NCLEX-RN
Saunders NCLEX RN Practice Questions
1. A client in the emergency room enters the care area to start an IV. He finds a man sitting on the table, hunched over, and attempting to take deep breaths. He states, 'my chest hurts so much!' His wife is sitting on a chair in the corner, crying. Which of the following is the first action of the client?
- A. Bring the IV kit and quickly start an IV
- B. Assess his breathing and provide oxygen, if necessary
- C. Administer medication to control chest pain
- D. Talk with his wife and find out why she is crying
Correct answer: B
Rationale: In the above scenario, the first action of the nurse should be to assess the client's airway and breathing. It is crucial to address respiratory status first, as the client appears to be experiencing difficulty breathing. Providing oxygen if necessary can help support oxygenation and alleviate potential respiratory distress. Administering medication for chest pain or starting an IV can come after ensuring adequate oxygenation. Talking with the client's wife, though important for emotional support, is not the priority when the client's respiratory status needs to be assessed and managed promptly.
2. What might be signaled when a client tells the nurse to 'pray for me' and entrusts her wedding ring to the nurse?
- A. Anxiety
- B. Suicidal ideation
- C. Major depression
- D. Hopelessness
Correct answer: B
Rationale: The client entrusting the wedding ring and asking the nurse to pray for them can be indicative of suicidal ideation. This behavior suggests a deep level of distress and hopelessness, potentially leading to suicidal thoughts or actions. While anxiety is a common emotion, the act of entrusting personal items and making requests like praying for them go beyond typical anxiety symptoms. Major depression can be associated with suicidal ideation, but the specific actions described in this scenario point more towards suicidal thoughts. Hopelessness, while related to suicidal ideation, is a broader concept that does not capture the specific cues given by the client in this scenario, making it a less accurate choice.
3. Which of the following situations warrants a measurement for orthostatic hypotension?
- A. A 36-year-old male with a spinal injury
- B. An 86-year-old female with significantly altered mental status
- C. A 58-year-old female with near-syncope
- D. A 41-year-old male with acute deep vein thrombosis
Correct answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is a 58-year-old female with near-syncope. Orthostatic hypotension is a drop in blood pressure of greater than 20 mmHg systolic when moving from a sitting or lying position to standing. Patients at higher risk include those with syncope or near-syncope, symptomatic hypovolemia, and those prone to falls. The other choices are less likely to present with orthostatic hypotension. A spinal injury, altered mental status, and acute deep vein thrombosis are not directly associated with the immediate need for orthostatic hypotension measurement.
4. Which of the following clients have barriers to accessing healthcare?
- A. A 36-year-old client who must use a wheelchair for mobility
- B. A 44-year-old client who is visiting the United States on a visa from India
- C. An 81-year-old client who is unable to drive
- D. All of the above
Correct answer: D
Rationale: All of the provided clients have barriers to accessing healthcare. Clients with physical limitations, such as the 36-year-old client using a wheelchair, may face challenges in mobility and accessing healthcare facilities. The 44-year-old client from India visiting the United States on a visa may encounter barriers related to language, cultural differences, or insurance coverage. The 81-year-old client who is unable to drive may struggle with transportation to healthcare appointments. Therefore, all three clients face different barriers to accessing healthcare, making 'All of the above' the correct answer.
5. Mr. K is admitted to the orthopedic unit one morning in preparation for a total knee replacement to start in two hours. Which of the following is a priority topic to instruct this client on admission?
- A. The approximate length of the surgery
- B. The type of anticoagulants that will be prescribed
- C. The time of the next meal of solid food
- D. The length of time until the client can return to work
Correct answer: A
Rationale: The priority topic to instruct a client admitted for a total knee replacement surgery should be the approximate length of the surgery. Pre-surgical teaching should focus on preparing the client for the upcoming procedure. Providing information about the duration of the surgery can help manage the client's expectations, reduce anxiety, and ensure they are mentally prepared for the operation. While details about post-operative care, anticoagulants, meals, and return to work are important, they are not the immediate priority during the preoperative phase. These aspects can be addressed at a later stage in the client's care journey.
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