1.
After change of shift, you are assigned to care for the following patients. Which patient should you assess first?
Correct Answer
D. A 50-year old with asthma who complains of shortness of breath after using a bronchodilator
Explanation
The patient with asthma did not achieve relief from shortness of breath after using the bronchodilator and is at risk for respiratory complications. This patient’s needs are urgent. The other patients need to be assessed as soon as possible, but none of their situations are urgent. in COPD patients pulse oximetry oxygen saturations of more than 90% are acceptable.
2.
An experienced LPN, under the supervision of the team leader RN, is providing nursing care for a patient with a respiratory problem. Which actions are appropriate to the scope of practice of an experienced LPN? Select all that apply.
Correct Answer(s)
A. Auscultate breath sounds
B. Administer medications via metered-dose inhaler (MDI)
Explanation
The experienced LPN is capable of gathering data and making observations, including noting breath sounds and performing pulse oximetry. Administering medications, such as those delivered via MDIs, is within the scope of practice of the LPN. Independently completing the admission assessment, initiating the nursing care plan, and evaluating a patient’s abilities require additional education and skills. These actions are within the scope of practice of the professional RN.
3.
pH 7.6
PaCO2 53
HCO3- 38
Correct Answer
B. Metabolic Alkalosis
Explanation
The given pH value of 7.6 indicates alkalosis, which means the blood is more basic than normal. The elevated HCO3- level of 38 suggests a primary metabolic alkalosis. The PaCO2 level of 53 is not consistent with respiratory acidosis, as it would be expected to be elevated in that case. Therefore, the most appropriate explanation for the given values is metabolic alkalosis.
4.
pH 7.17
PaCO2 48
HCO3- 36
Correct Answer
C. Respiratory Acidosis
Explanation
The given values indicate a pH level below the normal range (7.35-7.45), which suggests acidosis. The elevated PaCO2 (partial pressure of carbon dioxide) of 48 indicates respiratory acidosis, as an increase in PaCO2 leads to an increase in carbonic acid and a decrease in pH. The HCO3- (bicarbonate) level of 36 is within the normal range (22-28), ruling out metabolic acidosis. Therefore, the correct answer is respiratory acidosis.
5.
Nurse Channing is caring for four clients and is preparing to do his initial rounds. Which client should the nurse assess first?
Correct Answer
B. A 35-year-old male with tracheostomy and copious secretions.
Explanation
The patient with problem of the airway should be given highest priority. Remember Airway, Breathing, and Circulation (ABC) is a priority.
6.
You are providing care for a patient with recently diagnosed asthma. Which key points would you be sure to include in your teaching plan for this patient? (Select all that apply)
Correct Answer(s)
A. Avoid potential environmental asthma triggers such as smoke
B. Use the inhaler 30 minutes before exercising to prevent bronchospasm
D. Be sure to get at least 8 hours of rest and sleep every night.
E. Avoid foods prepared with monosodium glutamate (MSG)
Explanation
Bedding should be washed in hot water to destroy dust mites. All of the other points are accurate and appropriate to a teaching plan for a patient with a new diagnosis of asthma.
7.
You have obtained the following assessment information about a 3-year old who has just returned to the pediatric unit after having a tonsillectomy. Which finding requires the most immediate follow-up?
Correct Answer
A. Frequent swallowing
Explanation
Frequent swallowing after a tonsillectomy may indicate bleeding. You should inspect the back of the throat for evidence of bleeding. The other assessment results are not unusual in a 3-year old after surgery
8.
Which of the following treatment goals is best for the client with status asthmatics?
Correct Answer
A. Avoiding intubation
Explanation
Inhaled beta-adrenergic agents, I.V. corticosteroids, and supplemental oxygen are used to reduce bronchospasm, improve oxygenation, and avoid intubation. Determining the trigger for the client’s attack and improving exercise tolerance are later goals. Typically, secretions aren’t a problem in status asthmaticus.
9.
The healthcare provider is admitting a patient with a diagnosis of iron-deficiency anemia. The patient's skin and conjunctiva are pale, the tongue is smooth and red, and there are sores on the corners of the mouth. Which additional assessment finding will the healthcare provider identify as related to the iron-deficiency anemia?
Correct Answer
A. Spoon-shaped nails
Explanation
Spoon-shaped nails, also known as koilonychia, are a classic sign of iron-deficiency anemia. In this condition, the nails become thin and concave, resembling a spoon. This occurs due to a decrease in the production of hemoglobin, which is responsible for carrying oxygen to the nails. Therefore, the presence of spoon-shaped nails suggests that the patient's iron-deficiency anemia is causing this abnormal nail shape.
10.
Which of the following blood tests is most indicative of cardiac damage?
Correct Answer
C. Troponin I
Explanation
Option C: Troponin I levels rise rapidly and are detectable within 1 hour of myocardial injury. Troponin I levels aren’t detectable in people without cardiac injury.
11.
What is the primary reason for administering morphine to a client with myocardial infarction?
Correct Answer
D. To decrease oxygen demand on the client’s heart
Explanation
Answer: D. To decrease oxygen demand on the client’s heart
Option D: Morphine is administered because it decreases myocardial oxygen demand.
Options A, B, and C: Morphine will also decrease pain and anxiety while causing sedation, but isn’t primarily given for those reasons.
12.
The client is diagnosed w Type 1 diabetes has an A1C of 8.1%. Which interpretation should the nurse make based on this result
Correct Answer
C. This result is above recommended levels
Explanation
The nurse should interpret that the A1C result of 8.1% is above the recommended levels. A1C is a test that measures the average blood sugar levels over the past 2-3 months. For individuals with type 1 diabetes, the target A1C level is usually below 7%. Therefore, a result of 8.1% indicates that the client's blood sugar levels have been consistently higher than the recommended range. This may indicate poor glycemic control and the need for adjustments in the client's diabetes management plan.
13.
The client received 10 units of Humulin R, a fast acting insulin, at 0700. At the 1030 the unlicensed assistive personnel (UAP) tells the nurse the client has a headache and is really acting “funny.” Which intervention should the nurse implement first?
Correct Answer
C. Go to clients room and asses the client for hypoglycemia
Explanation
The correct answer is to go to the client's room and assess the client for hypoglycemia. This is the first intervention the nurse should implement because the client's symptoms of a headache and acting "funny" could be signs of hypoglycemia, which is a potential complication of receiving fast-acting insulin. Assessing the client's condition will help determine if their symptoms are due to low blood glucose levels and if immediate treatment is needed. Obtaining blood glucose, having the patient drink orange juice, and preparing to administer dextrose may be necessary interventions, but assessing the client's condition is the priority.
14.
A 36 year old male is newly diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes. Which of the following treatments do you expect the patient to be started on initially?
Correct Answer
A. Diet and exercise regime
Explanation
The initial treatment for a newly diagnosed patient with Type 2 diabetes is usually a diet and exercise regime. This is because lifestyle modifications, such as healthy eating and regular physical activity, can help improve blood sugar control and reduce the need for medication. It is important to promote weight loss and a healthy lifestyle as the first step in managing Type 2 diabetes. Medications like Metformin or insulin may be added later if lifestyle changes alone are not sufficient to control blood sugar levels.
15.
A family member asks the nurse to explain the purpose of hospice care. Which of the following is the best response? Hospice care:
Correct Answer
D. Is holistic care for patients dying or debilitated and not expected to improve
Explanation
Hospice care focuses on holistic care of patients actively dying or not expected to improve. It helps patients face death with dignity and comfort. Euthanasia refers to the deliberate ending of a life. Palliative care is aggressively planned care that manages symptoms of patients whose disease process no longer responds to treatment. Aggressive medical treatment is aimed at stopping the disease process.
16.
When taking a health history, the nurse screens for manifestations suggestive of Diabetes Type I. Which of the following manifestations are considered the primary manifestations of Diabetes Type I and would be most suggestive and require follow-up investigation?
Correct Answer
B. An increase in three areas: thirst, intake of fluids, and hunger
Explanation
An increase in three areas: thirst, intake of fluids, and hunger are considered the primary manifestations of Diabetes Type I. These symptoms are indicative of excessive glucose levels in the blood, which leads to increased thirst and fluid intake to try and dilute the glucose. The increased hunger is a result of the body's inability to properly use glucose for energy. These symptoms would require follow-up investigation to confirm a diagnosis of Diabetes Type I.
17.
A patient with nasogastric suctioning is experiencing diarrhea. The patient is ordered a morning dose of Lasix 20mg IV. Patient’s potassium level is 3.0. What is your next nursing intervention?
Correct Answer
A. Hold the dose of Lasix and notify the doctor for further orders
Explanation
The correct answer is to hold the dose of Lasix and notify the doctor for further orders. Diarrhea can lead to fluid and electrolyte imbalances, including low potassium levels. Lasix is a diuretic that can further decrease potassium levels. Therefore, it is important to hold the dose and notify the doctor to assess the patient's condition and determine if any adjustments need to be made to the medication regimen.
18.
A patient has a potassium level of 2.0. What would you expect to be ordered for this patient?
Correct Answer
B. Infusion of Potassium intravenously
Explanation
A potassium level of 2.0 is considered critically low (normal range is 3.5-5.0 mEq/L). To correct this deficiency, the most appropriate and effective method would be to administer potassium intravenously through an infusion. This allows for a controlled and gradual increase in potassium levels, ensuring patient safety and preventing complications associated with rapid administration. Oral supplements may not be effective in cases of severe deficiency, and intramuscular injections may not provide the immediate correction needed.
19.
A patient with a potassium level of 2.1 has been taking Lasix daily. What medication will the patient most likely be switched to?
Correct Answer
A. Spironolactone
Explanation
A potassium level of 2.1 indicates severe hypokalemia (low potassium levels). Lasix (furosemide) is a loop diuretic that can cause potassium loss. Therefore, the patient will most likely be switched to Spironolactone, which is a potassium-sparing diuretic. Spironolactone helps to retain potassium in the body and can help correct the low potassium levels caused by Lasix. Hydrochlorothiazide and bumetanide are also diuretics but are not potassium-sparing like Spironolactone.
20.
A patient is being discharged home on Hydrochlorothiazide (HCTZ) for treatment of hypertension. Which of the following statements by the patient indicates they understood your discharge teaching about this medication?
Correct Answer
C. I will make sure I consume foods high in potassium.
Explanation
Hydrochlorothiazide is a diuretic thus excess potassium can be excreted through the urine.
21.
Which of the following patients is not a candidate for a beta blocker medication?
Correct Answer
C. A 39 year old female with asthma.
Explanation
A 39 year old female with asthma is not a candidate for a beta blocker medication because beta blockers can cause bronchoconstriction and worsen symptoms in patients with asthma.
22.
Which patient(s) are most at risk for developing coronary artery disease? Select-all-that-apply:
Correct Answer(s)
B. A 35 year old male with a BMI of 30 and reports smoking 2 packs of cigarettes a day.
C. A 45 year old female that reports her father died at the age of 42 from a myocardial infarction.
D. A 29 year old that has type I diabetes.
Explanation
Remember risk factors for developing CAD include: smoking, family history, diabetes, being overweight or obese, and high cholesterol.
23.
A patient reports during a routine check-up that he is experiencing chest pain and shortness of breath while performing activities. He states the pain goes away when he rests. This is known as:
Correct Answer
C. Stable angina
Explanation
Stable angina occurs during activities but goes away when the patient rests. Variant and Prinzmetal angina are the same and occur at rest during cycles. Unstable angina is chest pain felt during rest and is more severe.
24.
You're providing education to a patient who will be undergoing a heart catheterization. Which statement by the patient requires you to re-educate the patient about this procedure?
Correct Answer
A. “The brachial artery is most commonly used for this procedure.”
Explanation
The femoral or radial artery is used during a heart cath...not the brachial.
25.
A patient calls the cardiac clinic you are working at and reports that they have taken 3 sublingual doses of Nitroglycerin as prescribed for chest pain, but the chest pain is not relieved. What do you educate the patient to do next?
Correct Answer
B. Call 911 immediately
Explanation
If a patient's chest pain is not relieved with 3 doses of Nitroglycerin, taken 5 minutes apart, they should call 911 immediately. The patient should never exceed more than 3 doses of Nitroglycerin or take 2 doses at one time.
26.
Select-all-that-apply: Which of the following are NOT typical signs and symptoms of pericarditis?
Correct Answer(s)
B. Increased pain when leaning forward
E. Breathing in relieves the pain
Explanation
These are findings NOT found in pericarditis. B is wrong because leaning forward actually helps relieve pain felt in pericarditis (supine position makes it worst). E is wrong because inspiration (breathing in) increases the pain felt with pericarditis.
27.
Which of the following patients are MOST at risk for developing endocarditis? Select-all-that-apply:
Correct Answer(s)
A. A 25 year old male who reports using intravenous drugs on a daily basis.
B. A 55 year old male who is post-opt from aortic valve replacement.
D. A 66 year old female who recently had an invasive dental procedure performed 1 month ago and is having a fever.
Explanation
Options A, B, and D are all risks for developing endocarditis. Remember that any thing that allows entry of bacteria into the system can potentially cause endocarditis. Option C is not relevant.
28.
Which patients are NOT a candidate for tissue plasminogen activator (tPA) for the treatment of stroke?*
A. A patient with a CT scan that is negative.
Correct Answer(s)
B. A patient whose blood pressure is 200/110.
D. A patient who received Heparin 24 hours ago.
Explanation
Patients who are experiencing signs and symptoms of a hemorrhagic stroke, who have a BP >185/110, and has received heparin or any other anticoagulants etc. are NOT a candidate for tPA. tPA is only for an ischemic stroke.
29.
Which of the following are NOT typical signs and symptoms of right-sided heart failure? Select-all-that-apply:
Correct Answer(s)
B. Persistent cough
D. Crackles
F. Orthopnea
Explanation
Persistent cough, crackles (also called rales), and orthopnea are signs and symptoms of LEFT-sided heart failure...not right-sided heart failure.
Left= Lungs Right = Body
30.
A nurse is educating a patient about their new pacemaker, what should the nurse teach the patient to monitor.
Correct Answer
C. Heart Rate
Explanation
The nurse should teach the patient to monitor their heart rate. This is important because the pacemaker is responsible for regulating the patient's heart rate. By monitoring their heart rate, the patient can ensure that the pacemaker is functioning properly and that their heart is beating at a normal rate. This can help in identifying any potential issues or abnormalities with the pacemaker or the patient's heart rhythm.
31.
What assessment is used when monitoring cellulitis?
Correct Answer
C. Mark the initial border and monitor change.
Explanation
When monitoring cellulitis, marking the initial border and monitoring change is the appropriate assessment to use. Cellulitis is a bacterial skin infection that can spread rapidly, so it is important to track the progression of the infection. By marking the initial border and monitoring any changes, such as increased redness, swelling, or spreading of the infection, healthcare providers can assess the effectiveness of treatment and determine if further intervention is necessary. Monitoring drainage amount or color on dressing and assessing pain may provide additional information, but they are not specific to monitoring cellulitis.
32.
Which of the following instructions would Nurse Courtney include in a teaching plan that focuses on initial prevention for Sheri who is diagnosed with rheumatic fever?
Correct Answer
A. Treating streptococcal throat infections with an antibiotic
Explanation
Rheumatoid fever results from improperly treated group beta-hemolytic streptococcal infections, usually pharyngitis. Therefore, prompt treatment of streptococcal throat infections with an antibiotic is a key preventive measure.
33.
A home care nurse provides instructions to the mother of an infant with cleft palate regarding feeding. Which statement if made by the mother indicates a need for further instructions?
Correct Answer
B. “I will stimulate sucking by rubbing the nipple on the lower lip.”
Explanation
An infant with cleft palate would have difficulty in feeding despite stimulation for sucking.
34.
The nurse is teaching the mother on how to take meticulous care of her child who is experiencing failure to thrive. The mother would not be correct in saying:
Correct Answer
C. “I will talk to the child in a loud and booming way so that he could be stimulated and respond accordingly.”
Explanation
Talk to the child in a warm, soothing tone to provide sensory stimulation.
A, B, D: All these options are correct interventions for a child who has failure to thrive.
35.
The public health nurse is giving a lecture on potential outbreaks of infectious meningitis. Which population is most at risk for an outbreak?
Correct Answer
B. Residents of a college dormitory.
Explanation
Outbreaks of infectious meningitis are most likely to occur in dense community groups such as college campuses, jails, and military installations.
36.
A patient who had a mitral valve replacement with a prosthetic mechanical valve and is ready for discharge home. Which information should the healthcare provider include in the discharge teaching for this patient?
Select all that apply.
Correct Answer(s)
B. "If you plan to become pregnant be sure to consult your healthcare provider."
C. "You may need to take an antibiotic before certain medical dental procedures."
D. "You will need to come in regularly for coagulation studies."
E. "Call our office immediately if you experience an infection of any kind."
Explanation
The correct answer choices provide important information regarding the patient's specific needs after a mitral valve replacement with a prosthetic mechanical valve. Planning to become pregnant requires consultation with a healthcare provider due to potential risks and adjustments that may need to be made. Taking antibiotics before certain medical dental procedures is necessary to prevent infective endocarditis. Regular coagulation studies are necessary to monitor the patient's blood clotting ability. Immediate reporting of any infection is crucial to prevent complications.
37.
When a patient has long-term atrial fibrillation, the nurse would expect to include which drug in the plan of care to minimize the greatest risk that is commonly associated with atrial fibrillation?
Correct Answer
C. Anticoagulants
Explanation
c.) is correct because it reflects the greatest risk or complication of thrombi or emboli that occurs with long-term atrial fibrillation. Coumadin is often given prophylactically to prevent stroke, clots, or emboli from developing when hospitalizing a patient with long-term atrial fibrillation.
38.
A 6 year-old is admitted with sickle cell crisis. The patient has a FACE scale rating of 10 and the following vital signs: HR 115, BP 120/82, RR 18, oxygen saturation 91%, temperature 101.4'F. Select all the appropriate nursing interventions for this patient at this time?
Correct Answer(s)
A. Administer IV MorpHine per MD order
B. Administer oxygen per MD order
E. Start intravenous fluids per MD order
G. Keep patient on bed rest
H. Remove restrictive clothing or objects from the patient
Explanation
To help alleviate the RBCs from clumping together and sickling, oxygen and hydration are priority. In addition, pain needs to be addressed. Opioid medication is the best on a scheduled basis rather than PRN (as needed). Avoid keeping patient NPO unless needed (remember patient needs hydration). Avoid cold compresses (can lead to more sickling) but instead use warm compresses. The patient will need FOLIC ACID supplements to help with RBC creation rather than iron (iron can actually build up in the body and collect in the organs in patients with sickle cell disease). Patients definitely need to be on bedrest, and restrictive clothing or objects (blood pressure cuff etc.) should be removed to help blood flow.
39.
A nurse cares for a patient who recently completed genetic testing that revealed that she has a BRCA1 gene mutation. Which actions should the nurse take next?
Correct Answer(s)
A. Discuss potential risks for other members of her family.
B. Assist the client to make a plan for prevention and risk reduction.
E. Assess the client's response to the test results.
Explanation
The RN can asses the client's response to the test results, discuss potential risks for other family members, encourage genetic counseling, and assist the client to make a plan for prevention, risk reduction, and early detection.
Perform self-examinations monthly a week after the end of your period.
A person who test positive with BRCA1 should have at least yearly mammograms and ovarian ultrasounds.
40.
A nurse has taught a client about dietary changes that can reduce the chances of developing cancer. What statement by the client indicates the nurse needs to provide additional teaching?
Correct Answer
C. "I'm so glad I don't have to give up my juicy steaks."
Explanation
To decrease the risk of developing cancer, one should cut down on the consumption of red meats and animal fat. The other statements are correct.
41.
A client receiving IV chemotherapy asks the nurse the reason for wearing a mask, gloves, and gown while administering drugs to the client. What is the nurse's best response?
Correct Answer
D. "The clothing protects me from accidentally absorbing these drugs."
Explanation
Most chemotherapy drugs are absorbed through the skin and mucous membranes. As a result health care workers who prepare or give these drugs are at risk for absorbing the,.
42.
A client is on chemotherapy and has a platelet count of 25,000. Which intervention is most important to teach the client?
Correct Answer
C. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush
Explanation
This client has thrombocytopenia which is a common s/e of chemotherapy. This increases the clients risk for prolonged bleeding in response to even minor injury.
43.
The nurse is administering a combination of three different antineoplatic drugs to a patient who has metastatic breast cancer. Which statement best describes the rationale for combination therapy?
Correct Answer
B. Increased cancer-cell killing will occur.
Explanation
Exposure to multiple mechanisms and sites of action will destroy more sub-populations of cells.
44.
Which client problem does the nurse set as the priority for the client experiencing chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy?
Correct Answer
B. Risk for injury related to sensory and motor deficits.
Explanation
Safety is always priority.
45.
In staging and grading neoplasm TNM system is used. TNM stands for:
Correct Answer
B. Tumor, Node, Metastasis.
Explanation
The correct answer is "Tumor, Node, Metastasis." The TNM system is used for staging and grading neoplasms, which refers to the extent and spread of cancer in the body. "Tumor" refers to the size and invasiveness of the primary tumor, "Node" refers to the involvement of nearby lymph nodes, and "Metastasis" refers to the presence of cancer cells in distant organs or tissues. This system helps in determining the prognosis and guiding treatment decisions for cancer patients.
46.
The nurse providing care for a patient with suspected cancer recalls that the only diagnostic procedure that is definitive for a diagnosis of cancer is:
Correct Answer
B. Biopsy
Explanation
Only a biopsy is a definitive means of diagnosing cancer because it actually identifies the pathological cells.
47.
Which precaution is most important for the nurse to teach a client reciving radiation therapy for head and neck cancer?
Correct Answer
C. See your dentist twice yearly for the rest of your life.
Explanation
Radiation therapy that is directed in or around the oral cavity has a variety of actions that increase the risk for dental cavities and tooth decay. The salivary glands are affected, which changes the composition of the person's saliva and often causes "dry mouth."
48.
The nurse reviews the chart of the client admitted with a diagnosis of glioblastoma with a T1NXM0 classification. Which explanation does the nurse offer when the client asks what the terminology means?
Correct Answer
B. "The brain tumor measures about 1 to 2 cm and shows no regional lympH nodes and no distant metastsis.
Explanation
T1 means that the tumor is increasing in size to about 2 cm, and that no regional lymph nodes are present in the brain. M0 means no distant metastasis has occurred.
49.
A nurse is going to visit a client who needs assistance with personal hygiene and feeding. Which of the following suggestions should be made to the family?
Correct Answer
A. I'll teach you how to care for your family member to keep him comfortable or, if you can afford it, you can employ an aide."
Explanation
The only thing the RN can do id the care needed is maintenance and assistance with ADLs is suggest a HHA if the family can afford it, or teach the family how to help the client.
50.
The client tells the nurse, "Every time I come in the hospital you hand me one of these advanced directives (AD) why should I fill one of these out?" Which statement by the nurse is most appropriate?
Correct Answer
B. An AD lets you participate in decisions about your health care."
Explanation
An AD lets you participate in decisions about your health care. This statement is the most appropriate response because it accurately explains the purpose of an advanced directive. It emphasizes the client's autonomy and their ability to have a say in their own healthcare decisions. It also highlights the importance of the client's involvement in their own care planning process.