that can
be answered with one-word answers or by responding with “yes” or “no”. What
communication technique is the nurse employing?
A. reflection
B. asking open-ended questions
C. focusing
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D. clarification
Correct answer: B
329. A client has been refusing to bathe for two days. This morning he said to the nurse: “I
am ready to bathe.” The nurse responds by asking, “did you just say you're ready to
bathe?” What therapeutic communication technique did the nurse use?
A. reflecting
B. paraphrasing
C. restating
D. exploring
Correct answer: C
Rationale: Restating means repeating the same words back to the client. It is done in
order to provide clarification of what the client is saying.
330. An elderly client is being sent to the hospice house for end-of-life care. Family
members ask the nursing staff to avoid using the words “hospice, dying, and end-of-
life” around the client. They request that the client is told that he is at the facility so
he can get well and resume his previous level of functioning. The nurse explains that it
is not fair to the client to provide false reassurances. The nurse knows that false
reassurances can lead to:
Correct answer: D
Rationale: Nurses must gently speak the truth to clients and family members. Clients
have the right to know what is happening to their bodies. They need opportunities for
closure at end-of-life.
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331. The nurse works at an inpatient drug and alcohol abuse treatment center. She ensures
that clients do not have access to objects that they may use to harm themselves. The
building is well lit and decorated with simple, attractive furniture. Boundaries and
rules are clearly stated. Contracts are signed regarding behavioral expectations.
Clients have opportunities to engage in stress-relieving activities such as meditation
and listening to music. What is this setting known as?
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Therapeutic environments provide physical and emotional safety. They are
used to facilitate clients’ abilities to cope and recover.
Correct answer: B
Rationale: The three stages of stress are alarm, resistance, and exhaustion, according to
Selye.
Correct answer: D
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Rationale: The whole body is affected by stress. Gastrointestinal functioning slows,
pupils dilate, and the metabolic rate increases. Immune responses are less efficient.
Cortisol, adrenaline, and rates of glucose consumption increase. Cardiac output, blood
pressure, pulse, and respiratory rate also increases.
334. A client has diabetes. He has pain due to a back injury. His wife just died, and he is
responsible for caring for their three young children. The client is insulin dependent.
He verbalizes that he feels overwhelmed. What does the nurse anticipate?
A. the client may develop neuropathy in his feet within the next week
B. the client’s blood glucose level may suddenly drop due to stress
C. the client’s blood glucose level may increase, and he may need a higher dose of
insulin
D. the clients blood glucose level may be low, and his insulin dose will need to be
adjusted downwards
Correct answer: C
Rationale: Physical and emotional stress can cause blood sugar levels to rise. This client
may need additional insulin.
335. Food contaminated with salmonella, influenza, and head lice are examples of what
kind of environmental stressors?
A. chemical
B. gaseous
C. contaminated
D. biological
Correct answer: D
336. Improving water and air quality, reducing hazardous wastes and toxins, and working
towards improving the environment on a global scale are objectives of:
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D. the Occupational Safety and Health Administration
Correct answer: B
Rationale: The Healthy People 2020 Environmental Health Objectives include goals of
improving water and outdoor air quality. They are focused on reducing the presence of
toxic substances and hazardous waste. Goals include making healthier homes and
communities. The vision is global. It examines infrastructures and uses surveillance
activities.
337. The nurse is teaching a client a simple breathing technique to relieve stress because
the client is frightened before surgery. What does the nurse instruct the client to do?
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Closing the eyes and taking slow deep breaths in through the nose and gently
exhaling through the mouth promotes relaxation and may distract the client from fear.
Correct answer: B
Rationale: The North American Nursing Diagnosis Association (NANDA) defines family
dysfunction as occurring when psychosocial, spiritual, and physiological functions of the
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family unit are chronically disorganized. Disorganization leads to conflict, denial of
problems, resistance to change, ineffective problem-solving, and a series of self-
perpetuating crises.
339. The theorist who describes boundaries within family units as protective, defensive,
resistant, and flexible is:
A. Neumann
B. Newton
C. Lewin
D. Sissinghurst
Correct answer: A
340. A family provides care for children who are in custody of the state. The length of time
that the children stay with the family varies from a few days to several years. What
type of family is this?
A. adoptive
B. communal
C. foster
D. binuclear
Correct answer: C
Rationale: Families which consists of adults and children who are not biologically related
are sometimes foster families. Children aren’t usually permanent members of the
household. Foster families sometimes adopt children in their care. They may also have
biologically related children in the home. Foster families may be arranged via the court,
informally, or they may consist of children living with family friends or relatives. Biologic
parents of the children may or may not be living, known, or involved with the children.
341. Family members are all involved in decision-making processes. Parents offer guidance
and support but encourage children to figure out how and when to accomplish tasks
autonomously. The leadership style of this family is:
A. matriarchal
B. democratic
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C. laissez-faire
D. authoritarian
Correct answer: C
Rationale: All family members have responsibility and input regarding decisions and
how tasks are accomplished. Laissez-faire leadership is also known as delegative
leadership.
Correct answer: C
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Cultural values affect internal beliefs and external behaviors. Culture affects
ideas about the roles of family members and healthcare workers. Punctuality, types of
accepted treatments, and the meaning of illness and death are influenced by cultural
values. Cultural values impact beliefs about counseling, diet, technology, and human
nature.
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344. Assuming that a blond haired, blue eyed woman from Norway wants herring with her
lunch is an example of:
A. cultural competency
B. treating all clients the same regardless of their cultural heritage
C. enculturation
D. stereotyping
Correct answer: D
Correct answer: D
346. What is the best practice to employ when teaching a non-English speaking client how
to prepare for a medical procedure?
Correct answer: D
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Rationale: Using an interpreter shows respect and enables the client to ask questions. It
is more likely that the client will feel valued and invested in the procedure when they
are provided information directly. There is a higher likelihood that instructions will be
comprehended when clients have opportunities to clarify directions and ask questions.
347. Tai chi, massage, herbal remedies, and therapeutic touch are examples of:
A. Folk remedies.
B. Orthomolecular medicine treatment modalities.
C. Mind-body medicine.
D. Complementary and alternative therapies.
Correct answer: D
A. Parkinson's disease
B. trauma to the brain
C. Alzheimer's disease
D. strokes
Correct answer: C
349. Sedation, increased agitation, and confusion may occur among elders when:
Correct answer: A
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Rationale: Psychotropic medications have many side effects. They may cause sedation,
agitation, and increased disorientation among the elderly with dementia.
350. The client is depressed. He worries because he keeps misplacing items and forgets the
names of friends at times. Family members notice the client’s forgetfulness. The
family members realize that the client is more disorganized than he used to be. What
stage of Alzheimer's disease is this client in?
A. early
B. middle
C. late
D. seventh
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Clients with early-stage Alzheimer's disease may feel frustrated and
depressed when they realize their memory is not as sharp as it used to be. Many
individuals with Alzheimer's disease suffer from depression, which is treatable. Family
members are often more aware of the person's limitations than the individual is.
351. Which of the following is a description related to a person with late stage Alzheimer's
disease?
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Individuals with late-stage Alzheimer's disease have memory loss. They are
unable to communicate and perform any activities of daily living. People with late-stage
Alzheimer's disease do not recognize family members and cannot control the
elimination of stool and urine.
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352. A client has middle stage Alzheimer's disease. The client’s daughter says she has
difficulty getting her mother to shower. All of the following tips may make showering
easier except:
A. having a schedule
B. having an extensive discussion with the client about the importance of good hygiene
C. encouraging the daughter to help the client to prepare clothing and needed supplies
D. encouraging the daughter to matter-of-factly state, “it is time to take your shower
now” and then provide a reward for the client when the shower is completed
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Having a discussion with the client about the importance of good hygiene will
not motivate the client to shower. The best verbal approach is to say that it is time to
shower. It is essential to have a regular schedule and to speak in a positive manner.
Laying out needed supplies can reduce fatigue, confusion, and frustration.
A. are addressed by chaplains, social workers, and religious personnel, such as rabbis
and ministers
B. are private and not within a nurse’s scope of practice to address
C. impact attitudes towards healthcare, healing, self-worth, and death
D. have minimal impacts on health and healthcare
Correct answer: C
Rationale: Religion and spirituality impact the client’s view of health and sickness,
death, and meaning. Religion and spirituality may affect the choice of treatments and
treatments withheld. It is appropriate for nurses to conduct spiritual assessments.
354. The client practices the religion of Hinduism. He does not have a local spiritual
affiliation. He is experiencing spiritual distress. The chaplain is a Roman Catholic
priest. What does the nurse do to address the client’s spiritual distress?
A. looks online to see if there are any Hindu temples in the area to refer the client to
B. refers him to a Buddhist monk in the community
C. refers him to the chaplain
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D. encourages the client to ask his family for support
Correct answer: C
Rationale: Chaplains provide spiritual support for people of all religions as well as
people who do not have any religious beliefs. They are aware of support in the
community for people practicing diverse religions.
355. An organized system of shared beliefs and practices, including worship, which
influences decisions, lifestyles, and healthcare practices is known as:
A. religion
B. spirituality
C. prayer
D. meditation
Correct answer: A
356. Nurses may support a family’s spiritual needs when a newborn does not live by:
Correct answer: D
Rationale: Nurses have a critical role in supporting grieving parents when a child is born
dead or dies shortly after birth. Encouraging the parents to hold the deceased child,
making memory packs, and taking photos can ease the family’s spiritual pain. Any
person may perform an emergency baptism if it is not known whether a child will
survive. The person does not need to believe in infant baptism or be a member of a
particular religion.
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357. All of the following are true except:
Correct answer: C
Rationale: It is important to remember that not all members of a religion follow the
tenants of that religion. It is essential to recognize that there are multiple belief systems
and divisions within most religions. For example, Roman Catholics, Eastern Orthodox
Catholics, Lutherans, evangelicals, and Episcopalians are all Christians; however, their
beliefs and practices are diverse.
Take a break if you need one. When you're ready, we will continue reviewing psychosocial
integrity.
A. cochlear implants are used to treat people who are hard of hearing
B. children must be six years old before they can get a cochlear implant
C. the external hardware requires frequent battery changes
D. when clients remove external cochlear implant hardware at night are unable to hear
in emergencies
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Cochlear implants are used to treat deafness. They are not hearing aids.
Babies can have cochlear implants. Nurses need to be aware that clients are unable to
hear when they aren’t wearing their external hardware.
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359. The family member of the critically ill client was told that the client might not survive.
The client was hospitalized in an intensive care unit. The family member states that no
one said to her that the client might not survive. What may explain the family
member’s lack of recall?
A. agitation
B. sensory deprivation
C. sensory overload
D. altered self-esteem
Correct answer: C
Rationale: The family member may be experiencing sensory overload. This is likely to
occur in busy settings, such as intensive care units and emergency departments. Sensory
overload is common during times of high stress.
360. Children who have little sensory stimulation may withdraw. Physical and mental
growth may be delayed. They may have difficulty trusting and forming relationships.
What is a possible nursing diagnosis for these children?
A. failure to thrive
B. adult failure to thrive
C. paranoid schizophrenia
D. trisomy 13
Correct answer: A
361. The 49-year-old female has delirium tremens. She is having visual hallucinations. What
type of medication is indicated?
A. a narcotic
B. narcotic antagonist
C. benzodiazepine
D. tricyclic antidepressant
Correct answer: C
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Rationale: Benzodiazepines are used to treat people who experience visual
hallucinations and agitation secondary to alcohol withdrawal.
Correct answer D
Rationale: Behaviors may result from a wide range of causes. It is essential that nurses
consider sensory deprivation as contributing factors when assessing clients.
A. allostatic load
B. homeostasis
C. developmental crisis
D. appraisal
Correct answer: A
Correct answer: C
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Rationale: The fight or flight reaction is a protective response which occurs when the
sympathetic nervous system is activated.
365. What is responsible for monitoring the body’s physiological status through connection
with sensory and motor tracts of the nervous system?
A. Medulla oblongata
B. cerebellum
C. reticular formation
D. General adaptation syndrome
Correct answer: C
Rationale: The reticular formation monitors physical status of the body through
connections with motor and sensory tracts.
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Ego defense mechanisms are unconscious. They protect the ego when it
perceives threats. Anxiety and stress are lowered. Chronic activation of defense
mechanisms can be deleterious to the body and mind.
367. A woman has breast cancer. She will be treated with Cytoxan and Adriamycin. The
nurse explains to the woman that she will lose her hair and nails. The woman does not
believe the nurse. What defense mechanism is activated?
A. denial
B. repression
C. displacement
D. sublimation
Correct answer: A
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Rationale: When denial occurs, a person does not believe what is being said or
happening even if logic and sensory information confirm that the event or statement is
real. Denial is not a lie. The body and mind unconsciously reject the situation.
A. adventitious
B. situational
C. maturational
D. primary
Correct answer: B
A. a woman who is worried that she will no longer be attractive as she grows older
B. the teenager who is going into surgery due to appendicitis
C. a man who is scared in his home after a recent burglary to his house
D. children afraid to go to school in light of high school shootings
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Maturational crises occur in response to changes that occur along the
lifespan.
370. A client has a history of substance abuse. He is angry and clenching his fist. The client
is swearing at his visitors. He has a history of abusing his spouse. What is the most
likely nursing diagnosis for this client?
Correct answer: A
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Rationale: The client’s history and demeanor indicate that he is more likely to be violent
towards others rather than to himself.
371. Which of the following clients has the highest risk of committing suicide?
A. the 16-year-old girl who yell, “I'll kill myself if I can't go to the dance.”
B. a 25-year-old male who wrote a suicide note, and purchased a gun with the
intention of killing himself
C. a 47-year-old female who has a terminal illness and plans to overdose on medication
when symptoms are unbearable
D. the 22-year-old male who is deciding whether he should take pills or drown himself
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Clients who write suicide notes and have specific plans of killing themselves
with weapons or via other violent means have a higher risk of committing suicide than
individuals without a clear plan or considering using less violent methods to take their
lives.
372. A client has been very depressed. He has been on suicide precautions. He says that he
feels better. His depressive symptoms have decreased. What can be said about his risk
of self-harm and/or his plan of care?
Correct answer: D
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3.1K ABUSE AND NEGLECT
373. An 87-year-old man is being treated for COPD. The client’s son comes to visit. The
nurse notices the client cowers when the son approaches. The son demands money
from the client. This describes:
A. elder abuse
B. neglect of an elder
C. sexual abuse
D. physical neglect
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Elder abuse consists of physical, emotional, sexual or financial threats or acts
against an older person.
374. A four-year-old child was brought to the emergency room for treatment of a fracture
of his forearm. The nurse notices multiple bruises in various stages of healing on the
child's knees and shins. The parent says that the child fell off of a slide at the park and
broke his arm. The child is crying and clinging to the parent. What is this likely an
example of?
Correct answer: A
Rationale: The child most likely fell and broke his arm. There is no indication that any
abuse or neglect has occurred. Four-year-olds fall and receive fractures of the forearm
at times. The child's response is reasonable. Four-year-olds often have bruises on their
knees and shins as a result of playing and falling.
375. Which of the following clients is at an elevated risk for abuse and neglect?
A. a pregnant woman
B. a developmentally delayed eight-year-old
C. a client who is blind
D. all of the above
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Correct answer: D
Rationale: Predators and abusers select vulnerable individuals to prey upon. Women,
especially when pregnant or old, are at risk for abuse. Senior men, children, infants, and
disabled individuals are often victims of abuse. People who have cognitive or
developmental disabilities are at risk.
376. A client was struck in the face by his partner. During what phase of the cycle of
violence did the physical injury occur?
A. honeymoon
B. violence
C. tension building
D. reconciliation
Correct answer: B
Rationale: The violent stage of the cycle of abuse is when the bodily injury occurred.
The cycle of violence has four stages. They include honeymoon, tension building,
violence, and the reconciliation phases.
Correct answer: D
Rationale: Abusers come from all walks of life and cultural backgrounds. Abusers have
often been victims of abuse themselves. People who have substance abuse issues, poor
self-esteem, poor impulse control or mental health disorders are often abusers. Acute
crises and poor anger management skills are risk factors.
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3.1L BEHAVIORAL INTERVENTIONS
378. Observing the client’s facial expressions, movements, voice, and eye contact provides
information about the client’s:
A. nutritional status
B. risk for alterations in fluid and electrolyte balance
C. mood and affect
D. self-care deficits
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Verbal and nonverbal clues provide essential information about the client’s
mood and affect. Movements, facial expressions, the tone of voice, level of
distractibility, and eye contact give information on mood and affect.
Correct answer: A
380. A client is unresponsive. His eyes open sometimes but they do not focus. The client
does not respond to painful or other stimuli. He shows no signs of recognition when
spoken to. What level of consciousness describes this client?
A. lethargic
B. obtunded
C. confused
D. persistent vegetative state
Correct answer: D
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Rationale: Clients in a persistent vegetative state have no cognitive function. They may
have minimal movements such as opening the eyes or muscular contractions; however,
those movements are not purposeful.
381. A client is unable to move but can respond to questions by blinking. He seems to
recognize people and understand when care is provided. What describes the client’s
status?
A. locked in
B. comatose
C. stuporous
D. lethargic
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Clients with a diagnosis of locked-in syndrome have some level of cognitive
function. They are unable to move purposefully. They can communicate with eye
movements and are aware of people and activities around them.
3.1M ADDICTIONS
382. A client is faithfully following her weight reduction diet. Over the past two months,
she has lost 15 pounds. The woman consumes 1400 calories per day. She exercises
daily for one hour. She has not lost any weight in three weeks and is becoming
discouraged. The nurse:
A. explains to the client that the body is adjusting to the weight loss and that if she
continues doing what she is currently doing her body will change, and she will begin
to lose weight
B. instructs the client to reduce your caloric intake by 500 calories per day
C. tells the client to exercise for an additional hour each day
D. discusses other diets with the client
Correct answer: A
Rationale: The client is losing weight at an average rate. She is consuming a low-calorie
diet and getting regular exercise. People often reach a plateau while losing weight as the
body readjusts its set point. The woman needs to continue with her current program,
and she will begin to lose weight again.
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383. Which of the following is a correct statement?
A. people who are addicted to drugs may or may not have a physical dependency.
B. physical dependency indicates an addiction to a drug
C. even though a client takes more of a narcotic then prescribed; it is not substance
abuse
D. heroin causes psychological but not physical dependence
Correct answer: A
Rationale: A person may have a physical dependency on a drug but not be addicted to
it. A person can be addicted to a drug yet not have a physical dependency.
384. A client has a diagnosis of bipolar depression. He smokes crack cocaine daily. The
client:
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Clients who have a diagnosis of mental illness and are substance abusers are
said to have a dual diagnosis.
385. A client is brought into the emergency department. He is vomiting, and his speech is
slurred. The client is euphoric and walking with an impaired gait. He has tremors. He
complains of soreness around his nose. What type of substance is it likely that the
client is intoxicated with?
A. cocaine
B. an aerosol product
C. and opioid
D. alcohol
Correct answer: B
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Rationale: Inhalants, including substances from aerosol cans, gasoline, paint thinner,
and glue lead to the symptoms that the client has.
386. Street drugs which are commonly referred to as bath salts are similar in effect to:
A. opioids
B. barbiturates
C. amphetamines
D. cannabinoids
Correct answer: C
Rationale: Bath salts, which are cathinones, produce effects resembling amphetamines,
including cocaine. Withdrawal symptoms are similar.
Correct answer: D
Rationale: Hospice is appropriate for people who are expected to live for less than six
months regardless of diagnosis. Hospice is not suitable for clients who are actively
receiving curative treatments.
Correct answer: C
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Rationale: Older people generally underrate pain levels. Clients who are unresponsive
or have a diagnosis of dementia may have pain. Nurses need to be alert to nonverbal
signs of discomfort.
389. Which is the least desirable method for preventing and relieving excess secretions
when a client is dying?
Correct answer: A
Correct answer: D
Correct answer: A
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Rationale: Palliative sedation is used to alleviate suffering when other methods are
ineffective.
392. A client who is dying is experiencing delirium, agitation, and aggression. What is
another term for what the client is experiencing?
A. dementia
B. hypoxia
C. terminal agitation
D. terminal secretions
Correct answer: C
Rationale: Another name for delirium at end-of-life is terminal agitation. Delirium and
agitation are difficult symptoms to treat. Hypoxia may precipitate terminal agitation.
A. anticipatory grief
B. financial pressures
C. altered family dynamics
D. all of the above
Correct answer: D
Rationale: Family members may experience stress due to a vast array of stressors.
Relationships within families may be strained when individuals disagree over the plan of
care.
394. A man died. He was an abusive father who used drugs, gambled, and was frequently
absent from the home. When he was home, he regularly played ball with his sons
when they were young. The sons are adults. What may his sons’ experience after the
man’s death?
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Correct answer: D
395. A child is terminally ill and cannot eat. The family wants to have a feeding tube
inserted to prolong the child's life. What does the nurse say to the family?
A. tube feeding does not extend life expectancy when a person is terminally ill
B. tube feeding will keep your child hydrated, comfortable, and extend his life
C. tube feeding will improve your child's quality of life and decrease the risk of
aspiration pneumonia
D. tube feedings will help to prevent bed sores and infections
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Tube feedings do not extend life expectancy when a person is terminally ill.
Hydration at end-of-life may increase suffering. Research shows that tube feeding does
not usually improve a person's quality of life at the end of life. Tube feedings increase
the risk of infections including aspiration pneumonia. Bedsores aren’t prevented and do
they heal better when tube feedings are used to treat terminally ill individuals.
396. The nurse is providing care for a client who has a terminal illness. The client requests
that his Rabbi is called. He says that he feels guilty because he didn't practice his faith
with vigor and commitment. The client promises to be a better Jew if God will spare
him. What stage of death and dying is the client in?
A. denial
B. bargaining
C. anger
D. depression
Correct answer: B
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397. Which of the following clients may experience grief?
Correct answer: D
Rationale: People grieve when they anticipate or experience loss. Grief is not always
related to death.
398. A client had multiple treatments for cancer over a period of 10 years. The treatment
he is now receiving is not working. He is rude, continually calling for the nurse, and
refusing to eat. What is a possible diagnosis?
Correct answer: A
Rationale: The client is most likely angry. He is experiencing the first stage of the
grieving process.
399. A man is teary and sad. His wife of 30 years is terminally ill. What can the nurse do to
ease the man’s suffering?
Correct answer: A
Rationale: The man is likely experiencing the depression phase of grief. Sitting with him
or encouraging him to voice his feelings may help.
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400. A woman experienced a miscarriage when she was 14 weeks pregnant. What response
does the nurse anticipate?
A. grief
B. loss
C. sadness
D. all of the above
Correct answer: D
Congratulations! You have just completed 400 questions of your NCLEX-RN review! Isn’t it
amazing how much you know? We are going to start a new unit. Are you ready? Let’s get
started!
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PART 4 PHYSIOLOGICAL INTEGRITY
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Jogging, walking, and swimming are examples of isotonic exercises. Isotonic
exercises cause muscle contractions. The length of the muscle changes with activity.
A. Cartilaginous
B. Fibrous
C. Synovial
D. Antagonistic
Correct answer: B
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403. A client has torn the tissue that connects his muscles and bone of his forearm. What
type of tissue did he injure?
A. Muscle
B. Ligament
C. Tendon
D. Cartilage
Correct answer: C
A. Antagonistic
B. Involuntary
C. Synergistic
D. Antigravity
Correct answer: D
405. A client had a cerebrovascular accident. She is unaware of where her right leg is and
frequently bumps into objects. What is the client experiencing difficulty with?
A. Proprioception
B. Her antigravity muscles
C. Isometric contractions
D. Posture
Correct answer: A
Rationale: The client is having difficulty with proprioception. She is unaware of the
position of her body parts.
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406. Which of the following contribute to decreased bone mass in older adults?
Correct answer: D
Rationale: Bone mass decreases in older adults due to reduced physical activity,
increased activity of osteoclasts, and hormonal changes. Nutrition throughout the
lifespan and medications may also impact bone loss.
407. A male client is 60 years old. What is his target heart rate while he exercises?
A. 60-92 bpm
B. 84-120 bpm
C. 96-144 bpm
D. 110-152 bmp
Correct answer: C
Rationale: Here is how to obtain a target heart rate: Subtract the client’s age from 220.
Multiply by 60% to get the lower limit of his targeted heart rate. Multiply by 90 % to get
the upper limits of the targeted heart rate. The targeted heart rate is between the
upper and lower limits. The sex of the client is irrelevant.
408. A man is undergoing chemotherapy. He took a shower and stated that he feels
exhausted. He is so tired after the shower that he lies on the floor for a few minutes.
What is the nursing diagnosis?
Correct answer: C
Rationale: The client has activity intolerance related to his disease process and the
chemotherapy.
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409. Immobility contributes to the development of all of the following except:
A. Bone loss
B. Urinary stasis
C. Depression
D. Diarrhea
Correct answer: D
Rationale: Immobility impacts the entire body. People are more likely to develop
constipation, not diarrhea as a result of immobility.
Correct answer: C
Rationale: Using a mechanical lift is safest for the client and staff. Use a mechanical lift
when clients are large, unable to support themselves, or unable to support their weight.
411. A client fell while using a broken walker. What does the nurse do first?
Correct answer: D
Rationale: Always provide care for the client first. If the client is in an unsafe situation,
remove the client from danger if necessary before providing care otherwise always
provide care before conducting other activities.
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412. A client had a cerebrovascular accident. The client has a weakness of his dominant
hand and failed a swallow evaluation. Which of the following are likely to be
employed to facilitate safer and easier oral intake?
Correct answer: D
Rationale: Adaptive plates and silverware can aid clients who have experienced
cerebrovascular accidents. Clients who have had strokes often have impaired
swallowing. Thickened liquids prevent choking. Straws are contraindicated when
swallowing problems are present.
413. You are teaching a client how to safely use a walker. What do you tell the client?
A. The walker handles need to be at the level of the abdomen when the arms are held
at the sides while standing upright
B. The walker handles need to be at the level of the wrists when the arms are held at
the sides while standing upright
C. It is important to lean the upper body weight backward with the arms outstretched
while holding the walker when changing from a sitting to standing position.
D. Non-wheeled walkers may not be used on uneven outdoor surfaces
Correct answer: B
Rationale: The walker handles need to be a wrist height. Leaning backward could result
in a fall. Wheeled and non-wheeled walkers may be used indoors and out.
414. A client has low vision bilaterally. What can the nurse do to support the client in the
home setting?
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Correct answer: D
Rationale: Basic actions including ensuring glasses are clean, within reach, and well
maintained are essential when caring for clients who have low vision. A wide array of
adaptive tools are available. These include, but are not limited to, reading materials,
magnifiers, and computer programs. An ocular prosthesis is an artificial eye. It is not
capable of providing vision.
415. The nurse is caring for a five-year-old who has a diagnosis of cerebral palsy. He will be
starting kindergarten soon. The child is unable to walk. He has a manual wheelchair.
The nurse suggests that the parent consider purchasing a mobility aid that resembles a
race car or decorating the wheelchair in bright colors. What nursing diagnosis is being
addressed?
A. Alteration in mobility
B. Potential impaired social interaction
C. Cognitive impairment
D. Delayed growth and development related to physical impairment
Correct answer: B
Rationale: All of the nursing diagnoses listed may be true for a child with a diagnosis of
cerebral palsy. However, the actions suggested by the nurse are intended to help the
child “fit in” when he attends kindergarten.
416. A child has spina bifida. She has a diaper rash. What kind of gloves are used while
providing care?
A. Latex gloves
B. Latex-free gloves
C. Rubber gloves
D. Cloth gloves
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Children who have spina bifida are at risk for a latex allergy response related
to repeated exposures to latex. Rubber gloves contain latex. Cloth gloves do not provide
adequate protection from microbes and may spread them.
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417. A deaf client lip reads. All of the following facilitate communication with the client
except:
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Facing the client is essential. However, the client cannot hear regardless of
how loud the nurse speaks since he is deaf.
418. A woman had a mastectomy. She is considering whether to wear a breast prosthesis
or have reconstructive surgery performed. The woman is crying and sitting with her
arms crossed. She is wearing unattractive loose clothing. She states that she is worried
that her partner will find her undesirable. What is a possible nursing diagnosis?
A. Disturbed body image related to the loss of a sexually significant body part
B. Potential disturbed body image related to the loss of a sexually significant body part
C. Risk for powerlessness related to an unknown outcome of a procedure
D. Knowledge deficit related to self-care activities
Correct answer: A
Rationale: The woman is currently distressed about her body image. Her worry is about
her image and relationship, not the possible procedure. There is no evidence of a self-
care deficit.
4.1C ELIMINATION
419. A two-year-old needs his ears irrigated. What does the nurse do to perform the
procedure?
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Correct answer: D
Rationale: While irrigating the ears of children who are less than three years old the
pinna must be pulled forward and down to straighten the ear canal. Pull the pinna up
and back while irrigating the ears of individuals who are aged three and up.
420. A client is constipated. The stool in her rectum is hard. What type of enema is
administered?
A. Oil retention
B. Cleansing
C. Carminative
D. Medicated
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Oil retention enemas lubricate the rectum. Stool absorbs the oil, making it
softer. These actions make defecating easier and more comfortable.
421. A client has a urinary catheter. She produced 2000 cc of urine in twenty-four hours.
Describe her urinary status:
Correct answer: A
Rationale: The average adult produces approximately two thousand ccs, two liters, of
urine per day.
422. An indwelling urinary catheter is clogged with mucus. The nurse determines that it
needs to be irrigated. Which of the following is a correct intervention to resolve the
problem?
A. Clamp the urinary catheter drainage tubing and raise the catheter drainage bag
above the client’s waist five to six times while the client is lying down.
B. Unclamp the urinary catheter drainage tubing and raise the catheter drainage bag
above the client’s waist five to six times while the client is lying down.
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C. Clamp the urinary catheter drainage tubing and irrigate the catheter using a syringe
and irrigation port
D. Disconnect the catheter from the drainage tubing and irrigate the catheter with a 60
cc irrigation syringe
Correct answer: C
Rationale: Irrigate a clogged urinary catheter with a syringe. Use the irrigation port.
Clamp the tubing below the port before performing the procedure. Be sure to unclamp
the tubing post procedure.
Correct answer: C
424. A client had abdominal surgery three days ago. She has abdominal bloating and
discomfort. The client has a urinary catheter which is draining freely. She has not had
a bowel movement. Her bowel sounds are hypoactive. What does the nurse do?
Correct answer: D
Rationale: The client’s bowel function has likely been impacted by the surgery,
anesthesia, and immobility. Walking stimulates peristalsis which will help the woman to
expel flatus and stool. The rectal tube relieves flatulence.
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425. A client has a continuous bladder irrigation post prostate surgery. 2000cc of irrigation
is solution infused during a shift. 2400 cc of liquid was emptied from the client’s
urinary drainage bag during the shift. What was the client’s urinary output during the
shift?
A. 4400 cc
B. 2400 cc
C. 2000 cc
D. 400 cc
Correct answer: D
Rationale: The client’s urinary output is 400 cc. Subtract the total irrigation fluid from
the total amount of liquid in the urinary drainage bag. The difference is the urinary
output.
426. A client has a catheter that was surgically implanted into the medial portion of his
pelvis, slightly above his symphysis pubis. A urinary drainage bag is attached to the
catheter. The device is called a:
A. Ileal-conduit
B. straight catheter
C. Suprapubic catheter
D. Condom catheter
Correct answer: C
A. Stress
B. Urge
C. Mixed
D. Functional
Correct answer: B
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Rationale: Bladder retraining treats urge incontinence caused by an overactive bladder.
428. A client has an indwelling urinary catheter. What is the minimum frequency for
providing perineal care?
Correct answer: C
Rationale: When a client has an indwelling urinary catheter, perineal care is provided at
least three times daily and after each bowel movement.
“Don’t touch me.” The woman demands that she be given a narcotic. She is most likely
showing these behaviors because:
A. she is an addict
B. she has a low tolerance for pain
C. the behaviors are typical of her cultural group
D. she is in the transition phase of labor.
Correct answer: D
Rationale: All of the behaviors are within a range of normal responses for a woman
during the transition stage of labor.
430. A client is resting quietly with her eyes closed. She states that her pain level is a 9/ 10
and requests that pain medication be given. The nurse concludes that the woman:
A. is drug seeking
B. doesn’t understand the pain scale
C. is experiencing a high leavel of pain
D. must have a low tolerance for pain
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Correct answer: C
Rationale: No evidence is provided that indicates the woman is drug seeking or doesn’t
comprehend the pain scale. Whether or not the woman has a low pain tolerance is
irrelevant. The woman perceives that she is experiencing a great deal of pain. Not all
clients demonstrate high levels of pain outwardly.
431. Reassurance, touch, and simply sitting with a client are techniques which may reduce
a
client’s:
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Words, touch, and being present with a client may reduce emotional distress.
Reduced emotional or spiritual distress leads to enhanced physical comfort and a
greater capacity for learning. Ask clients for permission prior to touching them or sitting
with them as some individuals may feel increased distress when touched or in the
presence of healthcare providers.
432. A client sprained his ankle yesterday. He called the nurse support line as he is
experiencing 3/10 constant, achy pain in the ankle. What recommendations does the
nurse make to the client?
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Acute sprains are treated by RICE: Rest, Ice, Compress, and Elevation.
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433. A client has pain that has been occurring intermittently for two years. A definite cause
of the pain has not been identified. What type of pain does the client have?
A. nociceptive
B. visceral
C. idiopathic
D. neuropathic
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Idiopathic pain is chronic and occurs intermittently. The cause is not precisely
determined. Nociceptive pain is the normal processing of stimuli that are capable of
damaging tissue. Visceral pain is felt within internal organs. Neuropathic pain is a result
of nerve compression or damage.
434. What kind of nonpharmacological interventions for the prevention and treatment of
pain works by releasing endorphins blocking the transmission of painful stimuli?
Correct answer: A
435. Which of the following substances cause vasodilation and tissue swelling?
A. neuromodulators
B. substance P
C. serotonin
D. immunoglobulin
Correct answer: B
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4.1E NUTRITION
436. Which of the following nutrients is most difficult to obtain via the diet?
A. vitamin C
B. vitamin D
C. magnesium
D. iron
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Vitamin D is difficult to get from food sources. Cold deep-water fish and
mushrooms are among the few sources contain vitamin D. Vitamin D is primarily
obtained through exposure to sunlight. Supplementation is often necessary.
437. Which of the following groups of food are most likely to cause discomfort and
flatulence among postoperative clients?
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Cruciferous vegetables, including broccoli and cabbage, are gas forming.
Lentils, dried peas, and beans are gas producing.
438. A client has a high-level of unhealthy LDL-cholesterol. What type of nutrient(s) will
lower his cholesterol level most efficiently?
A. water-soluble vitamins
B. fat-soluble vitamins
C. fiber
D. trace elements
Correct answer: C
Rationale: Fiber such as that which is contained in whole grains, legumes, fruit, and
vegetables helps to reduce unhealthy levels of LDL-cholesterol.
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439. The client is advised to eat liver three times a week. She's instructed to consume a
tablespoon of blackstrap molasses every day. The woman is encouraged to consume
plenty of legumes and dark green vegetables. What diagnosis are the recommended
foods used to treat?
A. gout
B. congestive heart failure
C. chronic kidney disease
D. anemia
Correct answer: D
Rationale: The foods listed are excellent sources of iron. People with anemia need iron.
Correct answer: A
441. 441. The client had a myocardial infarction and his blood pressure is elevated. He
needs to lose 60 pounds. What diet plan is best for him to follow?
A. Paleo
B. lacto Ovo vegetarian
C. DASH
D. Mediterranean
Correct answer: While all of the diets listed can be healthy, the best diet for this client
is the DASH Diet. It reduces hypertension and enhances cardiovascular health.
442. The client is being discharged. The nurse instructs the client to limit her intake of
spinach, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, and collards. Which of the following clients is most
likely to be given those instructions?
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A. A 75-year-old woman who was treated for gastrointestinal hemorrhage and is being
discharged on pantoprazole
B. The 45-year-old female who had a pulmonary embolism and is being released on
warfarin
C. A 23-year-old woman who delivered twins via C-section and is being released with
multivitamins
D. The 87-year-old female who had an emergency appendectomy and is being
discharged on ciprofloxacin
Correct answer: B
Rationale: The 45-year-old woman who had a pulmonary embolism will require long-
term anticoagulant therapy. Dark green vegetables contain concentrated amounts of
vitamin K which are contraindicated.
443. A client is on aspiration precautions. What do you expect to find on the client's lunch
tray?
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Thickened liquids, mechanically soft foods, and chopped ground meats are
indicated when a client is on aspiration precautions. Straws are contraindicated.
444. Clients with cirrhosis of the liver or advanced age are frequently prescribed the
following nutrient:
A. vitamin A
B. vitamin B12
C. vitamin E
D. CoQ10
Correct answer: B
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445. Which of the following lipid profiles is most likely to contribute cardiovascular
disease?
Correct answer: C
Rationale: Low levels of HDL cholesterol combined with high levels of LDL-cholesterol
and triglycerides puts a person at risk for cardiovascular damage and illness.
446. Poor diet contributes to approximately this percentage of illness and death in the
United States:
A. 15%
B. 35%
C. 50%
D. 65%
Correct answer: D
Rationale: Over two-thirds of deaths in the United States are related to illnesses directly
impacted by dietary choices.
447. According to the US government’s “My Plate,” fruits and vegetables should comprise
this much of the plate:
A. one quarter
B. one third
C. one half
D. three quarters
Correct answer: C
Rationale: The United States Department of Agriculture's “My Plate” shows consumers
that half of their plates should be filled with fruits and vegetables.
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448. Vegans may need to take supplements of which of the following vitamins?
A. A
B. B6
C. B12
D. E
Correct answer: C
449. All of the following statements are true regarding essential fatty acids except:
Correct answer: D
Rationale: The body cannot manufacture essential fatty acids. Therefore, essential fatty
acids must be obtained via the diet or nutritional supplementation.
450. Compounds that decrease free radicals, slow the aging process, and protect against
cancer and cardiovascular disease are called:
A. antioxidants
B. lipids
C. polyunsaturated fats
D. amino acids
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Antioxidants help to remove free radicals from the body. Free radicals
contribute to disease and aging. Diets that contain high amounts of antioxidants have
been shown to reverse coronary artery disease and decrease the incidence of certain
cancers. Examples of antioxidants include vitamins A and E. Complex carbohydrates are
excellent sources of antioxidants.
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451. These substances help transport fats and fat-soluble vitamins throughout the body:
A. complex carbohydrates
B. lipoproteins
C. essential fatty acids
D. hemicelluloses
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Lipoprotein's aid the transport of fats and the fat-soluble vitamins; A, D, E,
and K; throughout the body.
452. An adult male client consumes between 25 and 35 g of fiber each day. When he asks
you about his fiber intake you state:
Correct answer: B
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Overdoses of vitamin A are toxic to the liver, not the kidneys. Beta-carotene
is harmless. People who have hypothyroidism need to consume vitamin A as they
cannot convert beta-carotene to vitamin A.
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454. Folic acid deficiency is particularly harmful during the:
Correct answer: D
Rationale: Women who desire to become pregnant should consume folic acid
supplements before becoming pregnant. Consuming adequate amounts of folic acid
before pregnancy and during the first trimester prevents the majority of neural tube
defects such as anencephaly and spina bifida.
455. A client has a stage IV decubitus ulcer. What nutrients are critical for wound healing?
Correct answer: C
Rationale: Protein is needed to rebuild tissue. Vitamin C promotes wound healing and
fights infection. Ensuring adequate protein and vitamin C is essential when treating a
client with a stage IV decubitus ulcer
456. All of the following statements regarding vitamin C are true except:
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Vitamin C should not be taken simultaneously with medications used to treat
diabetes or with sulfa drugs. Vitamin C can decrease the effectiveness of these
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medication. Women who take more than 5000 mg of vitamin C daily while pregnant are
at risk for delivering babies who develop scurvy after birth. Scurvy is a vitamin C
deficiency disease which is characterized by bleeding and weakness.
457. A nutrient aids nerve function, blood pressure regulation, and digestive health. It
provides structure for connective tissue, bones, and teeth. The nutrient helps to
prevent colon and breast cancers. What nutrient is it?
A. riboflavin
B. thiamine
C. calcium
D. potassium
Correct answer: C
458. A client has a BMI of 25. What does the nurse recommend to the client?
Correct answer: B
Rationale: According to the World Health Organization, a desirable body mass index is
between 18.9 and 24.9.
459. The World Health Organization recommends that pregnant women not consume more
than 300 mg of caffeine daily. Approximately how many cups of regular coffee is that?
A. one
B. two
C. three
D. four
Correct answer: B
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Rationale: An 8-ounce cup of regular coffee contains about 140 mg of caffeine. The
March of Dimes recommends 200 mg of caffeine daily. Coffee from shops often contains
much higher amounts of caffeine per cup. Instant beverages usually contain less. Green
and black teas contain 40 to 50 mg of caffeine per cup. Cola drinks contain 30 mg per
cup as does one and a half ounces of dark chocolate.
460. A client has gout. Which of the following meal recommendations does the nurse
make?
Correct answer: C
Rationale: Cherries and their juice are beneficial for people who suffer from gout.
Cherries neutralize uric acid and prevent the formation of painful crystals. Pineapple,
strawberry, and blueberries are also helpful. People who have gout must limit or
eliminate foods which contain high amounts of purines. These include meat and oily
fishes. Organ meats contain extremely high amounts of purines and should not be
eaten. Alcohol, caffeine, legumes, and refined carbohydrates should be eliminated or
restricted.
461. An 87-year-old man has an albumin level of 3.0. What does this indicate?
A. malnutrition
B. renal disease
C. lymphoma
D. leukemia
Correct answer: A
Rationale: The normal serum albumin level is 3.5 to 5.5 g/dL. A level of less than 3.4
indicates protein loss and malnutrition. Malnutrition may occur as a result of kidney
disease or cancer. However further assessment is needed to make that determination.
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462. A child is diagnosed with rickets. What nutrient deficiency is responsible?
A. calcium
B. vitamin D
C. magnesium
D. zinc
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Rickets and osteomalacia are caused by a lack of vitamin D. Bones weaken,
and deformity arises.
A. riboflavin
B. pantothenic acid
C. niacin
D. thiamine
Correct answer: D
Rationale: Clients with Korsakoff’s syndrome have a deficiency of vitamin B1, thiamine.
464. Clients who have a diagnosis of COPD often have poor intake because:
A. eating is tiring
B. eating causes shortness of breath
C. they find food unpalatable
D. all of the above
Correct answer: D
Rationale: Many clients who have a diagnosis of COPD have poor intake due to fatigue
and shortness of breath. Medications and other factors may reduce the appetite and
cause food to seem less palatable.
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465. When women are breastfeeding, their caloric need:
Correct answer: D
Rationale: Women need approximately 500 calories per day over their pre-pregnancy
requirements while breastfeeding.
466. The client is admitted to the inpatient hospice unit for end-of-life care. The family of
the client is concerned that he is not eating. What does the nurse do?
A. orders a puréed diet and teaches family members how to feed the client
B. offers liquid nutritional supplements four times per day
C. teaches the family it is normal for people to stop eating during the final days of life
D. contacts the physician to discuss nasogastric or peg tube placement
Correct answer: C
Rationale: Clients usually stop eating during the days leading up to death. Family
members often struggle with this. The nurse educates the family about signs and
symptoms of the dying process including cessation of eating.
A. retaining fluid
B. dehydrated
C. renal failure
D. experiencing urinary retention
Correct answer: B
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Rationale: Dry, tented, cracked skin is a sign of dehydration. When people are
dehydrated, they have little energy. The eyes may be sunken. Urinary output decreases.
Correct answer: D
Rationale: Older adults often do not drink enough fluids. Their bodies contain a lower
percentage of water than younger adults. They may also take medications which
contribute to dehydration.
A. adrenal glands
B. pancreas
C. hypothalamus
D. thymus gland
Correct answer: C
470. A nine-month-old infant has been diagnosed with mild dehydration secondary to
diarrhea. What method of rehydration is attempted first?
Correct answer: D
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Rationale: When children, infants, or toddlers are dehydrated, oral rehydration therapy
is attempted before other measures are taken. Oral rehydration therapy is not invasive
or painful.
471. The nurse is caring for a client who was injured in a motor vehicle crash. The client
sustained a traumatic brain injury. He has difficulty swallowing. What does the nurse
use to facilitate adequate, safe oral fluid intake?
A. a sippy cup
B. thickened liquids
C. a large bore straw
D. a 50 mL syringe
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Thickened liquids prevent aspiration and are used when clients have
difficulty swallowing.
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Babies should be positioned on their sides or back to prevent death due to
sudden infant death syndrome. Pillows should not be used for infants.
A. naloxone
B. dantrolene
C. flumazenil
D. amiodarone
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Correct answer: C
474. The client has a diagnosis of obstructive sleep apnea. Caution must be used when this
type of medication is administered:
A. NSAIDs
B. opioids
C. benzodiazepines
D. ACE inhibitors
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Clients who have a diagnosis of obstructive sleep apnea are at risk for
developing respiratory depression when opioids are administered.
475. The client has a diagnosis of narcolepsy. What may occur as a result?
A. seizure activity
B. night terrors
C. short periods of apnea at night
D. sudden onset of sleep during the daytime
Correct answer: D
Rationale: Clients who have narcolepsy may suddenly fall asleep at any time. They are
at risk of injuring themselves and others as a result.
476. Dreams which occur during REM sleep facilitate all of the following except:
A. learning
B. processing of memories
C. coping with stressors
D. regulation of blood pressure
Correct answer: D
Rationale: Experts believe that dreams which occur during REM sleep aid learning and
the processing of memories. It is understood that dreams help people cope with stress.
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Take a break if you desire. You have worked hard! We have just concluded unit 3.
A. client education
B. dose
C. affordability
D. medication
Correct answer: C
Correct answer: D
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Rationale: Healthcare organizations determine unique client identifiers. A complete
name or complete date of birth are usually acceptable identifiers. Some facilities
provide photographs or barcodes, which are also acceptable.
479. When medications are stored in a facility, all of the following must be in place except:
A. medication must be stored within easy reach of staff who are responsible for its
administration
B. drugs that need refrigeration must be kept cold
C. narcotics must be stored and locked
D. non-narcotic medications must be stored securely
Correct answer: A
Rationale: While storing medicines within easy reach of staff is desirable, it is not
mandated.
Correct answer: C
Rationale: Buccal medications are placed inside of the cheek of the mouth.
481. Liquid medications are generally administered to children under the age of:
A. two
B. three
C. five
D. eight
Correct answer: C
Rationale: Liquid medications are usually prescribed for children under the age of five.
However, many children older than the age of five prefer liquid medicines as well.
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482. A client has a nasogastric tube. The nurse administers medication via the tube. All of
the following actions are necessary except:
Correct answer: A
Rationale: The suction must be turned off or else the medication will be sucked out.
A. deltoid muscle
B. vastus lateralis
C. gluteus medius
D. gluteus maximus
Correct answer: B
A. 0.5 mL
B. 1 mL
C. 2.5 mL
D. 3 mL
Correct answer: B
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485. Choose the correct needle to use when administering an intramuscular injection to an
average -sized adult:
A. 22-gauge 5/8-inch
B. 22-gauge 1 ½-inch
C. 25-gauge 5/8-inch
D. 18-gauge 1-inch
Correct answer: B
Rationale: A 22-gauge 1 1/2-inch needle will deliver the medication to the right area.
The 5/8-inch needles are too short. The 18-gauge will cause increased resistance and
pain.
486. Choose the best needle to use when administering a subcutaneous injection to an
average -sized adult:
A. 22gauge 5/8-inch
B. 22gauge 1 ½-inch
C. 25gauge 5/8-inch
D. 18gauge 1-inch
Correct answer: C
Rationale: The 25-gauge 5/8-inch needle is sufficient to administer the medication. The
25-gauge needle will cause less discomfort than a 22-gauge needle. However, it may be
used if a 25-gauge needle isn’t available. The 1 and 1 ½ inch needles are too long.
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Schedule I controlled substances are not used in clinical settings because
they are dangerous.
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488. The nurse is teaching a client how to intranasally self-administer calcitonin. What does
the nurse tell the client to do?
Correct answer: C
Rationale: Tilting the head backward while administering the drug improves retention
and absorption of the medicine.
489. What is the most vital information to provide when instructing a client in the use of
eye drops?
A. do not allow the tip of the dropper to touch the eye, surrounding tissues, fingers, or
any object
B. shake the container before administering the drops
C. do not wipe the eyes with a tissue before or after administration of the medication
D. keep the eye drops refrigerated
Correct answer: A
Rationale: It is essential that the dropper tip not make contact with any object or body
part. This is done to prevent infection. If the dropper does make contact with the body
part or object, it should be disposed of and replaced. Shaking the container of eye drops
is not always necessary. Most drops do not need to be refrigerated. Clients shouldn't
wipe their eyes with tissues, particularly after medication administration. However,
preventing contamination of the drop dispenser is a higher priority.
A. enteric-coated aspirin
B. extended-release morphine sulfate
C. nitroglycerin sublingual tablet
D. hydrochlorothiazide
Correct answer: D
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Rationale: Enteric-coated and extended release medications may not be crushed or
altered. Nitroglycerin sublingual tablets melt and are absorbed under the tongue.
491. The physician orders what appears to be 5 mg of furosemide. The nurse isn't sure
whether the order reads 5 mg or 15 mg. The client states that she usually takes 5 mg
and that's what the doctor told her he was going to order. What does the nurse do?
A. administer 5 mg of furosemide
B. administer 15 mg of furosemide
C. administer 5 mg of furosemide and then contact the doctor to see if an additional 10
mg should be given
D. contact the physician for clarification before administering any furosemide
Correct answer: D
Rationale: The nurse must contact the prescriber whenever an order is illegible.
492. A nurse received a telephone order for a medication. What does the nurse do?
Correct answer: C
Rationale: Verbal and telephone orders must be read back and verified before they are
transcribed or carried out.
493. A client refused to take medicine this morning. What does the nurse do?
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Clients have the right to refuse medication. The nurse holds medicine and
notifies the prescriber. Medication should not be disposed of down the toilet as it
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contaminates water. The drug must be given within the healthcare organization’s time
frame for medication administration.
494. The nurse prepares to administer an oral suspension to an infant. What does the
nurse do?
Correct answer: A
495. A client has a peg tube. You are about to administer medication. What do you do?
Correct answer: D
Rationale: PEG, Keo- feeding, and jejunostomy tube have small bores. Only liquid
medications may be administered. When administering medication through PEG tubes,
nonsterile gloves are adequate. Tubing is flushed with water or sterile water, not saline.
Administer medications individually and flush with each drug.
496. The client went into cardiac arrest. The emergency response team is unable to secure
intravenous access quickly. The client has a nasogastric and endotracheal tube. The
emergency room physician orders epinephrine be given intravenously. What does the
nurse do first?
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Correct answer: C
497. The nurse may delegate all of the following tasks except:
Correct answer: D
Rationale: Licensed practical or vocational nurses may not administer IV push narcotics.
Unlicensed assistive personnel may not apply medications. Unlicensed assistive
personnel may not teach the client how to administer medications.
498. A client is being discharged from the hospital. He has a new oral inhaler which is used
to deliver a steroid medication. The nurse instructs the client to rinse his mouth out
after using the inhaler. She explains that rinsing is essential because:
Correct answer: C
Rationale: Inhaled steroid medications increase the risk of developing a fungal infection
in the mouth. The infection is known as candidiasis or thrush.
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499. Category X medications are:
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Category X medications are teratogenic and must not be taken during
pregnancy.
Take a break!! Pat yourself on the back!!!! You are halfway through the review!!!!
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Alendronate sodium can cause esophageal erosion and bleeding. Clients
must sit up for at least a half of an hour after taking the medication.
501. A client is receiving an infusion of an antibiotic. The client complains of itchiness and a
scratchy throat. What does the nurse do first?
Correct answer: A
Rationale: The client may be having an allergic reaction to the antibiotic. It is essential
to stop administering the medication immediately.
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502. Which of the following clients may not benefit from treatment with Streptokinase?
Correct answer: D
Rationale: Clients who have a history of recurrent streptococcal infections may have
developed antibodies which will interfere with Streptokinase.
503. The nurse instructs a client regarding the correct use of nitroglycerin sublingual tablets
before he is discharged home. The nurse tells the client:
A. Place one tablet under your tongue when you have chest pain. Wait five minutes. If
the pain persists, take another tablet. You may repeat this up to a maximum of three
tablets.
B. Place one tablet under your tongue when you're having chest pain. If the pain does
not subside within 10 or 15 minutes, call 911.
C. Place one tablet under your tongue when you're having chest pain. If the pain does
not subside within five minutes, place two tablets under your tongue.
D. Place one tablet under your tongue when you're having chest pain. Take 400 mg of
ibuprofen simultaneously as nitroglycerin may cause severe headaches.
Correct answer: B
Rationale: The American Heart Association now recommends that on one dose of
nitroglycerin be administered. They recommend calling 911 if relief is not obtained
within a few minutes.
504. All of the following are true regarding insulin administration except:
A. draw up NPH before regular insulin when combining into one syringe
B. regular and NPH insulin may be given in the same syringe
C. draw up regular insulin first when combining it with NPH in a syringe
D. do not massage the injection site after administering insulin
Correct answer: A
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Rationale: Draw regular insulin into the syringe before the NPH. Remember clear before
cloudy.
Correct answer: A
506. A client is receiving warfarin. Which of the following laboratory tests should be
monitored?
A. digoxin level
B. INR
C. fasting blood sugar
D. CBC
Correct answer: B
A. magnesium sulfate
B. lactulose
C. metformin
D. glyburide
Correct answer: B
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Rationale: Lactulose is a laxative that is used to eliminate excess ammonia from the
body. Ammonia levels rise when liver failure occurs. High ammonia levels are implicated
with hepatic encephalopathy. Early signs of hepatic encephalopathy include mental
status changes. Uncontrolled high ammonia levels result in coma and death.
508. A client has a high LDL-cholesterol reading and an unhealthy ratio of HDL to LDL
cholesterol. What supplement may be beneficial for the client?
A. thiamine
B. niacin
C. pantothenic acid
D. vitamin B12
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Niacin, vitamin B3, effectively treats hyperlipidemia. Advise the client that
niacin may cause harmless, transient flushing of the skin when administered. Flush-free
products are available over-the-counter.
509. A client received an antibiotic. He is wheezing, has hives, and swelling around the face
and throat. What medication is given first?
A. hydralazine
B. diphenhydramine
C. epinephrine
D. oxygen
Correct answer: C
510. A client is taking a proton pump inhibitor and two antibiotics. What is likely occurring?
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Correct answer: C
511. A client has neuropathic pain in the feet due to diabetes. What medication is likely to
be prescribed?
Correct answer: D
512. A client is three years old. He's hypotensive. His pulse is 42. He is cold and clammy.
What medications does the nurse anticipate administering?
Correct answer: B
Rationale: The child's heart rate and the force of contraction of his cardiac muscle must
increase to resume adequate perfusion of tissue. Atropine and epinephrine create these
outcomes.
513. This type of medicine is used to treat clients who have glaucoma. It constricts the
pupils:
A. emollient
B. miotic
C. mydriatic
D. antipyretic
Correct answer: B
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Rationale: Miotic medications constrict pupils. Therefore, they are used to treat
glaucoma. Emollients are moistening. Mydriatics dilate the pupils. Antipyretic drugs are
used to treat fevers.
A. bradycardia
B. asystole
C. ventricular fibrillation
D. choking
Correct answer: C
A. naloxone
B. sodium bicarbonate
C. epinephrine
D. adenosine
Correct answer: B
516. A client experiences hypotensive shock after cardiac arrest. What medication may be
employed to treat post-arrest shock?
A. dopamine
B. regular insulin
C. heparin
D. digoxin
Correct answer: A
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Rationale: Dopamine at an initial infusion rate of 10 to 20 µg per kilograms per minute is
used to treat post-arrest hypotensive shock. Epinephrine or norepinephrine are also
used to treat post-arrest hypotensive shock.
Correct answer: A
518. A client sustained a closed head injury. Surgery is planned to relieve intracranial
pressure. What medication is administered while in the trauma bed?
A. atropine
B. amiodarone
C. dexamethasone
D. gabapentin
Correct answer: C
A. I
B. II
C. V
D. X
Correct answer: B
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Rationale: Schedule II drugs have a high potential for abuse. A new prescription is
required for each refill. Refills may not be provided over the telephone. Medications
used to treat pain, insomnia, and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder are usually
included in this class of drugs.
520. A client is scheduled for an elective surgical procedure next week. Which supplement
should be temporarily discontinued?
A. ginkgo
B. echinacea
C. cranberry
D. vitamin D
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Ginkgo can increase bleeding time particularly when used with valproic acid,
NSAIDs, and cephalosporins. The herb is used to treat poor circulation and memory.
521. A client is being discharged from the hospital with a new prescription for Carafate.
What information is essential that the nurse provide while providing instructions
regarding the medication?
Correct answer: D
Rationale: Carafate can bind with other medicines. Therefore, it must not be taken at
the same time as other medications. Other medications may be ineffective when taken
within two hours of Carafate administration.
522. A woman who is addicted to heroin and actively using delivers a baby. Naloxone:
A. is not administered to the baby because the child may seize if the drug is
administered
B. is administered immediately upon the birth of the child
C. is administered 15 minutes after birth to mother and child
D. causes liver damage when administered to a newborn
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Correct answer: A
A. abruptio placenta
B. inadequate uterine contractions during labor
C. women who have an active genital herpes infection during labor and delivery
D. a prolapsed umbilical cord during labor
Correct answer: B
Correct answer: B
Rationale: The suffix -pril generally indicates that the medication is an ACE inhibitor.
ACE inhibitors are used to treat primary and secondary hypertension. They convert
angiotensin I to angiotensin II. It is crucial to monitor vital signs, electrolytes, creatinine
levels, and the white blood cell counts when on ACE inhibitors.
525. The nurse expects to monitor peak and trough levels when this medication is in use:
A. gentamycin
B. metoprolol
C. ranitidine
D. pantoprazole
Correct answer: A
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Rationale: Gentamycin is an aminoglycoside medication used to treat infection. It is
essential to monitor peak and trough levels of aminoglycosides to ensure that the levels
are within the therapeutic range.
526. This group of medications is used to treat digestive problems including GERD,
indigestion, and stomach ulcers:
A. cephalosporins
B. anticholinergics
C. proton pump inhibitors
D. angiotensin receptor blockers
Correct answer: C
527. The suffix -phylline often indicates that the medication is:
A. an anesthetic
B. a bronchodilator
C. a monoclonal antibody
D. a histamine 2 antagonist
Correct answer: B
528. The nurse prepares to administer promethazine intramuscularly. What does the nurse
need to know?
Correct answer: B
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Rationale: Promethazine is a phenothiazine. Phenothiazines are irritating to tissues and
must be administered via the Z track technique. Phenothiazines are classified as anti-
emetics and antipsychotic drugs.
529. Mucomyst:
A. suppresses respirations
B. thins secretions
C. relieves bronchospasm
D. dries up secretions
Correct answer: B
530. Nitroglycerin:
A. causes vasoconstriction
B. creates vasodilation
C. increases blood pressure
D. decreases the pulse rate
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Nitroglycerin causes vasodilation which reduces preload and relieves angina.
A. sulfonylureas
B. rapid acting insulins
C. basal insulins
D. intermediate-acting insulins
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Novolog and Humalog are rapid-acting insulins. Sulfonylureas are not insulin.
They are oral anti-diabetic agents. Basal insulins are long-acting. Lantus is an example of
basal insulin. NPH is intermediate-acting insulin.
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4.2C ADVERSE REACTIONS AND SIDE EFFECTS
532. A client takes fluoxetine long term. His heart rate is 170 bpm. He is confused. His
blood pressure is 200/150. The client’s pupils are dilated. His muscles are rigid and
twitching. The client's temperature is 101°F. What is the most likely cause of his
distress?
A. serotonin syndrome
B. cocaine
C. methamphetamine
D. cardiovascular accident
Correct answer: A
Rationale: The most likely cause of the symptoms is serotonin syndrome. Fluoxetine
increases serotonin levels. It is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor.
533. The nurse just administered Humalog. When is the client most at risk for developing
hypoglycemia?
A. within 15 minutes
B. within 60 to 90 minutes
C. within 3 to 4 hours
D. within 6 to 8 hours
Correct answer: B
534. A client is on doxorubicin for the treatment of cancer. She complains of pain when
eating or swallowing. The woman states that food tastes terrible. She has a white
coating in her mouth. What medication may relieve her distress?
A. nystatin
B. morphine
C. cephalexin
D. vitamin B12
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Correct answer: A
Rationale: The woman has signs and symptoms of candidiasis, thrush. It is caused by
suppression of the immune system by doxorubicin and her illness. She has an infection.
Nystatin oral suspension is indicated. The woman should swish and swallow the
medicine.
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Ringing in the ears, tingling around the mouth, and blurred vision are signs of
toxicity from local anesthesia. Nausea and vomiting are not usually signs of local
anesthesia toxicity. Respiratory depression, cardiac arrest, and seizures are late signs of
toxicity caused by local anesthesia.
536. The client takes warfarin. His INR is 3.4. He has hematuria, bruising, and bloodshot
eyes. What medication is administered?
A. Vitamin K
B. potassium
C. disulfiram
D. Heparin
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Vitamin K is the antidote for warfarin excess and toxicity. It promotes
synthesis of vitamin K dependant clotting factors.
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537. An 18-year-old female college student has a new prescription for tetracycline to treat
severe acne. What is the most critical question to ask the student before giving her
the prescription?
Correct answer: B
538. The nurse is evaluating a pregnant client. The woman has a loss of patellar reflexes.
Her respiratory rate is six. She is forgetful and complains of feeling “spacey”. She has
had a minimal urinary output for 24 hours. What medication likely caused the
symptoms?
A. prenatal vitamins
B. vitamin K
C. potassium
D. magnesium
Correct answer: D
Rationale: Magnesium causes the described symptoms. Magnesium sulfate is the drug
of choice for the prevention of eclampsia. It is administered to pregnant women who
have preeclampsia to prevent seizures.
539. A woman is receiving magnesium sulfate during pregnancy. She displays symptoms of
magnesium toxicity. What medication is administered?
Correct answer: D
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Rationale: Calcium gluconate is administered IV push over three minutes when
magnesium toxicity occurs. It is the antidote for magnesium toxicity.
A. tachycardia
B. vomiting
C. bradycardia
D. dysrhythmias
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Early signs of digoxin toxicity include lack of appetite and nausea. Vomiting
may occur as the toxicity worsens. Excess digoxin can cause bradycardia and
dysrhythmias.
A. phenobarbital
B. methotrexate
C. haloperidol
D. hydromorphone
Correct answer: C
Rationale: Haloperidol and related drugs may cause extrapyramidal symptoms and
tardive dyskinesia.
542. A man took Viagra two hours ago. He developed angina and self-administered 0.4 mg
of nitroglycerin sublingually. What is he at risk for?
A. A hypertensive crisis
B. severe hypotension
C. spasms of the coronary arteries
D. pulmonary edema
Correct answer: B
Rationale: When Viagra and nitroglycerin are in the body simultaneously, severe
hypotension may occur. They should not be used within 24 hours of each other.
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543. Children may develop Reye’s syndrome if they are given this medication when they
have a viral illness:
A. diphenhydramine
B. acetaminophen
C. aspirin
D. pseudoephedrine
Correct answer: C
Rationale: Children who have recently been infected with a viral disease, such as
chickenpox, cannot take aspirin because they may develop Reye’s syndrome. Reye’s
syndrome can result in brain damage or death. It causes swelling of the brain and liver.
Correct answer: B
Correct answer: D
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546. A client has a new prescription for nitroglycerin patches. What is a typical side effect
that the nurse teaches the client about?
A. hypertensive crisis
B. an increased risk of bruising and bleeding
C. a dry cough
D. a headache
Correct answer: D
547. A client has a prescription for a narcotic pain reliever. What does the nurse say to the
client?
Correct answer: A
548. Lidocaine, lorazepam, and sleeping medications may increase this among the elderly:
A. diarrhea
B. constipation
C. confusion
D. skin breakdown
Correct answer: C
Rationale: These medications may cause confusion when administered to older adults.
Careful monitoring is essential. The risk of falls increases when medicines that cause
confusion or drowsiness are ordered. Prescribers usually order smaller Initial doses than
they do for younger people.
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549. A client receives alprazolam. She becomes agitated, jittery, and fidgety. What is the
most likely cause of the woman's response to the medication?
Correct answer: B
550. Which of the following medications is least likely to cause gastrointestinal bleeding?
A. aspirin
B. acetaminophen
C. ibuprofen
D. enteric-coated aspirin
Correct answer: B
551. A woman takes methotrexate due to rheumatoid arthritis. The medication has many
side effects. However, the drug places her at risk for:
A. developing infections
B. losing her hair
C. hypoglycemia
D. hypertension
Correct answer: A
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Rationale: Methotrexate is a potent drug which impacts the entire body. It suppresses
immune function, therefore putting the client at risk for infection.
Take a break if you need one. When you are ready, please continue with:
A. 1000 mg
B. 1g
C. 1 mg
D. 100 mL
Correct answer: C
553. You need to administer 15 mL of cough syrup. What is the equivalent of that dose?
A. 1/2 teaspoon
B. 1 teaspoon
C. 1 tablespoon
D. 2 tablespoons
Correct answer: C
554. A client has a prescription for 30 mL of lactulose. How much is an equivalent dose?
A. 1 teaspoon
B. 1 tablespoon
C. 2 teaspoons
D. 2 tablespoons
Correct answer: D
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555. 1 teaspoon is equivalent to:
A. 2.5 mL
B. 5 mL
C. 0.5 ounces
D. 4 drams
Correct answer: B
556. An order reads give 5 mg of Roxinal PO every four hours for pain. The nurse has a
container of morphine sulfate 20 mg/mL. How much medication does the nurse
administer?
Correct answer: B
557. The medication order states, “morphine sulfate extended-release 45 mg PO BID”. The
client has chronic pain. The medication on hand is labeled morphine sulfate ER 30 mg.
What does the nurse do?
Correct answer: D
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with the 30 mg tablets, unless 45 mg tablets are available. A new order needs to be
written.
558. You have lorazepam injectable 2 mg/mL on hand. You need to give 0.5 mg of
lorazepam. How much do you give?
A. 0.25 ML
B. 0.5 ML
C. 0.75 ML
D. 2 ML
Correct answer: A
Rationale: You have 2 milligrams per ML on hand. The desired dose is 0.5 mg of
medication. Set it up as a ratio and proportion. You need to give one-fourth of a
milliliter of medication.
559. The client has patient-controlled analgesia. He has a 500-milliliter bag of normal saline
hanging. It contains 1000 mg of hydromorphone. The order reads for the client to
receive 2 mg of hydromorphone every hour via continuous infusion. The client may
receive a bolus dose of 0.5 mg every 15 minutes as needed. What is the bolus dose?
A. 0.1 mL
B. 0.2 mL
C. 0.25 mL
D. 0.5 mL
Correct answer: C
560. A client is being discharged from the hospital. He takes 81 mg of aspirin daily. The
nurse instructs the client to buy:
A. regular aspirin and teaches him to take one half of a tablet daily
B. regular aspirin and tells him to take one pill daily
C. buffered aspirin and tells him to take one pill daily
D. baby aspirin and instructs him to take one tablet daily
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Correct answer: D
561. A client states that she takes 1000 mg of Tylenol daily. She says that she takes two
tablets of the medication. The nurse says:
Correct answer: A
562. A client has been instructed to take 200 mg of ibuprofen three times a day. She has
over-the-counter Motrin at home. How many tablets should she take each day?
A. one tablet
B. zero tablets since ibuprofen and Motrin are different medications
C. zero tablets of Motrin, however, she can take three Advil tablets daily
D. three tablets
Correct answer: D
Rationale: Motrin and Advil are trade names for ibuprofen. Regular ibuprofen over-the-
counter tablets contain 200 mg of medication. The woman will take one pill three times
a day for a total of three tablets of ibuprofen.
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563. A client weighs 100 kg. How many pounds does he weigh?
A. 45
B. 120
C. 200
D. 220
Correct answer: D
A. 300 mg
B. 600 mg
C. 1200 mg
D. 2400 mg
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Divide the child's weight in pounds by 2.2 to get the weight in kilograms. A
child who weighs 44 pounds weighs 20 kg. 20 kg multiplied by 30 mg per kilogram of
medication equals 600 mg.
565. The medication order reads to administer 1200 mg of medication. How much medicine
is given?
A. 120 mL
B. 12 mL
C. 1.2 g
D. 2400 g
Correct answer: C
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566. An order reads to administer 0.125 mg of the medication. There are 0.25 mg tablets
on hand. What dose is administered?
A. one-fourth of a tablet
B. one half of a tablet
C. one tablet
D. two tablets
Correct answer: B
Rationale: 0.125 mg is one half of 0.25 mg, therefore, give one half of a tablet.
567. You have 0.25 mg tablets on hand. The dose to be administered is 0.75 mg. How many
tablets do you give?
A. 1 tablet
B. 1/2 tablet
C. 1 1/2 tablets
D. 3 tablets
Correct answer: D
568. The nurse is administering 15 units of NPH and four units of regular insulin. Describe
what this looks like.
A. There are two syringes. One contains 15 units of NPH, and the other contains four
units of regular insulin.
B. A tuberculin syringe is used. The nurse draws up 15 units of NPH and then four units
of regular insulin.
C. The nurse draws four units of regular insulin into an insulin syringe and then draws
up 15 units of NPH into the same syringe.
D. The nurse draws 15 units of NPH into an insulin syringe followed by four units of
regular insulin.
Correct answer: C
Rationale: Use an insulin syringe when administering insulin from multi-dose vials. Draw
up clear regular insulin before cloudy NPH insulin.
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569. An order reads to administer 0.25 g of a medication. How much medicine do you give?
A. 1/4 of a teaspoon
B. 250 mg
C. 25 drops
D. 250 mL
Correct answer: D
Rationale: Grams and milligrams are measures of weight. 1 g contains 1000 mg.
Therefore give 250 mg.
Correct answer: D
Rationale: The drug was handled by the client. He has the right to refuse. The drug must
be destroyed in the presence of a witness who signs according to organizational policy.
The medicine must be destroyed in compliance with regulatory and corporate rules.
A. depression
B. changes in vital signs
C. isolation
D. all of the above
Correct answer: D
Rationale: Uncontrolled chronic pain impacts every aspect of a person's life. It may
affect self-esteem, socialization, intimacy, ability to work, and health.
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572. The pain assessment tool which evaluates the quality of pain, location, precipitating
events, triggers, severity, and timing of pain is called:
A. FACES
B. McGill Pain Assessment
C. PQRST
D. Numerical
Correct answer: C
Rationale: The PQRST method considers precipitating events, quality, region, severity,
triggers, and timing of pain.
573. A client is nonverbal. He is alert and oriented. The client cannot write, but he can
gesture. What pain scale might be helpful for him?
A. Numerical
B. CRIES
C. FACES
D. PQRST
Correct answer: C
Rationale: The FACES scale is helpful. All he needs to do is point at a picture. He does
not need to provide detailed information about his pain.
574. How are doses of pain medication determined for neonates, infants, and young
children?
A. weight
B. body surface area
C. age
D. A and B are correct
Correct answer: D
Rationale: Weight and body surface area are used to determine doses of pain
medications for babies and young children.
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575. An 83-year-old man needs a narcotic for pain management. What does the nurse
anticipate?
Correct answer: D
Rationale: Older adults may be sensitive to narcotics. The initial dose may be as little as
one half the average dose that is recommended for younger adults. Older adults are at
risk for complications when they take narcotics due to changes that occur with aging.
A. opioid agonists
B. opioid antagonists
C. opioids with mixed agonist-antagonist effects
D. centrally acting non-opioids
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Most commonly used narcotic pain relievers are opioid agonists. They may
produce a wide range of side effects and adverse effects.
577. A client states that he has a pain level of 6 out of 10. The nurse administers morphine
2 mg IV. What does the nurse need to do?
Correct answer: C
Rationale: It is essential that the nurse check with the patient after pain medication is
given so that the effectiveness can be determined. The nurse needs to document the
effect of the drug. If the remedy was not adequate, action must be taken.
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578. Naloxone:
Correct answer: D
Correct answer: B
Rationale: The main reason why intravenous lines are started in the upper extremities
rather than lower is that the lower extremities are more prone to phlebitis and
thrombus formation. Having an intravenous line in the lower extremity of the
ambulatory patient can increase the risk for falls.
580. A client sustained multiple trauma in a motor vehicle accident. Which intravenous
catheter is best to use out of the following selection?
A. 16 gauge
B. 20 gauge
C. 22 gauge
D. 24 gauge
Correct answer: A
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Rationale: Clients who sustain multiple trauma need the largest bore intravenous
catheter available. A 16 gauge is preferable. However, an 18 gauge is adequate if a 16
gauge cannot be inserted.
581. A client is going to receive two units of packed red blood cells. What size intravenous
catheter should be inserted?
A. 18 gauge
B. 21 gauge
C. 22 gauge
D. Any blood may be administered through any gauge intravenous catheter
Correct answer: A
Rationale: The client needs an 18 gauge catheter. Large bore catheters are preferable
when administering blood and blood products so that they don't clog or damage the
blood cells.
582. A 97-year-old woman has an intravenous catheter placed for intermittent medication
administration. What size intravenous catheter is used?
A. 18 gauge
B. 21 gauge
C. 22 gauge
D. 24 gauge
Correct answer: D
Rationale: Insert a small bore intravenous catheter when it is only going to be used
intermittently. The woman is likely to have frail veins at her age, so the small 24 gauge
catheter is adequate.
583. A nurse just inserted an intravenous line into a client. The line is connected to a pump.
It has a continuous infusion of lactated ringer's infusing at 80 mL per hour. What
instructions does the nurse provide to the client?
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Correct answer: D
Rationale: The client needs to notify the nurse if pain or swelling occurs. Instruct the
client to call for the nurse if the pump alarms. There is no indication that this client is on
a fluid restriction.
584. A client is receiving a solution of 0.45% normal saline at 100 mL per hour. The drip
factor is 20 drops per milliliter. The IV bag holds 1000 mL. How many drops per minute
is administered?
A. 10
B. 33
C. 45
D. 66
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Drops per minute equals the volume to be infused times the drip factor,
divided by the number of minutes.
585. All of the following clients may have restricted access sites to choose from when
placing an intravenous line except for the client who has a diagnosis of:
A. CVA
B. MRSA
C. mastectomy
D. renal dialysis
Correct answer: C
Rationale: Do not insert an intravenous catheter into the arm of a client who has
paralysis or a mastectomy on that side. Do not insert an intravenous catheter into the
arm of a client who has a renal dialysis port in that arm.
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586. A nurse is caring for a client who has an IV of Ringer's lactate. The client states that
the intravenous site in the arm is sore. The nurse examines the site and finds that the
skin surrounding the site is cold and swollen. The intravenous pump keeps alarming.
The skin surrounding the insertion site is pale. What does the nurse do first?
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Classic signs of infiltration are being described. The nurse immediately turns
off the IV and removes the catheter. After that, the nurse elevates the limb on a pillow
and applies warm compresses per facility policy.
587. A client experiences hypotensive shock after cardiac arrest. What medication may be
given intravenously to treat post-arrest shock?
A. dopamine
B. regular insulin
C. heparin
D. digoxin
Correct answer: A
588. A client is in supraventricular tachycardia. The nurse obtains a medication which will
slow conduction through the AV node. The drug is given in the hope that the drug will
help reset the heart rhythm. The defibrillator is on standby. The client is positioned
supine. He is intubated and has a central line. Defibrillator pads are in place on the
client’s chest. What medication is going to be administered?
A. epinephrine
B. atropine
C. adenosine
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D. lidocaine
Correct answer: C
589. A client is receiving a continuous infusion of heparin. What lab test is needed?
A. hemoglobin
B. hematocrit
C. aPTT
D. CBC
Correct answer: C
Rationale: The aPTT evaluates the client’s clotting status. It is essential to know what
the client’s aPTT is so that the right amount of heparin may be administered. Too much
heparin may cause bleeding. An adequate amount of heparin is needed to prevent the
formation of a thrombus
590. The client has patient-controlled analgesia. He has a 500-milliliter bag of normal saline
hanging. It contains 1000 mg of hydromorphone. The order reads for the client to
receive 0.5 mg of hydromorphone every hour via continuous infusion. What does the
nurse program into the infusion pump as a basal rate?
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Administer 0.25 ml per hour. The bag contains 1000 mg of hydromorphone in
a 500 mL bag of saline. That is a concentration of 2 mg per milliliter. The desired dose is
0.5 milligrams per hour. That dose is contained in 0.25 mL.
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591. An intravenous site is infiltrated. The nurse checks, and there is no blood return. The
skin surrounding the site is painful, hot, and blistered. What is this called?
A. phlebitis
B. embolus formation
C. hematoma
D. extravasation
Correct answer: D
A. 72 hours
B. Ten days
C. four weeks
D. eight weeks
Correct answer: C
Rationale: Midline catheters can stay in place up to four weeks. Peripheral intravenous
catheters may remain in place for 72 hours.
A. brachial vein
B. cephalic vein
C. basilic vein
D. all of the above are correct
Correct answer: D
Rationale: Midline catheters can be up to 8 inches in length. They are advanced into the
cephalic, basilic, or brachial veins. Nurses should monitor their position.
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594. A client has a peripherally inserted central venous catheter, PICC, line. How often are
occlusive transparent dressings changed over the insertion site?
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Change clear, occlusive dressings which are located over central line insertion
sites every seven days or more frequently if the dressings are soiled or loose. Strict
sterile technique is crucial. The injection caps of the individual lumens are changed at
least every seven days.
595. Typical risks related to central venous catheters include all of the following except:
Correct answer: C
A. is less expensive
B. is more expensive
C. increases the risk of infection
D. B and C are correct
Correct answer: D
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Rationale: Parenteral nutrition is costly and increases the chance of infection. Infection
risks rise because TPN requires an invasive procedure and the nutrient solution contains
a high level of dextrose.
597. The nurse is changing the tubing for a client who is receiving hyperalimentation. What
happens?
Correct answer: A
Rationale: When containers or tubing are being changed the client performs the
Valsalva maneuver. The nurse rapidly conducts the procedure. This is done to prevent
emboli. Glucose levels are carefully monitored during TPN therapy.
A. Muslims
B. Jehovah's Witnesses
C. Christian scientists
D. B and C are correct
Correct answer: D
Rationale: Jehovah's Witnesses and Christian scientists do not usually accept blood
products. Plasma expanders may be used as substitutes.
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Correct answer: A
Rationale: People with type O blood are considered to be universal donors. However,
they can only receive blood from people with type O blood. People who have Rh-
negative blood do not have the Rh factor. The client needs Rh-negative blood.
600. What blood product does not need to be typed and cross-matched before it is
administered?
A. whole blood
B. packed red blood cells
C. platelets
D. fresh frozen plasma
Correct answer: D
Rationale: Fresh frozen plasma doesn't have antigen containing red blood cells
therefore typing, and crossmatching is unnecessary.
601. A nurse gives a client a unit of packed red blood cells. She inserts an 18 gauge
intravenous catheter to administer the blood through. The nurse delivers the blood
through a special blood infusion set via a Y connector. She runs normal saline with the
blood. The nurse checks the identity of the client and the blood multiple times with
the certified nursing assistant. She frequently takes vital signs. What did the nurse do
wrong?
Correct answer: D
Rationale: Only nurses can initiate and monitor blood transfusions. Nurses cannot
employ unlicensed assistive personnel to check the identity of the client or verify that
the correct blood product is being administered.
602. What is the maximum amount of time that a unit of blood should hang?
A. one hour
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B. three hours
C. four hours
D. six hours
Correct answer: C
Rationale: Blood should not hang for more than four hours. Blood products must be
promptly administered when they are obtained from the blood bank.
This concludes the unit on pharmacological and parenteral therapies. Take a break if you need
one. When you are ready, we will move on to the next section of the review.
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4.3 REDUCTION OF RISK POTENTIAL
We will examine alterations in health and methods to reduce risks. A review of alterations in
health and diagnostic tests will start us off. We will review procedures, enteral nutrition, and
oxygen delivery. We’ll wrap up the unit by discussing surgical complications. Let's get started.
A. alternative
B. primary
C. secondary
D. tertiary
Correct answer: C
A. malnutrition
B. depression
C. pneumonia
D. all of the above
Correct answer: D
Rationale: Older adults are susceptible to many health problems. They include but are
not limited to respiratory, circulatory, and gastrointestinal problems. As people grow
older, their skin becomes vulnerable to break down. Falls may occur. Sensory changes
create risks. Emotional and mental status changes may arise. Malnutrition, fluid, and
electrolyte balances may occur.
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605. All of the following indicates that a client may be depressed except:
A. poor self-esteem
B. outgoing behavior
C. anorexia
D. excess sleep
Correct answer: B
606. A client is admitted to the hospital following a motor vehicle crash. He has a history of
alcohol abuse. When is the client most likely to develop delirium tremens?
Correct answer: C
Rationale: Delirium tremens is most likely to occur within three days of termination of
heavy drinking. Signs and symptoms include tremors, mental status changes, irritability,
sensitivity to stimuli, and tonic-clonic seizures.
607. A 23-year-old female athlete has type I diabetes. Which of the following statements
indicates that the client may need further teaching?
Correct answer: A
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Rationale: Exercise should be avoided when insulin peaks as the risk of hypoglycemia
increases.
608. The nurse is screening clients for tuberculosis. She provides education to the clients.
Which of the following is not a sign of tuberculosis?
A. fatigue
B. constant thirst
C. a cough
D. lack of appetite
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Night sweats and low-grade fevers in the afternoon are a sign of tuberculosis.
Malaise, fatigue, weight loss, productive cough, and a lack of appetite are other signs.
Hemoptysis occurs with advanced disease.
609. All of the following are goals of healthy people 2020 initiative except:
Correct answer: C
Rationale: The goal is to promote the health of people across the lifespan. Other goals
of healthy people 2020 include helping people live longer healthier lives, establishing
health equity, and creating healthy environments.
610. Pender’s health promotion model includes all the following variables which impact
health except:
A. behavioral outcomes
B. behavior specific thoughts and affect
C. individual experiences and characteristics
D. personal history of diseases
Correct answer: D
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Rationale: Pender's health promotion model lists three variables that impact health
behavior. They include individual’s experiences and characteristics; cognition and effect
as they relate to behavior, and outcomes of behavior.
611. The trans-theoretical model of change identifies each of the following stages except
A. pre-contemplative
B. contemplative
C. action
D. maintenance
Correct answer: A
Rationale: The trans-theoretical model of change identifies four stages. They are
contemplation, determination, action, and maintenance.
612. The following health promotion activities are appropriate for people age 65 and over:
A. immunizations
B. nutrition
C. depression screening
D. All of the above
Correct answer: D
Correct answer: D
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Rationale: Health screenings detect disease at early stages. This enables prompt
treatment. Early detection and treatment limits the impact a disease has on a person's
quality of life and can favorably improve outcomes.
614. People with limited access to healthcare, high-quality food, and safe, affordable
housing in a community. Adults drink heavily and smoke cigarettes. Children are often
unsupervised. What kind of population is this?
A. immigrant
B. uneducated
C. uncaring
D. vulnerable
Correct answer: D
Rationale: Community members at an increased risk for health problems are considered
to be a vulnerable population.
Correct answer: C
Rationale: The Omaha classification system is used to create care plans for communities
or care plans for individuals in their specific community environment.
616. A home health nurse is establishing care for a 90-year-old woman who just returned
to her home after being discharged from a skilled nursing facility where she was
receiving rehabilitation services following a total hip replacement. The nurse
evaluates all of the following when making a safety assessment of the woman's home
except:
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Correct answer: A
617. A worker splashes a cleaning product in her eyes. Her eyes are red. She says that they
are tearing and burning. What does the nurse first help the worker to do?
Correct answer: A
Rationale: When a substance is splashed into the eyes, the priority is to rinse the eyes
thoroughly. This is done to prevent tissue damage.
A. hyper-resonance
B. tympany
C. dullness
D. flatness
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Overly inflated alveoli and rigid structures can create a loud sound known as
hyper-resonance. Tympany is heard over the stomach when it is percussed. Dullness is
heard when a solid organ is percussed. Musculoskeletal tissues sound flat. Healthy lungs
have a hollow sound known as resonance.
619. A client injured his ankle. The ankle is assessed by physical examination. Information
is obtained regarding the origin of the injury. An x-ray of the ankle is taken. A
diagnosis and treatment plan is formulated. What kind of health assessment is
conducted?
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A. incomplete
B. comprehensive
C. focused
D. health history
Correct answer: C
620. A client is going to surgery. The nurse obtains a set of baseline vital signs immediately
before anesthesia is given. Why?
A. baseline vital signs provide information which allows practitioners to evaluate the
impact of procedures
B. a lack of baseline vital signs may directly create complications for the client
C. the baseline vital signs are only useful to meet documentation requirements
D. the baseline vital signs are only needed to meet industry standards
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Baseline vital signs are obtained before many procedures. Knowing what a
person's baseline vital signs help practitioners to identify deviations quickly. Having
baseline vital signs allows providers to accurately assess the impact of a procedure or
medication on a client.
621. Rectal temperatures are contraindicated for all of the following clients except the
person who has:
A. epilepsy
B. heart disease
C. a recent hemorrhoidectomy
D. dementia
Correct answer: D
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622. Which of the following clients should the nurse evaluate first?
Correct answer: C
Rationale: The toddler who is respiratory rate is 14 needs to be evaluated first. The
normal respiratory rate for toddlers is between 20 and 40 breaths per minute. All of the
other children have respiratory rates which are within normal limits for their ages.
623. Which of the following clients should the nurse evaluate first?
Correct answer: A
Rationale: The newborn should be assessed first. All of the other people have pulse
rates which are within normal limits for their age. A newborn’s pulse rate should be
between 80-180 bpm.
624. Which of the following clients should the nurse evaluate first?
Correct answer: C
Rationale: All of the children have blood pressures within normal limits for their age
except for the toddler. The normal blood pressure range for toddlers is from 80 to 112
mm Hg systolic and 50 to 80 mm Hg diastolic.
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625. What is the normal range of intracranial pressure measured in millimeters of mercury?
A. 1-5
B. 3 -12
C. 5-15
D. 10 -20
Correct answer: C
626. The following are signs and symptoms of increased intracranial pressure except:
A. decorticate posturing
B. narrowing pulse pressure
C. seizures
D. a headache
Correct answer: B
627. The client has a bronchoscopy. The nurse does all of the following except:
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Dye is not necessary when bronchoscopy is performed. The nurse carries out
the other activities to ensure the client safety and comfort following the bronchoscopy.
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628. A fetal heart rate that is less than the baseline is called a
A. deceleration
B. acceleration
C. variable
D. nadir
Correct answer: A
Rationale: A fetal heart rate that is less than the baseline is called deceleration.
Decelerations may occur at various times. They may be episodic or prolonged. The
baseline fetal heart rate is the average rate measured over a 10-minute period that does
not have significant variability.
A. 80 to 100 bpm
B. 90 to 120 bpm
C. 110 to 160 bpm
D. 120 to 180 bpm
Correct answer: C
Rationale: The normal fetal heart rate is between 110 and 160 bpm excluding
accelerations, decelerations, or variability measured over a 10-minute period.
A. arrhythmias
B. pneumonia
C. compartment syndrome
D. disseminated intravascular coagulation, DIC
Correct answer: A
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631. A client had a spinal tap. The nurse instructs the unlicensed assistive personnel to
position the client:
A. prone
B. flat
C. on the left side
D. with the head of the bed elevated 30°
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Clients must be kept flat after a spinal tap. They can develop a spinal
headache or complications otherwise.
632. A nurse prepares to insert a nasogastric tube. How does she measure the length of
tube to be inserted?
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Measure from the earlobe to the nose to the base of the xiphoid process
when inserting a nasogastric tube. Mark the length before inserting the tube. Secure the
tube after determining it is placed correctly.
A. pulse oximeter
B. glucometer
C. central venous pressure monitor
D. Doppler
Correct answer: D
Rationale: Use a Doppler when peripheral pulses are difficult or impossible to palpate.
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634. Which of the following tests is used to evaluate blood flow and the health of blood
vessels?
A. MRI
B. MRA
C. CT
D. Skull x-ray
Correct answer: B
Rationale: MRA stands for magnetic resonance angiography. It is used to assess blood
flow and the health of blood vessels. It can be used instead of conventional
angiography. The test does not require contrast medium, so it may be used for
individuals who cannot receive a conventional angiogram.
Correct answer: D
Rationale: None of the clients can have an MRI except for the trauma victim because
the others have metal objects in their bodies.
636. Which of the following clients should not receive nuclear contrast agents for tests?
Correct answer: B
Rationale: People who have acute or chronic severe kidney disease should not be given
nuclear contrast agents for tests.
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637. Exercise stress tests are useful for identifying:
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Many cardiac symptoms only occur during periods of activity. Exercise stress
tests can precipitate symptoms. Clients are closely monitored. A continuous EKG
measurement occurs while the client exercises on a treadmill or stationary bicycle.
Clients who are unable to exercise may be given a chemical stress test instead.
Correct answer: C
Rationale: A hemoglobin A1C test equal to or greater than 6.5% is indicative of diabetes.
The normal range for a fasting blood sugar is between 70 and 99. Random blood sugars
less than 140 are within normal limits. A two-hour oral glucose tolerance test over 200
indicates diabetes.
A. 2-4
B. 5 to 10
C. 10 to 13.5
D. 12 to 18.5
Correct answer: C
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Rationale: The normal PT range is 10 to 13.5. The prothrombin time, PT, is used to
evaluate clotting and bleeding.
640. A client takes warfarin. What is the normal INR range for people who take
anticoagulants?
A. 0.8-1.2
B. 1-3.5
C. 2-4
D. 3-5.5
Correct answer: C
Rationale: The normal INR range for people who take anticoagulants is usually 2 to 4.
People who do not receive anticoagulants have a normal INR range of 0.8 to 1.2.
A. 50
B. 100
C. 150
D. 200
Correct answer: C
A. less than 35
B. less than 50
C. greater than 50
D. none of the above
Correct answer: C
Rationale: HDL cholesterol levels should be above 50. HDL-cholesterol levels below 35
are very unhealthy. Very low-density cholesterol levels should be below 35. LDL levels
should be below 130. The proportion of HDL to LDL is important.
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643. What is the normal range for pH in arterial blood?
A. 0.25-1.45
B. 6.45-7.48
C. 7.38-7.42
D. 22 -28
Correct answer: C
Rationale: The normal range for pH in arterial blood is 7.38 to 7.42. Lower levels
indicate acidosis. Higher levels indicate alkalosis.
A. 0.8-1.3
B. 1.5-2
C. 135-145
D. 8-21
Correct answer: D
A. 8 to 12 g/dL
B. 12 to 15 g/dL
C. 13 to 17 g/dL
D. 14 to 19 g/dL
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Hemoglobin levels for women should be between 12 and 15. Hemoglobin
levels for men should be between 13 and 17. A normal hematocrit for women is
between 36 and 47%. The normal hematocrit for men is between 40 and 52%.
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646. A nurse draws blood from a central line. All of the following steps are correct except:
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Discard a small amount of blood before obtaining the blood that will be used
for the sample when drawing blood from a central line.
647. All of the following clients are likely to be at high risk for low albumin levels except
the person who has this diagnosis:
A. malnutrition
B. burns
C. fractured femur
D. stage IV kidney disease
Correct answer: C
Rationale: Clients with kidney disease, severe burns, or are malnourished likely to have
low levels of albumin. Serum albumin is a valuable test for evaluating those conditions.
A. capnography
B. x-ray
C. aspiration with a bulb syringe
D. auscultating bilateral lung sounds
Correct answer: C
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tube is placed correctly. The chest should rise and fall symmetrically when an ET tube is
placed correctly.
Correct answer: C
Rationale: It is likely the client has a mucous plug obstructing the inner cannula. The
nurse removes the inner cannula of the tube. She removes the mucous plug.
650. A client is receiving intermittent nasogastric tube feedings. Before administering the
next feeding, the nurse does all of the following except:
Correct answer: D
Rationale: It is essential the nurse aspirate and measure residual stomach contents
before administering a tube feeding. The abdomen should be assessed for distention.
The head of the bed must be elevated at least 30° to prevent aspiration. The head of the
bed should remain elevated after the feeding concludes.
651. The nurse is providing discharge instructions to the parent of an eight-year-old boy.
The boy's arm has a new cast on it due to a fracture of the radius and ulna. The nurse
instructs the parent to follow all of these instructions except:
A. make sure the cast isn't too tight by slipping one finger between the cast and skin
B. keep the cast out of water
C. use a sling and swath for comfort if the child desires them
D. evaluate circulation by checking for mobility of the child's fingers
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Correct answer: A
Rationale: The parent should be able to insert two or three fingers between the cast
and the child’s skin. If the parent cannot do that, the cast may be too tight.
652. A client had a cast on his upper arm. It was too tight. The arm sustained severe
damage. This is likely due to:
A. A blood clot
B. compartment syndrome
C. frozen shoulder
D. infection
Correct answer: B
Correct answer: D
Rationale: Whenever an invasive procedure or indwelling tube is placed in the body, the
possibility of infection increases. Sometimes chest tubes drain purulent secretions from
the pleural cavity, but that is not their primary purpose.
654. A client is receiving peritoneal dialysis. The nurse must monitor all of the following
laboratory results due to effects from the dialysate used except:
A. protein
B. lipids
C. glucose
D. iron
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Correct answer: D
Rationale: The dialysate may remove protein from the blood. Glucose and lipid levels
may rise.
655. A client has a chest tube. The nurse notes that the water in the water seal chamber is
fluctuating. What does the nurse do?
A. cover the chest tube insertion site with an airtight dressing and apply pressure
B. clamp the tubing
C. increase the amount of suction
D. documents the findings
Correct answer: D
Rationale: The nurse documents the findings. The wave-like action indicates the chest
tube and drainage system are functioning correctly.
656. All of the following actions are correct when nasally suctioning a person, except:
A. insert the catheter to a depth which measures the length from the client’s earlobe
to the tip of his nose
B. apply suction only when withdrawing the catheter
C. suction while inserting the catheter in the nostrils
D. hyper oxygenate the client before, during, and after the procedure
Correct answer: C
Rationale: Apply suction when the catheter is being withdrawn. The maximum amount
of time that each active suction occurs is limited to 10 or 15 seconds.
657. A client is anxious and claustrophobic. She has a diagnosis of COPD. What is the best
oxygen delivery device to use for this client?
A. nasal cannula
B. non-rebreather mask
C. simple face mask
D. Half face mask
Correct answer: A
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Rationale: Clients with COPD use low flow oxygen which is efficiently delivered via the
nasal cannula. Masks may increase claustrophobia and anxiety.
658. The client is on a ventilator. He is in a deep coma. The high-pressure alarm keeps going
off. Which of the following is unlikely to be causing the warning?
Correct answer: A
659. A client’s chest tube is being pulled. The nurse does all of the following except:
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Pain medication is administered before chest tube removal because the
procedure can be painful or uncomfortable. The narcotic may also help the client to
relax. A dressing should be applied after the chest tube is removed. The nurse provides
emotional support and education throughout the process. The nurse instructs the client
to perform the Valsalva maneuver or hold a deep breath in while the tube is being
removed. This is done to prevent an air embolism.
660. A client is having a paracentesis performed because of ascites. The nurse expects the
client will experience all the following after the procedure except:
A. increased comfort
B. further lung expansion
C. decreased girth
D. chest discomfort
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Correct answer: D
Rationale: Paracentesis is used to relieve ascites. Clients feel less bloated and more
comfortable after the procedure. They can breathe easier. Abdominal girth decreases.
Paracentesis is helpful but is not curative. Some experts believe that it is not beneficial
at the end of life.
661. A client has a tracheostomy. What does the nurse keep readily available?
A. Crash cart
B. Ambu bag
C. spare tracheostomy tube
D. telemetry
Correct answer: C
662. The client has a fracture. It is being treated with skeletal traction and external fixation.
The nurse is providing pin site care. The nurse observes that the skin around the pin is
swollen, drainage is present, and a pin is loose. The nurse continues to assess the
client. She contacts the physician because the client is demonstrating signs of:
A. compartment syndrome
B. infection
C. pressure ulcer formation
D. poor alignment of the fracture
Correct answer: B
Rationale: The client has signs of infection. The physician must be contacted for further
orders.
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4.3F POTENTIAL COMPLICATIONS FROM SURGERY
663. What is the most common cause of postoperative hypoxemia?
A. infection
B. atelectasis
C. aspiration
D. bronchospasm
Correct answer: B
664. What is the proper position to place an unconscious client in while they are recovering
from general anesthesia?
A. Semi-Fowler’s
B. Trendelenburg
C. Lateral
D. High Fowler’s
Correct answer: C
Rationale: Client should be positioned laterally. They should lie on their sides in case
they vomit. This is known as the recovery position.
665. The most common cardiovascular problems which arise in the PACU are all of the
following except:
A. hypertension
B. hypotension
C. pulmonary emboli
D. dysrhythmias
Correct answer: C
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Rationale: The most common cardiovascular problems encountered in the PACU are
hypertension, hypotension, and dysrhythmias.
666. Which of the following clients is most likely to develop postoperative cognitive
dysfunction?
A. a two-week-old baby
B. a three-year-old
C. a 45-year-old
D. an 87-year-old
Correct answer: D
Rationale: Postoperative cognitive dysfunction almost always occurs in older adults. The
client's age, a presence of infection, comorbidities, surgical complications, and duration
exposed to anesthesia contribute to the development of postoperative cognitive
dysfunction.
667. A nurse is caring for a client who had abdominal surgery three days ago. The nurse
notes a substantial increase in the amount of drainage while changing the dressing.
The wound edges that were approximated yesterday are separated. What is
occurring?
A. dehiscence
B. the normal progression of wound healing
C. infection
D. evisceration
Correct answer: A
668. A client had prostate surgery. He has continuous bladder irrigation running. The
urinary drainage bag contains bright red fluid and small clots. The nurse determines
the clots are not obstructing the drainage. What does the nurse do?
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D. disconnect and flush the tubing
Correct answer: A
Rationale: The nurse increases the rate of the continuous bladder irrigation. There is no
reason to stop the irrigation or notify the surgeon. The nurse will irrigate the system if
an obstruction occurs due to a clot. The nurse should inform the surgeon when
obstructions don’t clear with irrigation.
669. A client received bupivacaine, Marcaine, during surgery. The nurse monitors the client
postoperatively for:
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Bupivacaine and Marcaine are used for regional nerve blocks. Side effects
include seizures, a metallic taste in the mouth, ringing in the ears, and numbness around
the mouth.
A. it occurs when the edges of the surgical wound are no longer intact
B. swelling of the surgical site
C. abdominal organs protrude through a surgical wound that is no longer intact
D. prolonged vomiting
Correct answer: C
Rationale: Wound dehiscence occurs when a surgical incision reopens, and the
abdominal organs protrude through it. The nurse obtains immediate assistance and
covers the wound with a sterile dressing which is saturated with normal saline. The
surgeon is notified. The client is monitored continuously and placed supine. Position a
pillow under the client’s hips and knees to relieve pressure on the abdomen and
enhance comfort. Do not reinsert the organs back into the abdominal cavity.
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671. Signs of postoperative infection include all of the following except:
A. fever
B. elevated white blood count
C. decreased hemoglobin and hematocrit
D. pain
Correct answer: C
Rationale: Postoperative signs of infection include fever, elevated white blood count,
increased pain, increased drainage, the presence of pus along the incision, redness in
the area of the incision, puffiness of the wound, and a foul odor.
When you're ready, we are going to begin the final unit of review questions. The only task left
after we complete this unit is to do the 200 mixed questions. So let’s get started on the last
review unit.
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4.4 PHYSIOLOGICAL ADAPTATION
We will begin by reviewing hemodynamics and fluid balance. Most of our time will be spent
discussing specific body systems. We will talk about managing illness and unexpected responses
to treatment. The final topic will be medical emergencies.
4.4A HEMODYNAMICS
672. All of the following are signs of decreased cardiac output except:
A. polyuria
B. dyspnea
C. hypotension
D. decreased central venous pressure
Correct answer: A
Correct answer: D
Rationale: Normal sinus rhythm has a rate of 60 to 100 bpm. It originates from the
sinoatrial node of the heart. There is a regular rhythm of the atria and ventricles. P
waves are seen on an EKG strip before each QRS complex. The PR interval is from 0.12
to 0.2 seconds. QRS complexes last from 0.06 to 0.12 seconds.
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674. Pain, cocaine, and hyperthyroidism are most likely to precipitate:
A. sinus bradycardia
B. sinus tachycardia
C. 3rd° heart block
D. first-degree atrioventricular heart block
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Hypertension, fever, stress, and pain may precipitate the onset of sinus
tachycardia. Cardiovascular disease, electrolyte imbalances, cocaine, nicotine, caffeine,
and alcohol can cause sinus tachycardia. Sinus tachycardia looks like sinus rhythm on an
EKG strip except that it has a rate of over 100 per minute. Clients may be asymptomatic.
Oxygen should be administered if they are symptomatic due to increased demands on
the heart.
675. All of the following are used to treat atrial fibrillation except:
A. epinephrine
B. cardioversion
C. calcium channel blockers
D. digoxin
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Atrial fibrillation is treated with beta blockers, calcium channel blockers, and
oxygen. Digoxin and verapamil are also employed. Cardioversion may be needed. Anti-
thrombolytic medications may be administered due to the risk of clot formation.
A. administer CPR
B. initiate ACLS protocols
C. administer lidocaine
D. A and B are correct
Correct answer: D
Rationale: The presence of an agonal rhythm is a grave sign. Most clients do not recover
when agonal rhythm occurs. CPR and ACLS protocols are initiated.
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677. A rhythm strip shows downward and upward deflections of wide QRS complexes. The
QT interval is prolonged. The rate is between 150 and 250 bpm. The PR interval is not
measurable. What is the rhythm?
Correct answer: D
Rationale: A rhythm strip with long QT intervals and upward and downward deflections
of the QRS complexes is characteristic of Torsades de Pointes. QRS complexes are wide.
The QT interval is prolonged. The rate is between 150 and 250 bpm. The PR interval is
not measurable. The rhythm may be regular or irregular. Torsades de Pointes may occur
as a result of hypokalemia, tricyclic antidepressant overdose, or hypomagnesemia. The
rhythm may correct itself. However, it can lead to ventricular fibrillation. Signs and
symptoms include shortness of breath, nausea, chest pain, and loss of consciousness.
Treatment includes BLS and ACLS protocols. Magnesium sulfate and cardioversion may
be implemented. The underlying cause must be treated.
Correct answer: A
679. Hyperkalemia occurs most often among individuals who have the following diagnoses:
A. renal disease
B. congestive heart failure
C. C. difficile infection
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D. ketoacidosis
Correct answer: A
Rationale: The clients most at risk for developing hyperkalemia have renal disease. Mild
hyperkalemia is treated with restricting the intake of foods that contain potassium.
Severe hyperkalemia can be life-threatening. It is treated with medications that reduce
potassium levels. Dialysis may be necessary.
A. vitamin D deficiency
B. hyperparathyroidism
C. corticosteroids
D. all of the above
Correct answer: D
681. All of the following clients have a risk of developing hypomagnesemia except the
person who has a diagnosis of:
A. Addison's disease
B. burns
C. congestive heart failure
D. Crohn's disease
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Clients who lose fluids due to medication or illnesses are at risk of losing
magnesium. People who have burns, chronic diarrhea, prolonged vomiting risk fluid and
magnesium depletion. Clients who take diuretics, cyclosporines, proton pump inhibitors,
and aminoglycosides are also at risk.
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682. Signs of hypervolemia include:
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Hypervolemia occurs as a result of too much fluid in the blood. Hypervolemia
is also known as fluid overload or fluid volume excess. Signs of hypervolemia include
high blood pressure, shortness of breath, rales, crackles, ascites, distended neck veins,
peripheral edema, and tachycardia.
A. allergic reaction
B. scabies
C. shingles
D. acne
Correct answer: A
A. melanoma
B. squamous cell
C. basal cell
D. keratosis
Correct answer: A
Rationale: The most serious type of skin cancer is melanoma. Its precise cause is not
known. Genetics and sun exposure are contributing factors. Lesions are most commonly
found on the lower legs and backs of women and the head, neck, and trunk of men.
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685. The client presents to the emergency room. His left lower leg is hot, tender, and
swollen. The client has a fever of 101°F. He has chills and fatigue. What is a likely
cause of the client’s distress?
A. folliculitis
B. candidiasis
C. cellulitis
D. carbuncles
Correct answer: C
686. The head nurse is creating assignments. A client has a herpes zoster infection. Which
of the following staff members should not care for the client?
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Herpes zoster infections, shingles, are highly contagious. People who have
never had chickenpox or been vaccinated against chickenpox or shingles should not care
for clients who have shingles. Pregnant women cannot care for clients who have herpes
zoster infections.
687. A pediatric client has scabies. Which of the following instructions are given?
Correct answer: D
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Rationale: Scabies is treated with 5% permethrin lotion. It needs to be reapplied after
one week. Lesions are very itchy, particularly at night. Burrows may be present. Scabies
are not usually found on the face. The entire household must be treated. Linens must be
washed carefully.
Correct answer: B
689. What is the highest priority emergency treatment for tension pneumothorax?
Correct answer: C
690. A client sustained injuries to his chest in a motor vehicle accident. He is having
respiratory distress with paradoxical movements of the chest wall. A chest x-ray
reveals multiple fractured ribs. What is this condition?
A. flail chest
B. cardiac tamponade
C. hemothorax
D. open pneumothorax
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Correct answer: A
Rationale: Paradoxical movements of the chest coupled with multiple fractured ribs are
classic signs of flail chest. The client may have other issues such as hemothorax, but the
description is consistent with a flail chest.
691. The classic triad of symptoms characteristic of a pulmonary embolism includes all of
the following except:
A. chest pain
B. shortness of breath
C. hemoptysis
D. fever
Correct answer: D
A. COPD
B. acute MI
C. pneumonia
D. pulmonary embolism
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Most cases of cor pulmonale are due to COPD. Pulmonary hypertension
creates extra pressure on the right ventricle of the heart and the right ventricle
enlarges.
693. A client had a lung transplant one week ago. She is showing signs of rejection. What
kind of medication is needed?
A. aminoglycoside
B. beta blocker
C. calcium channel blocker
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D. corticosteroid
Correct answer: D
Rationale: Acute rejection following lung transplant is common. The client needs three
days of intravenous corticosteroid therapy.
694. Smokers and clients who work in dusty, environmentally poor environments are likely
to develop lung tissues which are characterized by:
A. fibrosis
B. pulmonary hypertension
C. pulmonary edema
D. the collapse of the alveoli
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Environmental toxins and cigarette smoke create chronic inflammation in the
lung tissues. Scarring and fibrosis develop.
695. A client comes to the emergency department in respiratory distress due to asthma.
Upon arrival, the nurse hears widespread wheezing when he auscultates the client’s
lungs. Medications are administered. The client remains in distress, but the wheezing
stops. His chest is silent when the nurse auscultates it. This indicates that:
Correct answer: C
Rationale: The absence of wheezing in the presence of a silent chest and dyspnea can
indicate a medical emergency. The client may need mechanical ventilation.
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696. A nurse is providing instructions to a client who has a new prescription for a dry
powder inhaler. The nurse instructs the client to do all of the following except:
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Clients need to hold their breath for 10 seconds or longer if they can when
using an inhaler.
697. This may develop among clients who have advanced COPD as the body tries to
compensate for chronic hypoxemia:
A. polycythemia
B. pernicious anemia
C. thalassemia
D. macrocytic anemia
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Polycythemia may develop as the body attempts to compensate for low
oxygen levels in the blood. Hemoglobin concentrations may be high. However, chronic
anemia may develop simultaneously.
A. smoking
B. sedentary lifestyle
C. age
D. high sodium diet
Correct answer: C
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Rationale: Smoking, sedentary lifestyle, advanced age, and a high sodium diet can
increase the likelihood of hypertension. Modifiable risks can be changed. The client's
age cannot be changed.
699. A client is hospitalized with a hypertensive crisis. Which of the following medications
is indicated?
A. sodium nitroprusside
B. warfarin
C. atropine
D. epinephrine
Correct answer: A
A. lung cancer
B. breast cancer
C. coronary artery disease
D. COPD
Correct answer: C
Rationale: The leading cause of death among women in the United States regardless of
age, race, or cultural background is coronary artery disease. More women than men die
of sudden cardiac death before reaching the hospital.
701. All of the following supplements are used to enhance cardiovascular health except:
A. echinacea
B. red yeast rice
C. garlic
D. omega-3 fatty acids
Correct answer: A
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Rationale: Many herbs and supplements improve cardiovascular health. Red yeast rice,
garlic, omega-3 fatty acids, ginkgo, plant sterols, niacin, and flaxseed are among the
beneficial supplements. Echinacea is primarily used to support immune health.
A. CBC
B. renal function tests
C. liver function tests
D. PT/PTT
Correct answer: C
Rationale: Statins work in the liver. Liver damage and myopathy may occur. Clients must
be monitored for the presence of muscular weakness or aches. Coenzyme Q 10 is a
valuable supplement to take when statins are administered.
703. A client takes cholestyramine, Questran. The nurse provides the client with all the
following information except:
Correct answer: D
704. Which of the following clients is most likely to experience silent ischemia?
Correct answer: C
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Rationale: People with diabetes are most likely to experience silent ischemia due to
neuropathy.
A. chronic stable
B. Prinzmetal’s
C. microvascular
D. unstable
Correct answer: D
A. hypercholesterolemia
B. congestive heart failure
C. uncontrolled diabetes
D. thrombus formation
Correct answer: D
707. How long does it take for cardiac cells to die due to ischemia?
A. one minute
B. six minutes
C. twenty minutes
D. one hour
Correct answer: C
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Rationale: Cell death from ischemia occurs within 20 minutes. The innermost tissue dies
first. It may take up to 12 hours for the full thickness of the myocardium to become
necrotic.
A. phenytoin is an anticonvulsant
B. phenytoin is incompatible with saline
C. the medication must be slowly given if administered via IV push
D. if the child goes home with a prescription for the medicine, drug levels must be
monitored
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Phenytoin, Dilantin, is not compatible with dextrose. It must be given with
saline or else a precipitate will form.
709. A woman calls the emergency department. She states that her three-year-old
daughter is having a febrile seizure. The seizure has lasted for 10 minutes. What does
the nurse instruct the woman to do?
Correct answer: C
Rationale: The woman should call 911 since the febrile seizure has lasted more than five
minutes. The nurse can initiate the call to 911. The woman should not drive the child to
the hospital herself.
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710. A child has a shunt to treat hydrocephalus. The nurse advises the parents that the
main problem(s) encountered with shunts is/are:
A. infection
B. malfunction
C. A and B are correct
D. none of the above
Correct answer: C
Rationale: The most common problems with shunts are infection and malfunction. The
shunt may move, separate, or kink. Infection can be serious. It is most likely to occur
within 1 to 2 months after placement.
711. An 87-year-old woman has been caring for her 93-year-old husband. She brings him to
the hospital and states “I can't take care of him anymore. I am exhausted”. What is
the nursing diagnosis for the woman?
A. ineffective coping
B. caregiver role strain
C. anxiety
D. defensive coping
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Caregivers may become exhausted and ill if they do not have adequate
support. The woman has signs of caregiver role strain.
A. cancer
B. accidents
C. suicide
D. all of the above
Correct answer: D
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713. Stress:
Correct answer: A
714. The client had a stroke. A clot developed in an artery due to a buildup of plaque. What
kind of stroke did the client have?
A. thrombotic-ischemic
B. embolic-ischemic
C. intracerebral-hemorrhagic
D. subarachnoid-hemorrhagic
Correct answer: A
715. A client presented to the emergency room with a stroke. The use of tPA is being
considered. What needs to occur before the decision can be made?
Correct answer: D
Rationale: tPA is only administered when the onset of the stroke was within a few
hours. An MRI or CT of the brain needs to be performed to rule out a hemorrhagic
stroke. Clients who sustained recent trauma or who are at risk for bleeding may not
receive tPA unless the risk is outweighed by the benefit.
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716. Which of the following medications should not be stopped abruptly due to a risk of
seizures?
A. sumatriptan
B. topiramate
C. fiorinal
D. paroxetine
Correct answer: B
717. A client has had continuous seizure activity for two hours. He is having tonic-clonic
seizures. The client is hypoxic. He has a fever of 102. He is acidotic and having
dysrhythmias. What type of seizure activity is he having?
A. myoclonic
B. tonic
C. atonic
D. status epilepticus
Correct answer: D
Rationale: The client is experiencing status epilepticus. It is the most severe type of
seizure and can be fatal.
A. upon birth
B. between six and 18 months
C. between ages one and two years
D. before admission to kindergarten
Correct answer: C
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Rationale: The Centers for Disease Control recommends all children be screened for
lead between the ages of one and two years. Children who are between the ages of
three and six should be tested if they have not been previously.
719. A child consumed an unknown quantity of multivitamins. The daycare provider called
the physician's office asking what to do. All of the following are correct statements
regarding the ingestion of the vitamins except:
Correct answer: D
720. An eight-month-old baby has severe abdominal pain. He passes stools which look like
cranberry jelly. What is a possible medical diagnosis?
A. celiac disease
B. imperforate anus
C. appendicitis
D. intussusception
Correct answer: D
721. Which of the following women have a higher than average likelihood of delivering a
baby who has a cleft lip?
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Correct answer: D
Rationale: Phenytoin and smoking contribute to the occurrence of cleft lip. Other
anticonvulsants and consumption of alcohol during pregnancy may also be factors.
A. hookworms
B. trichinosis
C. pinworms
D. giardia
Correct answer: C
Rationale: The tape test is used to detect pinworms. A loop of double-sided transparent
tape is applied to a tongue depressor. The tongue depressor is gently applied to a child's
anal area upon waking in the morning.
A. hemorrhagic colitis
B. renal failure
C. abdominal cramping
D. all of the above
Correct answer: D
Rationale: Infection with E. coli can lead to hemorrhagic colitis, abdominal cramping,
renal failure, and hemolytic uremic syndrome.
724. A client has chronic peptic ulcer disease. He had an onset of upper abdominal pain
which developed suddenly. His abdomen is rigid. He has nausea and vomiting. The
client is tachycardic and hypotensive. Which is a likely cause of his distress?
A. dyspepsia
B. perforation
C. gastric outlet obstruction
D. hemorrhage
Correct answer: B
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Rationale: The client is displaying symptoms of perforation. Perforation has a rapid
onset.
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Routine colorectal screening should begin at age 50 for both sexes.
Colonoscopy is the gold standard for screening for colorectal cancer. Testing is
necessary because symptoms do not usually appear until the disease is advanced.
726. Which of the following foods is acceptable for a client with a diagnosis of celiac
disease to eat?
A. oatmeal
B. corn chips
C. spaghetti
D. whole-wheat bread
Correct answer: B
Rationale: The client can eat corn. Oats spaghetti and whole-wheat bread contain
gluten. Therefore, they must be avoided. Gluten-free cereals, bread, and pasta are
available.
727. A client has a diagnosis of diverticulitis. He may eat all of the following foods except:
A. almonds
B. whole-grain cereals
C. fried chicken
D. popcorn
Correct answer: C
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Rationale: People with diverticular disease need to consume high-fiber foods. A low-fat
diet should be eaten. Avoiding seeds and nuts is not necessary. Red meat should be
limited or avoided.
A. unsanitary conditions
B. contaminated food and water
C. infected food handlers
D. all of the above
Correct answer: D
A. IV drug use
B. sexual activity
C. being born to an infected mother
D. contaminated food
Correct answer: D
Rationale: Hepatitis B is primarily spread through sexual activity and IV drug use. Babies
born to infected mothers may contract the disease during birth.
Correct answer: A
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Rationale: Clients with acute hepatitis experience right upper quadrant pain. Other
signs and symptoms of acute hepatitis include pruritus, dark-colored urine, weight loss,
anorexia, nausea, and vomiting. Stools are light in color. There may be diarrhea or
constipation. Malaise, fever, headache, and joint pain may also be present. The spleen
and liver may be enlarged.
731. The complication from cirrhosis which requires emergent care is:
Correct answer: A
732. A client has acute pancreatitis. Which of the following hematology values is likely to
be present?
A. decreased triglycerides
B. increased amylase
C. reduced lipase
D. reduced glucose
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Clients with acute pancreatitis have elevated levels of amylase, lipase,
glucose, and triglycerides.
A. discard the first voided urine and then start the collection.
B. do not use the first voided specimen in the morning as it contains epithelial cells
C. catheterize immediately after voiding
D. obtain the first voided specimen in the morning
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Correct answer: A
Rationale: A 24-hour urine begins by discarding a sample. The collection starts after the
first discarded specimen. A 24-hour urine may start at any time. If any urine is
inadvertently discarded, the collection is terminated, discarded and restarted. Some
samples need refrigeration or additives.
734. All of the following increase the likelihood of kidney stone development except:
Correct answer: D
Rationale: Clients who live in warm climates such as the southeastern United States
have a greater risk of developing kidney stones than people who live in colder climates
do. Eating diets high in protein, oxalate, and calcium increases the likelihood of kidney
stone formation. Family history and sedentary lifestyles are contributing factors.
735. A client had a kidney stone. He was placed on a low oxalate diet. He needs to avoid all
of the following foods except:
A. spinach
B. rhubarb
C. black tea
D. yogurt
Correct answer: D
Rationale: The client should avoid foods high in oxalates including most dark green
vegetables, tomatoes, chocolate, tea, and nuts.
736. What is the most prevalent life-threatening genetic disease in the world?
A. cystic fibrosis
B. polycystic kidney disease
C. type I diabetes
D. glomerulonephritis
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Correct answer: B
737. A client is incontinent of urine. Incontinence occurs when the client laughs or sneezes.
The incontinence doesn't happen every day. A small amount of urine leaks. What kind
of incontinence does the client have?
A. urge
B. stress
C. overflow
D. reflex
Correct answer: B
Rationale: The client is exhibiting signs of stress incontinence. It is most common among
women. Men may develop it in response to prostate disease or surgery. Pelvic floor
exercises are beneficial.
A. hinge
B. gliding
C. saddle
D. pivot
Correct answer: A
Rationale: The elbow is an example of a hinge joint. Muscles flex and extend the joint.
The knees are also hinge joints.
739. As clients age, they may become less aware of their bodies in relation to the
environment. This is known as decreased:
A. self-image
B. proprioception
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C. mobility
D. range of motion
Correct answer: B
Rationale: As proprioception decreases, clients are at an increased risk for falls and
other injuries.
740. Encouraging clients to wear nonskid shoes, eliminate clutter from the home, and use
adaptive equipment prevents:
A. cardiovascular accidents
B. falls
C. stress
D. muscle strain
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Falls are a significant cause of death and disability particularly among older
adults. Strategies to reduce fall risk include using walkers and canes, wearing rubber-
soled shoes, good lighting, and keeping walkways unobstructed.
741. Conservative treatment for an intact anterior cruciate ligament, ACL, injury includes all
of the following except:
A. NSAIDs
B. ice
C. elevation
D. surgery
Correct answer: D
Rationale: Conservative treatments for ACL injuries include rest, elevation, NSAIDs, and
crutch walking as tolerated. Physical therapy and immobilizers may be employed.
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742. A client fractured a long bone. The bone broke horizontally across the entire
midsection splitting the bone in two. What kind of fracture did the client sustain?
A. greenstick
B. open
C. transverse
D. oblique
Correct answer: C
Rationale: A transverse fractures occur at a 90° angle from the length of the bone. They
are horizontal across long bones.
Correct answer: D
744. A child is diagnosed with diabetes insipidus. What symptoms does the nurse expect to
observe?
Correct answer: B
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Rationale: Classic signs of diabetes insipidus include polyuria and polydipsia. Diabetes
insipidus develops from a lack of vasopressin or antidiuretic hormone. Children with
diabetes insipidus need to be encouraged to drink as they do not perceive thirst.
A. weight loss
B. facial hair growth
C. moon face
D. poor wound healing
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Signs of Cushing's syndrome include weight gain, the increase of facial hair,
moon phase, and poor wound healing. Other signs include red cheeks, bruising, and red
abdominal striae.
746. A client presents with abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting. He says his mouth feels
dry and he is thirsty. He's restless and having difficulty breathing. His skin is flushed
and dry. He has a weak pulse. The client is tachycardic. His temperature is 38°C. He is
frequently urinating. A rapid urine dipstick test shows the presence of glucose in
ketones in his urine. What is the likely diagnosis?
A. hypoglycemia
B. diabetic ketoacidosis
C. adrenal crisis
D. renal failure
Correct answer: B
Rationale: The client is exhibiting signs of diabetic ketoacidosis. His blood sugar is very
high. The client needs insulin, sodium bicarbonate, fluid replacement with normal
saline, and oxygen therapy.
747. A 35-year-old female presents to the clinic. She is nervous and irritable and complains
of being hot and losing weight. Her eyes are bulging. She has a pulse of 110. What is a
possible diagnosis?
A. Grave’s disease
B. hypothyroidism
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C. syndrome of inappropriate antidiuretic hormone
D. growth hormone excess
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Grave’s disease results from hyperthyroidism. Graves' disease is treated with
beta blockers and medications which block thyroid hormone production. A
thyroidectomy may be needed. Radioactive iodine may be employed to destroy thyroid
tissue.
748. All of the following interventions are appropriate while providing care for a person
with a diagnosis of hypothyroidism except:
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Clients who have hypothyroidism are usually cold. They need a warm
environment to flourish.
A. chlamydia
B. gonorrhea
C. syphilis
D. B and C are correct
Correct answer: D
Rationale: Gonorrhea and syphilis are infectious diseases that must be reported to the
health department. Gonorrhea has become increasingly resistant to antibiotics in recent
years.
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750. A client has benign prostatic hypertrophy, BPH. All of the following medications are
likely to be employed except:
A. finasteride, Proscar
B. terazosin, Hytrin
C. tamsulosin, Flomax
D. leuprolide, Lupron
Correct answer: D
Rationale: Leuprolide, Lupron, is used to treat men who have a diagnosis of prostate
cancer.
A. puberty
B. age 25
C. age 40
D. age 50
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Testicular cancer affects young men. Testicular self-exams should begin at
puberty.
A. midcycle
B. with the onset of menses
C. between days one and thirteen
D. between days fourteen to twenty-eight
Correct answer: C
Rationale: The follicular stage prepares the uterus for implantation of a fertilized egg.
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753. What happens when ovulation occurs?
Correct answer: A
Rationale: The basal body temperature increases by 0.4-1°F when ovulation occurs.
Monitoring the basal body temperature is helpful for women who want to know when
they are at the time of peak fertility. The information can be used to aid or prevent
conception.
754. A painless round, red, firm lesion on the perineal area may indicate:
A. human papillomavirus
B. syphilis
C. chlamydia
D. gonorrhea
Correct answer: B
Rationale: The first sign of syphilis may be a firm round lesion at the entry site of the
bacteria. It disappears without intervention.
755. A woman is saturating a menstrual pad every hour. What is she experiencing?
A. dysmenorrhea
B. amenorrhea
C. menorrhagia
D. oligomenorrhea
Correct answer: C
Rationale: The woman has excessive menstrual flow. That is known as menorrhagia.
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756. A woman is four months pregnant. She has frequent, persistent nausea and vomiting.
What is this called?
A. hyperemesis gravidarum
B. morning sickness
C. GERD
D. pressure due to the upward expansion of the growing uterus
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Morning sickness should subside by the end of the first trimester. The
woman has hyperemesis gravidarum.
A. painless bleeding
B. rigid abdomen
C. clots
D. abdominal pain
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Abruptio placenta is life-threatening to mother and child. Dark red blood
with clots may appear. The abdomen is painful and board-like.
757. A woman was raped last night. She came to the emergency room today. All of the
following actions need to be conducted during her time in the emergency room
except:
Correct answer: D
Rationale: Clients who are raped must sign a consent form. The victim's safety needs
are addressed. Care for current injuries, and preventive measures against future disease
or trauma are provided. Referrals are made for future physical and emotional care.
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758. A woman was raped six weeks ago. All of the following tests are done now except
screening for:
A. HIV
B. syphilis
C. hepatitis B
D. tuberculosis
Correct answer: D
Rationale: HIV, syphilis, and hepatitis B testing is performed six weeks after the rape
occurs. HIV testing and other indicated screenings are repeated at three and six months
post-rape.
You've been working very hard! Take a break if you need one.
A. opportunistic infections
B. vascular complications
C. renal failure
D. hemorrhage
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Most HIV-infected newborns do not have an early onset of disease. Those
that have an early onset, within 48 hours of birth, usually die within two years. The most
common opportunistic infections that kill these babies are Candida and Pneumocystis
carinii.
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760. Children with AIDS are at risk all of the following conditions except:
A. failure to thrive
B. developmental delay
C. hepatosplenomegaly
D. constipation
Correct answer: D
Rationale: Children who have AIDS may have chronic or recurrent diarrhea.
A. COPD
B. psoriasis
C. systemic lupus erythematosus
D. rheumatoid arthritis
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Many illnesses are autoimmune disorders. They include diverse conditions
including type I diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis, and systemic lupus
erythematosus.
762. Characteristics of chronic fatigue syndrome include all of the following except:
Correct answer: C
Rationale: Signs and symptoms of chronic fatigue include tiredness, impaired short-term
memory, reduced concentration, sore throat, headaches, lymph node tenderness, joint
and muscle pain.
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763. Signs and symptoms of mononucleosis include all of the following except:
A. a sore throat
B. swollen lymph nodes
C. diarrhea
D. fever
Correct answer: C
764. Signs and symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis include all of the following except:
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Clients with rheumatoid arthritis usually have bilateral joint changes in the
bones of the hands and feet.
765. The procedure which separates and removes components of blood to treat
autoimmune diseases is called:
A. gene therapy
B. apheresis
C. autologous donation
D. monoclonal antibody therapy
Correct answer: B
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4.4P HEMATOLOGICAL SYSTEM AND ONCOLOGY
766. Chest syndrome is a medical emergency which occurs to people with a diagnosis of:
Correct answer: C
Rationale: Chest syndrome affects people who have sickle-cell disease. Severe pain in
the chest, abdomen or back occurs. Fever, congestion, and cough develop. Severe
dyspnea and accompanying tachypnea occur.
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Aplastic anemia develops from bone marrow suppression. It may result from
infections such as hepatitis; radiation; or medications, including chemotherapeutic
agents. Exposure to toxins, such as benzene, may suppress the bone marrow. People
with leukemia or lymphoma are at risk for aplastic anemia. In some cases, the cause of
bone marrow suppression is not known.
768. What site is used to perform a bone marrow aspiration in young children?
Correct answer: A
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Rationale: The posterior and anterior iliac crests are used. The tibia may be used to
perform a bone marrow aspiration biopsy on an infant.
A. infection
B. bleeding
C. nausea
D. anemia
Correct answer: C
Correct answer: A
771. What kind of cancer kills more men and women in the United States each year than
any other kind?
A. colon
B. lung
C. lymphoma
D. esophageal
Correct answer: B
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Rationale: More adults in the United States die due to lung cancer than any other type
of cancer. Since smoking has become more popular among women, rates of lung cancer
in women have also increased.
A. pelvic pain
B. back pain
C. urinary retention
D. hematuria
Correct answer: D
Rationale: Gross hematuria is almost always the first sign of bladder cancer. It may be
constant or intermittent.
Correct answer: D
A. doxorubicin
B. Cytoxan
C. hydroxyurea
D. heparin
Correct answer: C
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Rationale: Doxorubicin and Cytoxan are chemotherapeutic agents. Heparin is a
thrombolytic medication. Hydroxyurea prevents red blood cells from sickling. The client
will also need medicine to treat pain and other symptoms.
775. A client receives immune globulin as an injection. What type of immunity does the
client have as a result?
A. natural active
B. artificial active
C. artificial passive
D. passive natural
Correct answer: C
A. fibrosis
B. immunosuppression
C. gastrointestinal distress
D. all of the above
Correct answer: D
Rationale: Radiation therapy can cause many side effects. It causes fibrosis, immune
suppression, gastrointestinal distress, hair loss, skin damage, oral changes, anorexia,
bone marrow suppression, cataracts, and pneumonia.
777. Clients with smallpox need this kind of isolation precautions implemented;
A. airborne
B. contact
C. droplet
D. A and B are correct
Correct answer: D
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Rationale: Airborne and contact precautions are required for people who are infected
with smallpox. Concern has arisen over the potential use of the smallpox virus as a
weapon for bioterrorism.
778. A client is in hypovolemic shock. All of the following are correct actions except:
Correct answer: C
A. pneumonia
B. blindness
C. tetany
D. cerebral edema
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Premature newborns may become blind if they receive too much oxygen.
Basing oxygen administration on needs and weight helps prevent blindness.
780. Indwelling urinary catheters are removed as soon as possible due to:
A. cost
B. client discomfort
C. potential infections
D. hematuria
Correct answer: C
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Rationale: Indwelling urinary catheters increase the risk of bladder infections. Their use
is minimized to prevent infection.
781. A client has a swollen red arm where an IV catheter is inserted. What is the first thing
that the nurse does?
Correct answer: B
Rationale: The IV catheter should be removed. The client likely has an infection at the
site.
782. A nurse is going to administer medication via the intravenous route. The client has an
IV solution running. The nurse does not know whether the drug is compatible with the
IV solution. What does the nurse do?
Correct answer: D
Rationale: A compatibility chart provides quick information that the nurse can use to
determine whether the drug and the solution are compatible.
783. The risk of extravasation is highest for the client who is receiving:
A. Taxotere
B. packed red blood cells
C. total parenteral nutrition
D. 50% dextrose
Correct answer: A
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Rationale: The risk of extravasation is highest when chemotherapeutic drugs are
administered.
784. A client is receiving total parenteral nutrition. His skin is cool and clammy. He says he
feels dizzy and weak. He is sweating. The client says that his vision is blurry. What is
likely causing his symptoms?
A. embolus
B. infection
C. fluid overload
D. hypoglycemia
Correct answer: D
Rationale: Clients who receive total parenteral nutrition are at risk for hyper and
hypoglycemia. The client is showing signs of hypoglycemia. The blood sugar level should
be checked. If it is low, carbohydrates should be administered immediately. Unchecked
hypoglycemia may result in loss of consciousness and seizure activity.
A. left atrium
B. right atrium
C. left ventricle
D. right ventricle
Correct answer: C
Rationale: Left ventricular failure is most common. Right-sided heart failure often
occurs as a result of left-sided heart failure.
786. A client has no urinary output. His blood pressure is 40/30 and pulse is 130. The
respiratory rate is 40. His oxygen saturation level is 64. He is unresponsive. The central
venous pressure is elevated. Peripheral pulses are not palpable. The pulse pressure is
becoming narrower. The jugular vein is distended. What procedure may be needed?
A. pericardiocentesis
B. cardioversion
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C. defibrillation
D. cricoid thoracotomy
Correct answer: A
787. All of the following medications are used to treat a client who is in a hypertensive
crisis except:
A. atropine
B. nitroprusside
C. ace inhibitors
D. beta blockers
Correct answer: A
788. Blood cannot return normally to the heart due to increased pressure when the
following condition is present:
A. hypovolemic shock
B. cardiogenic shock
C. superior vena cava syndrome
D. cor pulmonale
Correct answer: C
Rationale: Compression of the vena cava prevents circulating blood from returning to
the heart when superior vena cava syndrome occurs. Clients should be placed on a
ventilator and provided with oxygen. Seizures, respiratory and cardiac arrest may
develop.
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789. A client is hospitalized with an infection of C. difficile. What type of shock is most
likely to develop?
A. septic
B. cardiogenic
C. neurogenic
D. obstructive
Correct answer: A
Rationale: The client is at risk for infection to spread throughout the entire body.
Untreated septic shock can lead to multiorgan failure. It can be fatal.
A. cardiovascular accident
B. status epilepticus
C. brain tumor
D. spinal cord injury
Correct answer: D
Rationale: Spinal cord injuries due to trauma or spinal anesthesia may cause neurogenic
shock.
791. A woman had an in vitro fertilization procedure done. She has come to the emergency
department complaining of severe abdominal pain and shortness of breath. The
woman states that she is thirsty and not producing much urine. She has diarrhea.
What is the likely cause of her symptoms?
Correct answer: C
Rationale: The woman is at risk for developing ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome after
in- vitro fertilization. Ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome can lead to pericardial
effusion, coagulopathy, ascites, and death if it is untreated.
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792. Untreated mastoiditis can lead to:
A. meningitis
B. deafness
C. death
D. all of the above
Correct answer: D
Rationale: Mastoiditis can lead to meningitis, deafness, and death. Tissues may become
necrotic, and abscesses may form.
793. The tympanic membrane may rupture due to all of the following except:
A. infection
B. a loud blast
C. a cochlear implant
D. inserting a cotton swab into the ear
Correct answer: C
A. seatbelt sign
B. blindness
C. burns
D. retinal detachment
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Seatbelt sign consists of bruising along the lines where a seatbelt crosses the
body. It is caused when the seatbelt tightens upon impact during a motor vehicle
accident.
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795. A client complains of a sudden onset of straight lines looking curvy. He says he has a
lot of floaters and it seems like there are flashing lights going off in his right eye. What
is a likely cause of the visual changes?
A. corneal abrasion
B. cataract
C. acute wide-angle glaucoma
D. retinal detachment
Correct answer: D
Rationale: The client has signs of retinal detachment. It is a medical emergency. Surgery
needs to be performed, or else blindness will result if it is a complete detachment.
796. The nurse is working as a volunteer at a baseball game in the community. The umpire
is hit in the face by a baseball. His tooth is knocked out. What does the nurse do?
Correct answer: A
Rationale: A tooth should be placed in normal saline or milk when it is knocked out.
797. A client has extensive, deep, full-thickness burns surrounding the entire trunk. He is
dyspneic. What procedure may be needed?
A. wound debridement
B. escharotomy
C. endotracheal tube placement
D. chest tube insertion
Correct answer: B
Rationale: The client needs an escharotomy to relieve pressure so that his lungs can
fully expand. He may require a fasciotomy which is an incision through the eschar and
the fascia.
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798. Acute respiratory distress syndrome is usually due to:
A. trauma
B. near drowning
C. sepsis
D. opioid overdoses
Correct answer: C
Rationale: Most cases of acute respiratory distress syndrome are due to sepsis. Clients
with multiple risk factors are at a much higher risk of developing acute respiratory
distress syndrome. Other common causes include aspiration, pneumonia, and trauma.
Correct answer: B
Rationale: the blood pressure and pulse are continuously monitored as reflex
tachycardia may occur during intravenous infusions of nitroglycerine.
Congratulations you have finished with the topic review sections of your preparation course!
Get some rest before completing the final part.
Set aside a few hours for the next session. I recommend that you take it all at one time so that
you will be well prepared when you take and pass your NCLEX-RN exam.
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PART FIVE MIXED REVIEW
This section consists of 201 random questions. The questions are in the same format we have
been using. You will be asked a question and given four multiple-choice answers to select from.
The rationale will then be provided.
Correct answer: C
Rationale: Two health care providers listening by telephone simultaneously may obtain
telephone consent. They must document they heard the parents give permission over
the phone.
800. A client has a chest tube. He has subcutaneous emphysema. This may be indicative of:
A. Infection
B. chronic bronchitis
C. An incomplete seal at the chest tube insertion site.
D. Pneumonia
Correct answer: C
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801. Shared governance provides staff nurses with opportunities to have all of the
following except:
A. authority
B. responsibility
C. accountability
D. unity of command
Correct answer: D
802. The Uniform Determination of Death Act describes death as the irreversible cessation
of:
Correct answer: C
Rationale: The Uniform Determination of Death Act describes death as the irreversible
cessation of circulation, respiration, and function of the entire brain including the brain
stem.
803. A client has esophageal cancer. He is difficulty swallowing and is losing weight. Who
should he be referred to?
Correct answer: A
Rationale: A dietitian can offer a plan for high nutrient foods. The speech therapist can
conduct a swallow evaluation. Together, they can create a program which addresses
dysphagia and weight loss.
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804. Bioethics addresses concerns that result from:
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Bioethics addresses concerns that result from the progress of science,
medicine, and technology. Examples include cloning and genetic engineering.
805. A client enquires about his roommate. They were discussing each other’s health issues
earlier in the day. The roommate has been out of the room for a diagnostic test which
is taking longer than expected. The nurse states that:
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Healthcare workers are prohibited from disclosing information about clients
unless permission has been granted by the client.
806. Laws which advocate for client rights, regulate healthcare, ensure professional
accountability and regulate health care financing are:
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Public health laws protect the public. They encompass healthcare regulation
and financing. Public health laws pertain to professional practice and accountability.
They advocate for the health and wellness of the population.
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807. How often should a testicular self-examination be performed?
A. weekly
B. monthly
C. every three months
D. annually
Correct answer: B
808. A client is being discharged from a rehabilitation center after repair of a fractured hip.
Who is qualified to go to the client’s home to evaluate it for safety and recommend
modifications such as handrails and ramps?
A. nurse practitioner
B. occupational therapist
C. prosthetist
D. orthopedic surgeon
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Occupational therapists may provide home evaluations for safety and make
recommendations for home modifications.
809. The speech therapist is providing services for your client who has failed a bedside
swallow evaluation. The therapist asks you whether the client’s fractured knee is
improving. The speech therapist:
A. is entitled to information about the client’s knee as she is caring for the client
B. is requesting information which is beyond her “right to know.”
C. may need to know about the knee so that she can provide speech therapy services
D. is seeking required information so that she can provide comprehensive services.
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Caregivers only have the right to know information necessary to carry out
their duties.
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810. A client is showing signs of malignant hyperthermia. What medication needs to be
administered?
A. acetylcholine
B. Anectine
C. dantrolene
D. diazepam
Correct answer: D
811. All of the following may help prevent a confused and forgetful client from dislodging
an intravenous catheter except:
Correct answer: A
Rationale: A vest restraint does not restrict hand movement. Therefore it would not
effectively prevent a client from removing an intravenous catheter.
A. hypotension
B. increased susceptibility to infection
C. mood and behavioral changes
D. protein depletion
Correct answer: A
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813. Trousseau’s and Chvostek’s signs indicate:
A. Hypoglycemia
B. Hypercalcemia
C. Hyperglycemia
D. Hypocalcemia
Correct answer: D
Rationale: Trousseau’s sign is demonstrated by flexion of the hand and wrist when a
blood pressure cuff is inflated higher than a client’s systolic pressure. Chvostek’s sign is
indicated by facial twitching when the area of the cheekbone and ear intersection is
tapped.
814. A client has a blood sugar of 30. He is awake and oriented but tired. All of the
following treatments are indicated except:
A. administer IV insulin
B. administer 50 mL of 50% dextrose solution
C. administer glucagon
D. provide a quick acting oral carbohydrate
Correct answer: A
Rationale: The client’s blood sugar is dangerously low. Glucagon, 50% dextrose solution,
and oral carbohydrates will increase his blood sugar level. Insulin is contraindicated as it
will cause the level to drop.
Correct answer: D
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816. What type of insulin may be administered intravenously as a continuous drip?
A. none
B. regular
C. NPH
D. Lantus
Correct answer: B
817. The Joint Commission on the Accreditation of Health Care Organizations and other
regulating authorities require that healthcare staff members receive training about
emergency response plans and practice emergency drills at least:
A. monthly
B. four times per year
C. twice yearly
D. annually
Correct answer: C
Rationale: The Joint Commission on the Accreditation of Health Care Organizations and
other regulating authorities require that healthcare staff members receive training
about emergency response plans and practice emergency drills at least twice yearly.
However, many healthcare organizations practice emergency drills more frequently.
818. A nurse has to draw blood so that the client's blood alcohol level can be evaluated.
The nurse carries out the following steps when completing the procedure except:
Correct answer: B
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Rationale: Do not wipe the site with an alcohol gauze pad before drawing blood that will
be used to measure a blood alcohol level.
819. All of the following help to prevent circulatory problems postoperatively except:
Correct answer: C
820. Common side effects of muscle relaxants include all of the following except:
A. fatigue
B. blurred vision
C. a headache
D. hyperactivity
Correct answer: D
Rationale: Muscle relaxants help to relieve pain due to spasms. Side effects include
fatigue, blurred vision, gastrointestinal distress, and headaches. Large doses may create
respiratory depression, low blood pressure, or tachycardia. There is the potential for
abuse among some clients.
821. The nurse prepares to give a client medication. What does the nurse first say to the
client?
Correct answer: C
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Rationale: It is essential first to establish the identity of the client. All of the other
questions are irrelevant if you don't have the right client. Ask the client to tell you his or
her name because sometimes clients answer to other people's names.
A. autocratic
B. relational
C. democratic
D. transformational
Correct answer: C
823. A client has a continuous morphine infusion running at 2 mg per hour. He can receive
a bolus dose of 0.5 mg every 15 minutes. He is receiving patient-controlled analgesia.
He repeatedly pushes the button to receive a bolus dose. What does the nurse do?
Correct answer: D
Rationale: The client may have the knowledge deficit regarding the PCA. The nurse
needs to provide appropriate education. If the client continues to push the button to
receive a bolus, the nurse should evaluate his pain level and notify the physician as the
basal rate may be too low.
824. The most common hospital-acquired infections that affect geriatric clients are caused
by:
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Correct answer: C
825. A woman comes to the emergency department. The woman says that she is a couple
of months pregnant, but isn’t sure how far along she is. She is experiencing right-sided
abdominal pain and sudden sharp right-sided shoulder pain. Her pulse is 100. Her
blood pressure is 88/60. She complains of nausea and thirst. What do these signs most
likely indicate?
A. labor
B. miscarriage
C. ectopic pregnancy
D. urinary tract infection
Correct answer: C
Rationale: The woman is pregnant. She may be developing shock which is resulting in
thirst and changes in her vital signs. The right-sided abdominal pain is likely caused by
rupture of the fallopian tube. The right-sided shoulder pain is referred pain due to
stretching or rupture of the tube. This situation is a medical emergency. The woman
needs immediate surgery.
A. Do not resuscitate orders mean that resuscitative medications but not chest
compressions may be administered
B. Do not resuscitate orders can only be revoked by a judge
C. The client’s guardian, health care surrogate, health care proxy, or next of kin can
revoke a do not resuscitate order at any time.
D. A physician may disregard a do not resuscitate order if they thinks resuscitation is
possible
Correct answer: C
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Rationale: The client’s guardian, health care surrogate, health care proxy, or next of kin
can revoke a do not resuscitate order at any time.
A. naloxone
B. activated charcoal
C. flumazenil
D. beta blockers
Correct answer: B
828. Which does not present a major risk to clients in a healthcare environment?
Correct answer: D
Rationale: The four main risks to clients in health care settings are falls and injuries
related to themselves, equipment, and procedures.
A. nonspecific inflammation
B. cardiovascular risks
C. bacteria levels
D. male hormones
Correct answer: A
Rationale: The C-reactive protein level increases when inflammation is present. It is not
a specific test used to diagnose specific diseases. Additional testing is required to
determine the source of inflammation.
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830. The nurse practitioner ordered a new medication. The order reads buspirone 5mg now
x one dose. What does the nurse do?
A. administers 5 mg of buspirone
B. questions the order because the dose is not what is usually administered
C. asks the client whether or not he is ever received the medication before
D. contacts the nurse practitioner as the order is incomplete
Correct answer: D
Rationale: The nurse must contact the nurse practitioner because the order is
incomplete. The route of administration is missing from the order.
831. Alice has a diagnosis of bipolar depression. She has stage III kidney disease. A home
health care management nurse provides care for an ulcer that developed on Alice’s
foot as a result of uncontrolled diabetes. Who takes the lead in Alice's healthcare?
Correct answer: B
Rationale: The client is responsible for his or her own health and healthcare.
832. A client sustained an acute kidney injury. What is the most common fatal
complication?
A. hemorrhage
B. infection
C. toxemia
D. hypertension
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Death from acute kidney injury is most commonly caused by infection.
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833. A client receives TPN. He is at risk for hemothorax and pneumothorax. The nurse is
alert for the client experiencing:
A. dyspnea
B. chest pain
C. nausea and vomiting
D. A and B are correct
Correct answer: D
Rationale: Signs and symptoms of hemothorax and pneumothorax include chest pain
and dyspnea.
834. Which of the following interventions is appropriate when providing care for a client
who is at risk for harming others?
Correct answer: C
Correct answer: D
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Rationale: Deceased donors may provide all of the above. They may also donate tissues,
the liver, skin, bones, and corneas.
836. While caring for a newborn immediately after birth, primary goals include all of the
following except:
Correct answer: A
Rationale: The highest priority goals of newborn care immediately after birth include
preventing of infections, supporting body temperature, and ensuring airway patency.
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Older adults often need increased intake of calcium, and vitamins A and C.
Ideally, the nutrients are obtained through the diet, however supplementation is usually
required.
A. LA
B. Contin
C. SR
D. IR
Correct answer: D
Rationale: LA stands for long-acting. Contin means continuous release .SR stands for
sustained [Link] means instant release. Time released, and enteric-coated oral
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medications may not be crushed or altered. Spansules are time released beads in
capsules and may not be crushed.
839. Alterations in elimination patterns may occur postoperatively. The nurse does all of
the following to monitor and promote restoration of healthy elimination patterns
except:
Correct answer: D
840. Most people who have a new diagnosis of pancreatic cancer live:
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Most clients diagnosed with pancreatic cancer live between 6 to 12 months
after diagnosis. Less than 5% survive five years.
Correct answer: D
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Rationale: Transvaginal ultrasound is a painless procedure. Women may feel pressure as
the sensor is moved. Transvaginal ultrasound allows for imaging of the pelvic structures.
It is useful when evaluating obese clients as fat layers may make abdominal imaging
challenging. Women sometimes prefer the transvaginal ultrasound as they do not need
to have a full bladder as they do for an abdominal one.
842. Situations, habits, developmental stages, spiritual beliefs, and physiological states
impact:
A. risk factors
B. grounded theory
C. diversity
D. durability
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Risk factors are impacted by multiple aspects of an individual's life. Mental
and physical health, genetics, socioeconomic background, and beliefs are contributing
factors. Community wellness impacts risk factors.
A. 300 mg
B. 600 mg
C. 1200 mg
D. 2400 mg
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Divide the child's weight in pounds by 2.2 to get the weight in kilograms. A
child who weighs 22 pounds weighs 10 kg. 10 kg multiplied by 30 mg per kilogram of
medication equals 300 mg.
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844. What is a correct description of assent?
A. A procedure for obtaining telephone consent when parents cannot provide written
consent for the care of their minor child
B. Older minor children who are clients are provided with information about treatment
and agree with having it performed
C. Informed consent that is obtained with the assistance of an interpreter
D. Consent supplied by responsible adults who are non-verbal or cannot write
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Assent occurs when older minor children who are clients are provided with
information about treatment and agree with having it performed.
845. What substances support a healthy intestinal biome yet aren't microorganisms?
A. probiotics
B. prebiotics
C. antibiotics
D. antioxidants
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Prebiotics activate and promote the growth of needed microorganisms in the
intestines.
846. Which of the following conditions may cause a white blood cell count to be elevated?
A. infection
B. chemotherapy
C. leukemia
D. A and C are correct
Correct answer: D
Rationale: Infection, leukemia, and inflammation may cause a white blood cell count to
rise. Trauma due to an accident or surgery may temporarily increase the white blood
cell count. Chemotherapy reduces the white blood cell count.
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847. The primary risk to a woman who is miscarrying is:
A. emotional distress
B. pain
C. blood loss and shock
D. an inability to carry future pregnancies to term
Correct answer: C
Rationale: The woman is likely to suffer emotional distress and pain. She may or may
not be able to carry future pregnancies to term. The immediate, potentially most
serious problem is the risk of blood loss resulting in shock.
848. The nurse administers a medication which is used to treat atrial fibrillation with a
rapid ventricular response. Which drug does the nurse administer?
A. diltiazem
B. furosemide
C. morphine
D. atropine
Correct answer: A
A. Orthostatic hypotension
B. Increased risks for thrombus formation
C. Hydrostatic pneumonia
D. All of the above.
Correct answer: D
Rationale: Immobility increases risk for thrombus formation and diminishes function
throughout the entire body. All systems are impacted. Potential complications include
all of the above.
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850. The production of antibodies that neutralize or kill pathogens is known as:
Correct answer: D
851. Longer lengths of stay and reduced revenues of health care facilities are the result of:
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Medication errors are expensive financially as they result in longer lengths of
stay and legal actions being taken against health care providers and organizations.
852. The nurse provides education to a client who has diabetes. They discuss management
of hypoglycemia. The nurse advises the client to consume protein and 15 g of
carbohydrates when the blood sugar is low. What food contains 15 g of
carbohydrates?
Correct answer: A
853. An 85-year-old female has an IV running at 80 mL per hour. The nurse assesses the
client. The client’s blood pressure is 188/94. Her pulse is 96. The woman's respiratory
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rate is 24. She is afebrile. The nurse hears crackles and rales when she listens to the
client’s lungs. The woman states it is difficult to breathe. Her neck veins are distended.
She has 2+ edema in her lower legs. What is a possible diagnosis?
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Signs and symptoms of fluid overload include distention of the neck veins,
hypertension, tachycardia, and difficulty breathing. Crackles and rales may be heard in
the lungs. Edema may be present. Geriatric clients and individuals with a history of
cardiovascular disease are at risk for developing fluid volume excess. The nurse needs to
slow or stop the IV and notify the physician immediately. The client has pulmonary
edema.
A. Treatments that they want to have should they be unable to voice their preferences
B. Care and procedures that they do not want to be provided if they are incapacitated
C. Nutrition, hydration, and pain medications in the event they are incapacitated.
D. All of the above
Correct answer: D
Rationale: Advance directives are individualized. They state client preferences regarding
treatments to be provided or withheld should they become incapacitated. Common
areas addressed include pain management, ventilation, artificial fluids, artificial
nutrition and resuscitative modalities.
Correct answer: B
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Rationale: Women are at risk for gaining weight after menopause due to reductions in
estrogen levels. Fat is redistributed.
856. Which of the following medications should not be administered to a client who takes
an anticoagulant agent?
A. psyllium
B. Colace
C. lactulose
D. senna
Correct answer: B
857. A client has a new order for cromolyn sodium. How long will it take for the medication
to take effect?
A. 3 to 5 minutes
B. one hour
C. 72 hours
D. 4 to 8 weeks
Correct answer: D
Rationale: Cromolyn sodium may take up to eight weeks to be effective. Clients must
take it continuously for the treatment of asthma. It must not be stopped abruptly, or an
asthma attack could occur.
858. A 40-year-old woman with a history of early-stage breast cancer which was treated by
surgical removal of the tumor. She is not had chemotherapy or radiation. The woman
asked the nurse for recommendations regarding contraception. What are the nurse’s
recommendations?
A. no contraception is necessary due to the history of cancer and the woman's age
B. transdermal contraceptive patches, transvaginal contraceptive rings, and oral
contraceptives are convenient
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C. options include sterilization, diaphragms, and condoms
D. natural family planning methods may be used with emergency contraceptive pills
if needed
Correct answer: C
Rationale: Having a history of cancer and being 40 years old does not mean a woman
cannot become pregnant. The woman must avoid the use of any hormonally based
contraceptive methods. Therefore, sterilization and the use of a diaphragm or condoms
are healthy options.
859. Iron deficiency anemia, abdominal pain, diarrhea, bloating, and flatulence are signs of:
A. gallstones
B. hepatitis C
C. celiac disease
D. pregnancy
Correct answer: C
Rationale: The symptoms described are signs of celiac disease. A biopsy is needed to
confirm the diagnosis.
860. A client suffers from expressive aphasia after a stroke. What tools are used to aid
communication?
Correct answer: A
Rationale: All of the listed tools are used when rehabilitating individuals with a history
of a cerebrovascular accident. However, only the tablet and communication board
directly aid communication. The other tools aid mobility, independence, and body
awareness.
861. A client has a central line. When the nurse is delegating care to other staff she needs
to ensure that the team understands:
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A. Blood should not be drawn from the limb that the central line is inserted into.
B. Not to take blood pressures on the limb with the central line it
C. Not to turn the client the client towards the side of the arm which contains the
central line
D. A and B are correct
Correct answer: D
Rationale: Blood draws and pressures are not obtained from the limb which includes
the central line. Clients may be turned on the side of the arm providing the line is not
occluded.
862. A child presents to the emergency department having an asthma attack. He has no
prior history of asthma. What medication is administered first?
A. nebulized albuterol
B. cromolyn sodium
C. guaifenesin
D. codeine
Correct answer: A
863. A client is being discharged. She is concerned about being able to afford nutritious
food for herself and her family since she will be unable to work for six weeks. Who
should be consulted?
Correct answer: C
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Rationale: Social workers provide a vast array of services for clients. They may act as
liaisons with community agencies to assist clients with financial concerns.
864. What is the first thing a nurse does while providing care to a six-year-old boy who was
raped by his uncle?
Correct answer: A
Rationale: The highest priority is to ensure the child is safe and his immediate physical
needs are met. The nurse needs to report the abuse to child protective services and
follow facility protocol for doing so. The police need to be notified, and the child will
need counseling.
A. mononeuropathic
B. deafferentation
C. sympathetically maintained
D. polyneuropathic
Correct answer: D
Rationale: People who experience diabetic neuropathy have pain that is due to
stimulation of many peripheral nerves. This is known as polyneuropathic pain.
Mononuropathic pain is associated with damage to a specific peripheral nerve. Phantom
limb pain is an example of deafferentation pain. Sympathetically maintained pain is
associated with the autonomic nervous system. An example of sympathetically
maintained pain is regional pain syndrome.
866. A competent client was instructed not to walk to the bathroom without assistance
due to her increased fall risk. She declined to use the call system and fell while walking
to the bathroom unattended. What type of variance is this?
A. clinical
B. institutional
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C. client
D. practitioner
Correct answer: C
Rationale: Variances which occur due to irregularities with clients rather than
practitioners or institutions are called client or patient variances.
867. Parents of a three-month-old infant report that their bottle-fed baby has yellow
stools. The child has a bowel movement twice daily. The stool is soft. The description
of the stools and bowel pattern are indicative of:
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Infant stools are usually yellow. Bottle fed babies have one to three bowel
movements daily. Breastfed infants have approximately six stools per day.
868. Which of the following can create a false positive result when testing stools for occult
blood?
A. Menstrual blood
B. Hemorrhoids
C. Warfarin
D. All of the above.
Correct answer: D
Rationale: False-positive results can occur when testing for occult blood. Bleeding
hemorrhoids, contamination with menstrual blood and several medications can cause a
false positive result. Medications which are likely to cause false positives include
NSAIDs, salicylates, iron, high doses of vitamin C, anticoagulants, colchicine, and
corticosteroids.
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869. A client’s urine specific gravity is elevated. Her hemoglobin, hematocrit, BUN, and
creatinine levels are high. The lab values are indicative of:
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Specific gravity, hemoglobin, hematocrit, BUN, and creatinine levels increase
when a fluid volume deficit is present. These indicate dehydration.
870. A client is trying to stop smoking. What are some signs and symptoms of withdrawal
from nicotine?
Correct answer: A
871. A client is on long-term therapy of prednisone. What is the client at risk for?
A. hyperglycemia
B. thinning of the skin
C. weight gain
D. all of the above
Correct answer: D
Rationale: Clients are at risk for developing multiple side effects when they are on long-
term steroid therapy. Side effects include but are not limited to hyperglycemia, thinning
of the skin, weight gain, irritability, gastrointestinal changes and mood disorders.
Insomnia is common.
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872. A pregnant woman has frequent vaginal yeast infections. Which food does the nurse
suggest that the client include in her diet?
A. low-fat milk
B. whole grain bread
C. Greek yogurt
D. tomatoes
Correct answer: C
Rationale: Active cultures in yogurt promote healthy vaginal flora. Greek yogurt is an
excellent choice for pregnant women because it contains plenty of protein and calcium.
Whole grains are essential during pregnancy because they provide iron. Whole-grains
relieve constipation and support healthy blood pressure. Low-fat milk contains protein
and calcium. Tomatoes, mainly cooked, are excellent sources of lycopene.
A. dementia
B. depression
C. delirium
D. withdrawal
Correct answer: C
874. Most deaths that are due to medical errors are the result of:
A. Infections
B. Medications
C. Multifaceted systemic problems within the healthcare industry
D. Neglect
Correct answer: C
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Rationale: Most deaths due to medical errors result from systemic problems within the
healthcare industry. Poor staffing levels, fragmented care, and inadequate safety
measures contribute to medical errors.
875. The nurse tells the teenage parents of a newborn to keep plastic bags away from the
baby. The nurse instructs the parents to keep a hand on the baby while providing care.
Why is the nurse doing this?
A. neonates are at risk for injury and death due to falls and suffocation
B. these activities enhance bonding between parent and child
C. plastic bags have germs, and the child may get sick
D. infants thrive when they are touched
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Newborns and infants are at risk for injury and death due to falls, suffocation,
and strangulation.
A. The 31-year-old veteran who had a below the knee amputation due to trauma
B. A 40-year-old female who underwent an above the knee amputation due to a car
accident
C. A 55-year-old paralyzed woman who had her right arm amputated due to a blood
clot.
D. An 85-year-old male suffering from dementia who has severe diabetes which
necessitated an above the knee amputation due to gangrene
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Clients who have above the knee or below the elbow amputations may need
a delayed prosthetic fitting. The 55 and 85-year-old individuals are not likely to be
candidates for prostheses.
877. Elderly clients are at risk for constipation due to all of the following except:
A. Immobility
B. Low fiber diets
C. Increased levels of hydrochloric acid in the stomach
D. Reduced mucus production within the intestinal tract
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Correct answer: C
878. A client presents to the urgent care center with poorly localized abdominal pain,
nausea, vomiting, and an inability to pass flatus. The client’s abdomen is tender and
distended. Borborygmi are present. What is a likely diagnosis?
A. intestinal obstruction
B. acute diverticulitis
C. GERD
D. pancreatitis
Correct answer. A
879. Unusual disease patterns, clusters of clients from specific locations, unusual antibiotic
resistance, and atypical symptoms may be signs of:
A. Nosocomial infections
B. Community acquired infections
C. Bioterrorism
D. Antibiotic resistant organisms
Correct answer: C
Rationale: The presence of unusual disease patterns, clusters of clients from specific
locations, unusual antibiotic resistance, and atypical symptoms may indicate
bioterrorism.
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D. a woman with preeclampsia
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Ports are surgically implanted for long-term use. They are used for
chemotherapy and other invasive treatments.
Correct answer: C
Rationale: The posterior fontanelle closes between the end of the second and third
month.
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Clients, families, staff and many others may be impacted by ethical
dilemmas. Performance of specific procedures, care decisions, and a lack of resources
may create ethical dilemmas for staff members.
883. A woman is pregnant. Her BMI is 23. The nurse provides nutritional education. What
does the nurse say to the woman?
Correct answer: D
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Rationale: The woman’s BMI is in a healthy range. Pregnant women must increase their
daily caloric intake by 300 calories per day when their pre-pregnancy weight is within a
healthy range.
A. evaluate risk factors for children less than two years old
B. promote healthy aging activities
C. assess the health status of a community
D. reduce rates of unhealthy behaviors among teens
Correct answer: C
Rationale: The Dimensions model of health assesses and evaluates the health status of
communities.
885. The client had surgery. The nurse noticed burns on the client that were not there
before the surgical procedure. What is the likely cause of those burns?
Correct answer: C
Rationale: If electric cautery grounding pads are not correctly placed, burns may result.
886. A client is receiving TPN. The nurse knows that he is at risk for all of the following
except:
A. hyperglycemia
B. hypoglycemia
C. embolism
D. aspiration pneumonia
Correct answer: D
Rationale: The client is not at risk for aspiration pneumonia related to the TPN because
the nutrients are going into his bloodstream, not gastrointestinal tract. Clients who
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receive TPN are at risk for high and low blood sugars. Embolism, fluid overload, and
infection. The client is at risk for pneumothorax, and hemothorax during catheter
insertion.
A. choose vulnerable children, groom their victims, and often choose activities or
professions which allow them easy access to children.
B. usually, have no pre-existing history which puts them at a higher likelihood of
abusing children than other members of society
C. generally only abuse one victim
D. are always male
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Sexual abusers choose vulnerable victims. They often groom their victims by
offering friendship, toys or other means. Many sexual abusers choose professions and
activities which allow them easy access to children. Most sexual abusers were victims of
abuse themselves. Sexual abusers usually prey on multiple victims. While most sexual
abusers are male, women do abuse children sexually. Male children may be victims as
well as females.
888. Babies born to women who have poorly controlled diabetes are at risk for:
A. hyperglycemia at birth
B. hypoglycemia and respiratory distress
C. hypoglycemia in utero
D. being an excessive size and experiencing hypoglycemia in utero
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Babies are at risk of hyperglycemia in utero when mothers have poorly
controlled diabetes. This results in large babies. Hyperinsulinemia interferes with lung
maturation, putting the child at risk for respiratory distress. The child may develop
hypoglycemia at birth.
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889. A client has a cast on due to a fractured tibia and fibula. The nurse asks the client to
wiggle his toes, which he does freely. The client’s toes are blanchable, warm, and pink.
The client states that he isn’t experiencing numbness or tingling of the extremity or
toes. The nurse concludes that the client has:
Correct answer: A
Rationale: These are signs that the client’s neurovascular status is adequate: Digits are
blanchable, warm, and of normal skin tone when they are getting sufficient circulation.
Clients should be able to wiggle the digits freely. Numbness and tingling should be
absent.
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Clients are put on neutropenic precautions because they are at risk for
developing infections. The white blood cell count is low. This is often due to treatments
for cancer such as chemotherapy or a bone marrow transplant. Creatinine levels
indicate the health of the kidneys.
891. A client is taking ferrous sulfate to treat anemia. He does not take any other
medications. What beverage does the nurse offer the client to drink when the ferrous
sulfate is administered?
A. orange juice
B. milk
C. water
D. coffee
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Correct answer: A
Rationale: Administer iron with vitamin C for maximum absorption and utilization of the
mineral.
A. Genetic make-up
B. inadequate sleep
C. overeating
D. chewing tobacco
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Modifiable risk factors are correctable. They can be changed with behavioral
choices. Non-modifiable risk factors can’t be changed. Examples of nonmodifiable risk
factors include genetics, age, and sex.
893. The client is smoking in bed while using oxygen. What is the highest priority nursing
diagnosis?
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Client safety is the highest priority. Immediate action must be taken to
ensure safety. Altered breathing, noncompliance, and altered thought processes may or
may not be present. Regardless of their presence or absence, safety comes first.
A. cognitive
B. paranoid
C. positive
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D. negative
Correct answer: D
895. The use of an incorrect plan or action to reach a goal, or not performing a therapeutic
action correctly is called a:
A. sentinel event
B. near miss
C. medical error
D. preventable adverse event
Correct answer: C
Rationale: A medical error results when a therapeutic action is not carried out as
planned. An error may also occur when an incorrect action is taken, or a wrong plan is
put in place.
896. This birth control method may result in increased menstrual flow and cramping. Risks
include ectopic pregnancy and pelvic infection. What method of birth control is this?
Correct answer: IUDs initially increase menstrual flow and cramping. Some types
relieve those symptoms over time. The risk of pelvic infection and ectopic pregnancy
increases when IUDs are used. IUDs may become displaced without the woman
knowing it. Pregnancy may result.
897. When an organization or unit is said to have one objective for members or staff to
work towards, that is called having:
A. unity of command
B. unity of direction
C. an organizational culture
D. cultural diversity
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Correct answer: B
898. A client sprained his ankle yesterday. He called the nurse support line as he is
experiencing 3/10 constant achy pain in the ankle. What recommendations does the
nurse make to the client?
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Acute sprains are treated by RICE: Rest, Ice, Compress, and Elevation.
899. Which of the following people is most at risk for committing suicide?
A. A 15-year-old transgender person who comes from a home where substance abuse
and violence are ongoing. The client uses methamphetamine and has a diagnosis of
bipolar depression.
B. A 32-year-old female whose husband has a terminal illness. The woman provides
care for her husband, three young children, and elderly mother.
C. A 47-year-old single father who is worried about his son’s decision to go into the
military and his daughter’s choice of a boyfriend.
D. A 12-year-old female who was recently diagnosed with migraines.
Correct answer: A
Rationale: The 15-year-old has many risk factors for committing suicide. They include
age, sexual orientation other than male or female, dysfunctional family, family history of
substance abuse and violence, personal history of drug use, and diagnosis of bipolar
depression. 32 and 47-year-olds are unlikely to commit suicide due to family
commitments. The 12-year-old doesn't have risk factors which indicate that she is at risk
for self-injury.
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900. A client has an IV running. He suddenly complains of severe shortness of breath and
chest pain. The nurse contacts the physician and places a tourniquet above the IV site.
What is a likely cause of the client’s distress?
A. infection
B. embolus
C. congestive heart failure
D. severe bradycardia
Correct answer: B
Rationale: A pulmonary embolus causes severe shortness of breath and chest pain. The
onset is sudden. An embolus may result from the tip of an intravenous catheter
breaking, thrombus, air in a blood vessel, or fat. It is a medical emergency.
901. While ambulating a client, the nurse notes that the rubber tip is missing on the
bottom of a walker. What does the nurse do first if a replacement tip is not readily
available?
Correct answer: D
902. Risks commonly associated with blood transfusions include all of the following except:
A. allergic reactions
B. sepsis
C. hemolysis
D. hemorrhage
Correct answer: D
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Rationale: People who receive blood transfusions are at risk for allergic reactions. They
may be mild or anaphylactic. Sepsis may arise due to contaminated blood. Hemolysis
results when the donor’s and recipient’s blood are not compatible.
903. Using sedative hypnotics to treat older adults who have sleep disorders may often
cause all of the following except:
Correct answer: D
Rationale: The use of sedative-hypnotic medications can cause falls, ataxia, confusion,
and daytime drowsiness, mainly when administered the geriatric population.
904. Parents with children that have extensive medical needs may feel stress due to:
Correct answer: D
Rationale: Families with children that have chronic medical needs suffer from a wide
array of stressors.
905. When intracranial pressure increases beyond the point that the skull can maintain this
happens:
A. cardiovascular accident
B. seizure activity
C. brain herniation
D. coma
Correct answer: C
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Rationale: Seizure activity and a coma may precede brain herniation. The brain can
herniate downward, laterally, or medially.
906. A nurse didn’t notice that an order was written for a one-time dose of Lasix. She failed
to administer the medication. The client had shortness of breath for the rest of the
day. What type of event occurred?
A. An error of omission
B. A sentinel event
C. An ameliorable adverse event
D. A root cause analysis
Correct answer: A
Rationale: The nurse failed to carry out care by not administering the needed
medication. The omission resulted in harm to the client.
907. The triad of Parkinson's disease includes all of the following except:
A. bradykinesia
B. rigidity
C. tremor
D. hallucinations
Correct answer: D
Rationale: The triad of Parkinson's disease comprises bradykinesia, rigidity, and tremor.
Hallucinations and dementia may develop.
A. two weeks
B. four weeks
C. eight weeks
D. four months
Correct answer: B
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909. Using physical and chemical restraints, facing the client at all times, and not allowing a
client to stand between a staff member and the door of her room are strategies for:
Correct answer: C
Rationale: While caring for violent or potentially violent clients, it is essential that
medical personnel protect themselves from injury. They can do this by utilizing physical
and pharmacological interventions and restraints. It is crucial to face the client at all
times and not allow the client to block an escape route from the room.
910. All of the following are example of bureaucratic leaders’ beliefs except:
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Bureaucratic leaders believe that people are motivated by external rewards
and punishments. They rely heavily on organizational policies and procedures to make
decisions.
911. While getting a client out of bed for the first time after surgery, the client becomes
pale. He says that he feels dizzy. What does the nurse do?
Correct answer: D
Rationale: Promptly assist the client back to bed. Take vital signs. The charge nurse can
be advised later.
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912. Adult day care centers provide all of the following benefits except:
A. residential facilities
B. providing breaks for exhausted family members
C. socialization for clients with dementia
D. safe environments for clients who have behavioral challenges
Correct answer: A
913. A client states that she always has difficulty sleeping. She says when she gets home
from the hospital, she would like to try some over-the-counter remedies to promote
sleep. What are some treatments that may help her?
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Melatonin and calcium calm the nervous system and may enhance sleep.
Green tea and hot chocolate both contain caffeine, which would keep her awake. Iron
supplements are unlikely to affect her rest.
914. The client has a fan in brought in from home while being treated at the rehabilitation
center following hospitalization for COPD. What does the nurse say to the client?
A. I am glad have a fan. It will help you feel more comfortable and you may breathe
better.
B. I just checked your fan. It seems to be in good working order. I will plug it in for you.
C. I need to have the fan inspected by appropriate personnel prior to allowing its use.
D. You may not use the fan as it may blow germs around too much.
Correct answer: C
Rationale: Home equipment must be inspected for safety before it is used. Nurses are
not qualified or authorized to inspect electrical equipment for safety.
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915. A man was sexually abused as a child. He doesn't recall the actual abuse. He indulges
in high-risk behaviors as a result of wounds caused by the abuse. This is an example
of:
A. depression
B. repression
C. displacement
D. a conversion reaction
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Repression occurs when memories are buried. They may still impact
emotions and behaviors.
A. amiodarone
B. epinephrine
C. diphenhydramine
D. prednisone
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Intravenous epinephrine provides the most rapid, effective treatment for
anaphylaxis. It may be administered by other routes, particularly in community settings.
Diphenhydramine and prednisone help to relieve symptoms of allergic reactions.
Amiodarone is used to treat cardiovascular problems.
A. a cold
B. stress
C. autism
D. a developmental delay
Correct answer: B
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Rationale: Stress is a common cause of changes in children's behavior. If the child is
coming down with a cold, similar reactions may occur, but they are likely to be short-
lived. Autism and developmental delays may result in persistent behavioral concerns.
918. The client is receiving chemotherapy at a treatment center located far from his home.
He tells the nurse that he can’t attend his next treatment because he doesn't have
money for transportation or anyone who can give him a ride. The nurse contacts the
American Cancer Society to see if assistance is available. What is the nurse doing?
Correct answer: B
Rationale: The nurse is advocating for the client in an attempt to resolve a client
concern.
919. The nurse is teaching a client how to use an incentive spirometer after surgery. All of
the following instructions are correct except:
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Clients need to inhale slowly and deeply when using a spirometer.
A. cause sleep
B. promote relaxation
C. create hypnosis
D. are sedating when administered in low doses and produce sleep when given in
higher doses
Correct answer: D
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Rationale: Sedative-hypnotics generate relaxation and sedation in small doses. Larger
doses promote sleep.
921. A woman just delivered a baby. The woman has genital herpes. How is the soiled linen
disposed of?
Correct answer: D
Rationale: All dirty linen is handled in the same manner. Soiled linen is always removed
in a way that prevents exposure to skin, mucous membranes, and clothing. It is removed
and stored so that it does not contaminate the environment.
922. A 42-year-old female is hospitalized after overdosing on drugs and alcohol. Family
therapy is recommended. The woman's partner questions why the rest of the family
needs to go to therapy since the 42-year-old is the person with the problem. What
does the nurse say?
A. family therapy can be helpful because when one member of the family has a
problem, everyone else is affected too
B. it's crucial for you to attend so that the 42-year-old will get well
C. this is what is needed to prepare for an intervention
D. there are problems in the family that caused the woman to overdose.
Correct answer: A
Rationale: The nurse must not be judgmental. When one family member is struggling,
the entire family is impacted.
923. A client is on droplet precautions. All of the following protective measures need to be
followed except:
A. people need to wear a mask when they are within 3 feet of the client
B. transport to other areas of the facility should be minimized
C. personnel need to wear an N-95 mask
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D. if transportation of the client is required outside of the hospital room, a mask should
be worn by the client
Correct answer: C
Rationale: Standard masks are appropriate when droplet precautions are used.
924. An eight-year-old child has a fever and cough. He is expectorating thick, green mucus.
The child says he is thirsty. The nurse offers him all of the following beverage choices
except:
A. chamomile tea
B. apple juice
C. whole milk
D. ginger ale
Correct answer: C
Rationale: Whole milk may increase the presence of thick mucus. Clear liquids are
preferable.
925. A woman is receiving Pitocin. She is having prolonged contractions. What does the
nurse need to consider first as a possible cause?
Correct answer: D
Rationale: Pitocin may cause uterine tetany. A sign of uterine tetany is defined as
contractions that last for more than 60 seconds.
926. A client is receiving tube feedings. She develops diarrhea. Which of the following may
be responsible?
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D. A and B are correct
Correct answer: D
Rationale: Diarrhea may occur when clients receive tube feedings. Administering a cold
formula or increasing the amount of formula are common causes of diarrhea. Clients
may be sensitive to ingredients, such as lactose, which is contained in some formulas.
Diarrhea may result if the tube is not secured well and moves into the small intestine.
927. A client is going to have an EEG the following morning at 8 A.M. What instructions
does the nurse give to the client?
Correct answer: D
Rationale: The client must avoid caffeine as it can interfere with the results of the EEG.
The client's hair needs to be washed before and after the procedure.
928. Spending time in nature, prayer, meditation, and using herbs for healing can be
considered:
A. physical exercise
B. spiritual practices
C. religious doctrines
D. high-risk behaviors
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Spiritual practices are often informal. They may be practiced within or
outside of religion.
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929. The nurse just administered 15 units of regular insulin. When is the client at the
highest risk for developing hypoglycemia?
A. within 15 minutes
B. within 30 to 90 minutes
C. within 2 to 3 hours
D. within 4 to 6 hours
Correct answer: C
Rationale: Regular insulin has an onset of 30 to 60 minutes. Its peak action is between 2
to 3 hours after administration. The time of peak action is when hypoglycemia is most
likely to occur. Regular insulin lasts for a duration of 3 to 6 hours. Regular insulin is
short-acting insulin. Examples include Humulin R and Novolin R.
930. The use of negative reinforcements when a client engages in bullying or verbal
outbursts is called:
A. operant conditioning
B. desensitization
C. aversion therapy
D. modeling
Correct answer: C
A. Every 2 hours
B. Every 3 hours
C. Every 4 hours
D. Every 6 hours
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Clients need to be repositioned at least every two hours when bed bound to
avoid problems related to immobility.
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932. All of the following are true about acute rheumatic fever except:
Correct answer: B
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Peak sexual drive in males usually occurs in the teens and early 20s.
Correct answer: B
935. A restraint was applied by a nurse without a complete order regarding instructions for
use and frequency that it was to be removed. The restraint was left on for six hours
longer than the length of time it was ordered for. What is this situation called?
A. A harmless oversight
B. A chemical restraint
C. False imprisonment
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D. Practicing beyond the nurse’s scope of practice
Correct answer: C
936. The nurse is preparing to teach a client. The client is a 45-year-old female who is 70
pounds overweight. The client states that she would like to lose 10 pounds before her
high school reunion which will occur in three months. What does the nurse focus on
teaching the client?
Correct answer: C
Rationale: It is essential to mold teaching to meet the client's goals. Adult learners need
actionable steps which result in measurable achievements.
937. A client fell at the mental health clinic. She stated that she bumped her elbow but it is
not uninjured. The first action that the nurse takes is to:
Correct answer D
Rationale: The nurse needs to conduct an assessment. Providing care for the client is
done before taking other steps whenever an incident occurs.
938. A client states that he has throbbing pain in his knee. The pain is localized and non-
radiating. The client rated as a four on the 0 to 10 pain scale. What type of pain the
client most likely experiencing?
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A. neuropathic
B. psychosomatic
C. somatic
D. acute
Correct answer: C
Rationale: Somatic pain is usually localized. It originates in the muscles, joints, skin, or
connective tissue. There is no indication that the client is experiencing neuropathic pain
which is often described as burning or tingling. There is no evidence the pain is
psychosomatic in origin. No information is given regarding the duration of the pain.
A. glioblastoma
B. astrocytoma
C. bone metastases
D. hemangioma
Correct answer: C
Rationale: Calcium is released when bone is destroyed. Serum calcium levels rise as a
result. An increase in serum calcium levels occurs with metastatic disease to the bone.
940. A client used LSD and PCP 10 years ago. What is he at risk for currently?
A. alcohol addiction
B. nicotine addiction
C. hallucinogenic drug persisting perception disorder
D. seizures
Correct answer: C
Rationale: The client is at risk for hallucinogenic drug persisting perception disorder. The
disorder can cause visual disturbances and hallucinations years after drug use is
discontinued.
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941. The child who dislikes change and new activities is said to be this type of child:
A. immature
B. easy
C. slow to warm up
D. difficult
Correct answer: C
Rationale: Children who are slow to warm up have difficulty accepting new activities.
942. The intimate zone of personal space measures from an individual's body
A. 0 to 18 inches
B. 6 to 24 inches
C. 1 to 3 feet
D. 2 to 6 feet
Correct answer: A
Rationale: The intimate zone of personal space measures from 0 to 18 inches from a
person's body. Most people feel uncomfortable when another person enters that zone.
There are four zones of personal space.
943. Factors which impact the occurrence of repetitive stress injuries include all of the
following except:
A. posture
B. continuous intense activity
C. working in hot environments
D. stress
Correct answer: C
Rationale: Working in cold environments increases the risk of repetitive stress injuries.
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944. Children at the following stage of development think logically. They understand
relationships between ideas, events, and objects. Friends are significant. What stage is
this?
A. toddler
B. preschool
C. school-age
D. teen
Correct answer: C
Rationale: School-age children can think logically and understand relationships between
things and ideas. Their thoughts are no longer exclusively perception based. Friendships
are very important.
Correct answer: A
Rationale: 0.45% sodium chloride is a hypertonic solution. Lactated Ringer's, D5W, and
0.9% normal saline are isotonic solutions. D10W is a hypotonic solution.
946. When Dolophine is used to control pain at end-of-life, nurses need to be aware that:
A. it is highly addictive
B. an oral dose is equal to 1/10 of a parenteral dosage
C. signs of toxicity are cumulative and may not be noticeable for 3 to 5 days
D. a typical starting dose is 100 mg per hour via IV
Correct answer: C
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947. Clients with the following diagnoses are most likely to be at risk for bleeding when
they are being shaved with a hand razor:
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Clients who have diagnoses of atrial fibrillation or pulmonary embolism are
likely to be on anticoagulant medications. Therefore, they are most likely to be at risk
for bleeding while being shaved.
948. A client has a diagnosis of diabetes. The nurse is teaching the client about the
importance of foot care. What does the nurse include in the teaching?
Correct answer: B
Rationale: People with a diagnosis of diabetes must be taught to scrutinize their feet
every day.
949. All of the following maternal characteristics are risk factors for a child being born with
congenital heart disease except:
A. alcohol user
B. maternal age greater than 40
C. exposure to measles during pregnancy
D. exposure to chickenpox during pregnancy
Correct answer: D
Rationale: Women who use alcohol during pregnancy or have type I diabetes risk
delivering a baby who has congenital heart disease. Maternal age greater than 40 or
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exposure to measles during pregnancy increase the likelihood of congenital heart
disease occurring.
950. Which of the following statements is not made when teaching a mother to do cord
care after the birth of her baby?
Correct answer: A
Rationale: It is currently recommended that the cord area is cleaned with plain water,
not alcohol.
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Risk factors increase a person's likelihood of injury or illness. They may be
internal or external.
952. A nurse is administering eye drops to a toddler. The toddler grabs the tip of the open
bottle and pushes the nurse’s hand away. What does the nurse do?
Correct answer: C
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Rationale: The bottle of eye drops must be disposed of. The container is no longer
sterile. The nurse needs to obtain a new container of drops.
953. The main reason that saturated dressings are changed is that:
Correct answer: D
Rationale: The main reason that saturated dressings are changed is to prevent infection.
Microorganisms thrive in warm moist environments. Changing the dressing promotes
comfort, reduces leakage, and looks better, but those are not as important as reducing
the risk of infection.
954. An eight-year-old boy is being evaluated at a community mental health center. The
child is of average height and weight for his age. He enjoys playing with his siblings.
The boy says that he is a good student. He says that he felt sad and cried when his pet
bunny died. What is a possible diagnosis for this child?
Correct answer: C
955. Which client should be assigned a room close to the nurses’ station?
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Correct answer: A
Rationale: The client who requires suicide precautions has the highest risk of injury.
Therefore he should be housed closest to the nurse’s station in order to facilitate
frequent observation and safety.
956. A 35-year-old male has a pulse rate of 50. His blood pressure is 80/46. The nurse is
preparing to administer one unit of packed red blood cells. Which of the following
terms describes the man’s cardiovascular status?
Correct answer: C
Rationale: A low cardiac output is indicated by the slow pulse, low blood pressure, and
fluid volume deficit.
957. The client has asthma. When providing instructions about the disease the nurse
explains to the client that he may have a sensitivity to:
A. acetaminophen
B. aspirin
C. aluminum-containing antacids
D. adrenaline
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Clients with asthma have an increased risk of sensitivity to salicylates and
salicylic acid.
958. While caring for a client who has active tuberculosis, all of the following are needed
except:
A. contact precautions
B. airborne precautions
C. a single occupancy room
D. negative pressure airflow ventilation
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Correct answer: A
Rationale: Clients who are being treated for active tuberculosis need to be placed in a
private room that has negative pressure airflow ventilation. Airborne precautions must
be in place. HEPA masks are necessary.
Correct answer: A
960. A client is being treated for an overdose of heroin. What medication should be
administered?
A. flumazenil
B. naloxone
C. diazepam
D. varenicline
Correct answer: B
961. A client has bacterial meningitis. The nurse limits suctioning because it can:
Correct answer: A
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Rationale: It is vital to avoid increasing intracranial pressure when a client has bacterial
meningitis. Suctioning stimulates the cough reflex and the Valsalva maneuver. Both
increase pressure in the brain. Blood flow to the brain temporarily increases. The
cerebral veins experience a decrease in drainage. Suction is limited to prevent the cough
reflex and the Valsalva maneuver.
962. A nurse is educating a client about Teletherapy. The nurse provides the following
information except:
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Teletherapy uses radiation from an external source. Targets are marked by
tattooing the skin. Hair loss, fatigue, and skin damage are common.
963. A client had a thoracentesis performed one hour ago. He is most at risk for:
A. pneumothorax
B. aspiration pneumonia
C. wound infection
D. gastric reflux
Correct answer: A
Rationale: During the immediate post-procedure phase, the client is most at risk for
pneumothorax. An infection could develop at the site, but it would take longer than one
hour. The client is not at risk for aspiration pneumonia or gastric reflux as a result of the
procedure.
964. Which of the following is considered a normal body temperature when using the
Celsius scale?
A. 37
B. 38.5
C. 98
D. 98.6
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Correct answer: A
965. A nurse failed to wear sterile gloves while performing a sterile procedure. What
occurred?
A. Negligence
B. An adverse event
C. An assault
D. Battery
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Negligence occurred because the nurse failed to maintain the standard of
care.
966. The client in the intensive care unit is an adult female. Her urinary output is 10ccs per
hour. She has D5/0.45 NS infusing at 75 milliliters per hour. What does the nurse
conclude?
Correct answer: A
Rationale: The urine output is low. Further investigation and interventions are needed.
967. A client is resting quietly with her eyes closed. She states her pain level is a 9/ 10 and
requests that pain medication be given. The nurse concludes that the woman:
A. is drug seeking
B. doesn’t understand the pain scale
C. is experiencing a high level of pain
D. must have a low tolerance to pain
Correct answer: C
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Rationale: No evidence is provided that indicates the woman is drug seeking or doesn’t
comprehend the pain scale. Whether or not the woman has a low pain tolerance is
irrelevant.
968. The woman perceives that she is experiencing a great deal of pain. Not all clients
outwardly
Correct answer: C
Rationale: Most clients with cystic fibrosis are white males. However, females and
people of other races can have cystic fibrosis.
969. Which of the following clients are most at risk for experiencing sensory or cognitive
distortions:
A. a 6-year-old who has a temperature of 39.9 Celsius and is dehydrated due to acute
gastroenteritis
B. a 40-year-old female with a kidney stone and a pain level of 5/10
C. an 80-year-old client with 20/40 vision and a fractured ankle
D. a woman in labor who is about to deliver twins vaginally
Correct answer: A
Rationale: The six-year-old child is most at risk for developing sensory or cognitive
distortions, including hallucinations. The high fever and dehydration are risk factors for
sensory impairment. Children are particularly vulnerable to dehydration because of
their small size.
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970. Alcohol and drug use, rectal sex, and not using condoms increase rates of:
A. pregnancy
B. sexually transmitted diseases
C. hepatic cancer
D. rectal bleeding
Correct answer: B
971. A newborn is crying incessantly, arching her back, refusing to nurse, and grimacing.
What tool should be utilized?
A. Apgar scale
B. CRIES scale
C. Bili light
D. Cardiac monitor
Correct answer: B
Rationale: The baby is showing signs of pain. The CRIES scale is used to assess pain in
newborns. The nurse should also check the baby to ensure that the child’s primary
needs for a dry diaper, proper positioning, warmth, and food are met.
972. The client has a chronic debilitating disease. Preventative efforts are put in place to
prevent further decline. What kind of preventative actions is being used?
A. primary,
B. secondary
C. tertiary
D. none. The activities are not preventative since illness is already occurring
Correct answer: C
Rationale: Preventative measures that are used to prevent further decline when disease
or disability is already present are considered to be tertiary preventative measures.
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973. Reassurance, touch, and simply sitting with a client are techniques which may reduce
a client’s:
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Words, touch, and being present with a client may reduce emotional distress.
974. Reduced emotional or spiritual distress leads to enhanced physical comfort and a
greater capacity for learning. Ask clients for permission prior to touching them or
sitting with them as some individuals may feel increased distress when touched or in
the presence of healthcare providers. The nurse conducted a physical assessment
examination. The following information is recorded as part of the general survey
except:
A. behavior
B. nutritional status
C. lung sounds
D. level of consciousness
Correct answer: C
Rationale: A general or initial survey includes basic information about a client’s overall
presentation. Vital signs are sometimes added. Nutritional status, behavior, level of
consciousness, ability to move, speech, and general features are recorded. Lung sounds
are evaluated and documented later in the assessment.
975. Clients who have poorly controlled diabetes risk developing impaired sensory
perceptions related to the following stimuli:
Correct answer: B
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Rationale: Frequently, clients who have a diagnosis of diabetes have visual impairments
and difficulty perceiving touch and temperature. Client care and teaching must address
safety and sensory impairments.
A. 3 months
B. 4 to 6 months
C. 12 months
D. 12 to 18 months
Correct answer: D
Rationale: The anterior fontanelle closes between the ages of 12 and 18 months.
Correct answer: B
Rationale: 12 step programs are available for individuals overcoming a wide array of
addictions. There are available for family members as well. 12 step programs can be
found in the community, jails, healthcare settings, and online.
A. psoriasis
B. acne vulgaris
C. lipoma
D. tinea pedis
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Psoriasis is an autoimmune disease. There are many forms of psoriasis. Some
types are mild while others are severe. Psoriatic arthritis develops in some people.
Psoriasis usually runs in families. The onset is usually before the age of 40.
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979. A client is receiving hospice services in the home setting. A fentanyl patch is ordered
for pain management. When will pain relief likely start to occur after the first patch is
applied?
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Pain relief will begin within 12 to 15 hours after application of the patch.
Peak levels of the drug will not be obtained for 48 hours after application.
A. phenylephrine, Neo-Synephrine
B. sodium nitroprusside, nipride
C. norepinephrine, levophed
D. hydrocortisone, Solu-cortef
Correct answer: A
981. A woman is in labor. Her cervix is dilated 9 centimeters. She screams, swears, and yells
“don’t touch me.” She demands that she be given a narcotic. She is most likely
showing these behaviors because:
A. she is an addict
B. she has a low tolerance to pain
C. those behaviors are typical of her cultural group
D. she is in the transition phase of labor.
Correct answer: D
Rationale: All of the behaviors are within a range of normal responses for a woman
during the transition stage of labor.
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982. The client has patient-controlled analgesia. He has a 500-milliliter bag of normal saline
hanging. It contains 1000 mg of hydromorphone. The order reads for the client to
receive 4 mg of hydromorphone every hour via continuous infusion. The client may
receive a bolus dose of 1 mg every 15 minutes as needed. What is the bolus dose?
A. 0.1 mL
B. 0.2 mL
C. 0.25 mL
D. 0.5 mL
Correct answer: D
983. Clients with low levels of serum phosphate are treated with:
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Clients with low levels of serum phosphate need phosphate replaced.
Calcium phosphate may be administered intravenously or by mouth. High phosphorus
foods, such as milk and eggs, are encouraged. The client requires cardiac monitoring if
the deficiency is severe. Clients at risk for phosphate loss include those who lose fluid,
are malnourished, have leukemia, lymphoma, osteomalacia, or are alcoholic. Genetics,
the use of certain diuretics, aluminum-containing antacids, and theophylline use can
contribute to depleting phosphate from the body. Untreated hypophosphatemia is life-
threatening.
984. What is the primary goal of producing a barbiturate coma when someone has a head
injury?
A. to enhance comfort
B. to reduce the metabolic demands on the brain and preserve function
C. prevent seizures
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D. prevent restlessness
Correct answer: B
985. Changes in body temperature may result from all of the following except:
Correct answer: D
Rationale: Body temperature may change due to injury and various illnesses. The
circadian rhythm and hormonal variations cause changes in body temperature. Exposure
to high or very low temperatures may change the temperature of the body.
986. A client has red cloudy urine. She states she has urinary frequency and burning. Her
temperature is 100 degrees Fahrenheit. She has low back pain. What test(s) should be
done first?
Correct answer: A
Rationale: The woman has classic symptoms of a urinary tract infection. The simplest,
inexpensive, noninvasive test that can be performed quickly is a urinalysis. The culture
and sensitivity results will take time to obtain but the urinalysis will provide immediate
information. The other tests may not be needed.
987. The third highest cause of death in the United States is due to:
A. Cerebrovascular Accidents
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B. Diabetes Mellitus
C. Medical errors
D. Cancer
Correct answer: C
Rationale: One out of every ten deaths in the USA is due to medical errors.
988. A six-year-old girl is hospitalized for an extended period following a motor vehicle
crash. She is bedbound much of the time. Which of the following would provide her
the most sensory stimulation?
Correct answer: A
Correct answer: B
990. Which of the following clients has the highest risk of developing a postoperative
infection?
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Correct answer: B
Rationale: Clients who undergo bowel surgery have a higher risk of developing an
infection. Individuals who experience surgery as a result of trauma have a higher risk of
infection. Individuals who are malnourished or have chronic illnesses are at risk. Obese
people and people who have diabetes experience poor wound healing and infection.
People who have addictions to drugs and alcohol are at-risk. Individuals who require
immune-suppressing medications are high risk for infection.
A. infection
B. hemorrhage
C. preterm labor
D. All of the above
Correct answer: D
Rationale: Amniocentesis can cause infection, hemorrhage, preterm labor, and leakage
of amniotic fluid. Alternative studies are used when possible to avoid the risks.
992. Which of the following clients may need to be on a fluid volume restriction?
Correct answer: A
Rationale: People who have congestive heart failure are at risk for potential or actual
fluid volume excess and may need to be on a fluid restriction.
993. The nurse just administered 20 units of Novolin N. When is the clients most at risk for
developing hypoglycemia?
A. within 30 to 60 minutes
B. within one to two hours
C. within 4 to 10 hours
D. within 10 to 16 hours
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Correct answer: C
994. A client is receiving a blood transfusion. The client complains of flank pain and
respiratory distress. Her blood pressure is 60/40, and her heart rate is 120. She has
minimal urine output. The urine is dark brown. A diagnosis of hemolysis is made, and
the woman receives emergency treatment. What does the nurse need to do?
Correct answer: A
995. A lump was identified when a client had a routine mammogram. The nurse is
providing education and emotional support for the client. She tells the client that a
diagnosis of cancer has not been made. It can only be made by:
Correct answer: B
Rationale: A biopsy is needed to make a definitive diagnosis of cancer. The lump does
not need to be removed to make the diagnosis. A fine needle aspiration biopsy or
stereotactic biopsy technique may be used. An ultrasound is used to differentiate solid
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tumors from fluid-filled cysts. Blood tests are performed to identify the presence of
specific types of cancer and changes that occur when cancers are present.
A. pulmonary edema
B. pneumonitis
C. pancreatitis
D. cholelithiasis
Correct answer: C
Rationale: Pancreatitis may occur after an ERCP. The nurse also needs to monitor for
signs and symptoms of perforation and infection. Vital signs need to be monitored
carefully. The nurse needs to ensure that the client’s gag reflex returns.
A. primary defenses
B. secondary defenses
C. tertiary defenses
D. pathogens
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Phagocytosis, the complement cascade, inflammation, and fever are the
body’s secondary defenses against infection and disease.
Correct answer: A
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Rationale: All members of the perioperative team stop activity during a surgical
timeout. Time is taken to identify that the correct procedure will be performed to the
correct site on the correct client.
999. A client has a bundle branch block. He is symptomatic. The problem is ongoing. What
treatment is needed?
A. defibrillation
B. pacemaker
C. cardioversion
D. valve repair
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Clients with a bundle branch block which persists and creates symptoms
need to have a pacemaker inserted. Bundle branch blocks arise due to a conduction
defect in the Purkinje fibers. Bundle branch blocks can also be the result of cardiac
disease or surgery.
A. A. respiration
B. B. Independent circulation
C. C. urine production
D. D. All of the above
Correct answer: D
1001. A nurse is about to give a child with a fever a tepid bath. While getting supplies
together, the nurse knows that the following would not be necessary for the bath?
A. [Link] pajamas
B. [Link] and washcloths
C. [Link] of alcohol
D. [Link]
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Correct Answer: C.
Rationale: Alcohol can cause chilling, peripheral vasoconstriction, and rapid cooling,
making the temperature rise even more; so it shouldn’t be used when bathing a child
with a fever. Washcloths can be squeezed so that water drips on the child’s body. The
child can then be dried off with towels. Toys can be used as a distraction during the
bath. After the child is dried off, light weight clothing can be put on the child
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Congratulations! You just completed a total of 1001 questions in preparation for your NCLEX-
RN. You will ace the test! All of your hard work is paying off. I will congratulate you in advance
on becoming a Registered Nurse. Welcome to an amazing career!
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