an occupational health nurse works at a manufacturing plant where there is potential exposure to inhaled dust which action if recommended by the nurs

NCLEX-RN

Exam Cram NCLEX RN Practice Questions

1. An occupational health nurse works at a manufacturing plant where there is potential exposure to inhaled dust. Which action, if recommended by the nurse, will be most helpful in reducing the incidence of lung disease?

A. Treat workers with pulmonary fibrosis.
B. Teach about symptoms of lung disease.
C. Require the use of protective equipment.
D. Monitor workers for coughing and wheezing.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Prevention of lung disease requires the use of appropriate protective equipment such as masks to reduce exposure to inhaled dust, which is a significant risk factor for lung disease. Teaching about symptoms of lung disease, treating workers with pulmonary fibrosis, and monitoring for coughing and wheezing are important actions for early recognition and treatment of lung disease. However, the most effective strategy to prevent lung damage in this scenario is to require the use of protective equipment to minimize exposure to harmful substances.

2. A client must use a non-rebreathing oxygen mask. Which of the following statements is true regarding this type of mask?

A. A non-rebreather can provide an FiO2 of 40%.
B. A client should breathe through his or her mouth when using a non-rebreather.
C. A non-rebreather offers a reservoir from which the client inhales.
D. The mask of a non-rebreather should be changed every 3 hours.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: A non-rebreather mask is used for supplemental oxygen delivery for clients experiencing breathing difficulties. The non-rebreather mask includes a one-way valve that allows exhaled air to escape, preventing the rebreathing of carbon dioxide. The client inhales oxygenated air from a reservoir bag attached to the mask, providing high-concentration oxygen therapy. A non-rebreather mask can deliver FiO2 levels of up to 90%, making it an effective intervention for clients requiring high oxygen concentrations. Therefore, the statement that 'A non-rebreather can provide an FiO2 of 40%' is correct. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because clients should breathe through their nose and mouth, the mask offers a reservoir for inhaling oxygen, and the mask should be assessed and potentially replaced if soiled or damaged, not routinely changed every 3 hours.

3. Richard is a 72-year-old with stage 4 lung cancer who has been admitted to the hospital for pneumonia. He is alert and oriented and states he would like to sign a do not resuscitate (DNR) order. His wife enters the room after he has signed it and is very upset that he has made this decision without discussing it with her. She wants to know what she can do to get the DNR reversed. What should your first response be?

A. Contact the unit manager to talk with her
B. Contact the hospital's attorney to discuss with her
C. Try to talk Richard out of his decision
D. Offer caring support for both parties

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct response in this situation is to offer caring support for both parties. Richard, being alert and oriented, has the right to make his own decisions, including signing a do not resuscitate (DNR) order. It is important to respect his autonomy while also acknowledging his wife's feelings. By offering caring support, the nurse can facilitate a discussion between Richard and his wife, helping them navigate their emotions and decisions. Contacting the unit manager or hospital's attorney would not be appropriate as the initial response. These actions may escalate the situation and are not focused on addressing the emotional needs of the couple. Trying to talk Richard out of his decision would disregard his autonomy and right to make choices about his own care, which goes against ethical principles of patient autonomy and informed decision-making.

4. The chain of infection includes the ________________.

A. germ, agent, reservoir, exit portal, mode of transmission, entry port, and susceptible host
B. active natural, active artificial, passive natural, and passive artificial
C. opportunism, weakness, immunity, and colonization
D. intrinsic, extrinsic, internal, and external transmission

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The chain, or cycle, of infection includes the germ (microorganism), agent, reservoir, exit portal, mode of transmission, entry port, and susceptible host. This sequence describes how infections are passed from one person to another. Choice B is incorrect because it refers to types of immunity, not components of the chain of infection. Choice C is also incorrect as it lists terms unrelated to the chain of infection. Choice D is incorrect as it describes transmission types, not components of the chain of infection. Understanding the chain of infection is crucial in preventing the spread of infections by breaking one or more links in the chain, such as interrupting the mode of transmission through proper hand hygiene.

5. Which risk factor places patients and residents at the greatest risk for falls?

A. Old age
B. Middle age
C. Pneumonia
D. COPD

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Old age is a significant risk factor for falls as elderly individuals are more prone to falls due to factors like decreased balance, muscle strength, and vision. Middle age is less associated with falls compared to old age. Pneumonia and COPD are medical conditions that are not direct risk factors for falls, unlike aging which significantly increases the risk of falls.