NCLEX-RN
NCLEX RN Actual Exam Test Bank
1. A patient is in the office for a cyst removal and is very anxious about the procedure. Which of the following descriptions of his respirations would be expected?
- A. Bradypnea
- B. Orthopnea
- C. Tachypnea
- D. Dyspnea
Correct answer: C
Rationale: Tachypnea is defined as a rapid, quick, and shallow respiration rate. When a patient is anxious, they may hyperventilate, leading to tachypnea. Bradypnea (Choice A) is slow breathing, which is not expected in an anxious patient. Orthopnea (Choice B) is difficulty breathing while lying down and is not directly related to anxiety. Dyspnea (Choice D) is shortness of breath, which may not be the primary respiratory pattern seen in an anxious patient undergoing a procedure. Therefore, the correct choice is tachypnea as it aligns with the expected respiratory response to anxiety.
2. How does the procedure for taking a pulse rate on an infant differ from an adult?
- A. Pulse rates are taken on infants using a different method.
- B. The apical pulse method is used on infants.
- C. Pulse rates on infants are taken with a sphygmomanometer.
- D. Pulse rates on infants are taken apically in the third intercostal space.
Correct answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: The apical pulse method is used on infants. This method involves placing a stethoscope in the fifth intercostal space, mid-clavicular line, and counting the beats for a full minute. It is a preferred method for infants due to their small size and the difficulty in palpating peripheral pulses accurately. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect. Choice A is incorrect as pulse rates are indeed taken on infants, albeit using a different method. Choice C is incorrect as a sphygmomanometer is typically used for measuring blood pressure, not pulse rates. Choice D is incorrect as pulse rates on infants are usually taken apically in the fifth intercostal space, not the third.
3. Which of the following organs would be described as being located retroperitoneally?
- A. Kidneys
- B. Thymus
- C. Small Intestines
- D. Spleen
Correct answer: A
Rationale: The term 'retroperitoneal' refers to organs positioned behind the peritoneum. The kidneys are retroperitoneal organs, located outside the peritoneal cavity, against the posterior abdominal wall. This positioning provides them with additional protection from external forces due to the surrounding structures. The thymus, small intestines, and spleen are not retroperitoneal organs. The thymus is located in the mediastinum, the small intestines are intraperitoneal, and the spleen is intraperitoneal and located in the left upper quadrant of the abdomen.
4. What does the medical term 'basophilia' refer to?
- A. An attachment of the epithelial cells of the skin to a basement membrane
- B. An overabundance of a particular white blood cell in the peripheral blood
- C. An underrepresentation of basophils on a blood smear
- D. None of the above
Correct answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is 'An overabundance of a particular white blood cell in the peripheral blood.' Basophilia specifically indicates an increased number of basophils in the peripheral blood. It can be observed in conditions like leukemia and certain allergic reactions. Choice A is incorrect as it describes something unrelated to basophilia. Choice C is incorrect as it suggests a decrease in basophils, which is opposite to the actual meaning of basophilia. Choice D is also incorrect as basophilia does have a defined medical significance.
5. Which of the following scenarios provides an example of a healthcare professional overcoming a barrier to communication?
- A. A healthcare professional uses a visual aid to explain how to conduct a fingerstick glucose test to a patient with visual impairment.
- B. A healthcare professional writes down instructions for a patient who is hearing impaired.
- C. A healthcare professional raises their voice when speaking to a patient who does not speak English.
- D. A healthcare professional uses medical jargon while conversing with a minor.
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Overcoming barriers to communication in healthcare involves utilizing methods of communication that are accessible and understandable to the recipient. In the scenario provided, writing down instructions for a patient who is hearing impaired is an effective way to ensure clear communication and overcome the obstacle of hearing impairment. This method allows the patient to visually comprehend the information provided. Choice A is incorrect because using a visual aid for a visually impaired patient, not a hearing-impaired patient, would be more appropriate. Choice C is incorrect as raising one's voice does not address the language barrier effectively and may not enhance understanding. Choice D is incorrect as using complex medical terms with a minor may lead to confusion and hinder effective communication.
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