NCLEX-RN
NCLEX RN Prioritization Questions
1. When auscultating the patient's lungs during a shift assessment on a patient admitted in the early phase of heart failure, which finding would the nurse most likely hear?
- A. Continuous rumbling, snoring, or rattling sounds mainly on expiration
- B. Continuous high-pitched musical sounds on inspiration and expiration
- C. Discontinuous, high-pitched sounds of short duration heard on inspiration
- D. A series of long-duration, discontinuous, low-pitched sounds during inspiration
Correct answer: C
Rationale: In the early phase of heart failure, fine crackles are likely to be heard upon auscultation of the lungs. Fine crackles are characterized as discontinuous, high-pitched sounds of short duration heard on inspiration. Rhonchi are continuous rumbling, snoring, or rattling sounds mainly on expiration, which are often associated with airway secretions. Coarse crackles are a series of long-duration, discontinuous, low-pitched sounds during inspiration, typically indicating fluid in the alveoli. Wheezes are continuous high-pitched musical sounds on inspiration and expiration, commonly heard in conditions like asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Therefore, the correct choice is C, as it describes the expected lung sounds in a patient with early heart failure.
2. A child is prescribed baclofen (Lioresal) via intrathecal pump to treat severe muscle spasms related to cerebral palsy. What teaching does the nurse provide the child and parents?
- A. Do not let this prescription run out.
- B. The medication may cause gingival hyperplasia.
- C. Periodic serum drug levels are needed.
- D. Watch for excessive facial hair growth.
Correct answer: A
Rationale: The correct teaching for the child and parents when a child is prescribed baclofen via an intrathecal pump is to not let the prescription run out. Abrupt discontinuation of intrathecal baclofen can lead to severe effects like high fever, altered mental status, and rebound spasticity and muscle rigidity. It is crucial for the parents to ensure there is always an adequate supply of this medication to prevent these adverse effects. Choices B and D are incorrect because gingival hyperplasia and hirsutism are side effects associated with phenytoin (Dilantin), not baclofen. Choice C is incorrect as serum drug levels are not typically monitored for intrathecal medications.
3. A nurse and client are discussing the client's progress toward understanding his behavior under stress. This is typical of which phase in the therapeutic relationship?
- A. Pre-interaction
- B. Orientation
- C. Working
- D. Termination
Correct answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is the working phase. During this phase, the nurse and client actively work together to explore alternative behaviors and techniques. Discussions in this phase focus on understanding the underlying meaning behind the behavior and implementing strategies for change. Pre-interaction (choice A) refers to the phase before the nurse and client first meet and establish a relationship. The orientation phase (choice B) involves introductions, setting goals, and establishing boundaries. Termination (choice D) is the phase where the therapeutic relationship concludes, and closure is achieved.
4. A child weighing 30 kg arrives at the clinic with diffuse itching as the result of an allergic reaction to an insect bite. Diphenhydramine (Benadryl) 25 mg 3 times a day is prescribed. The correct pediatric dose is 5 mg/kg/day. Which of the following best describes the prescribed drug dose?
- A. It is the correct dose
- B. The dose is too low
- C. The dose is too high
- D. The dose should be increased or decreased, depending on the symptoms
Correct answer: B
Rationale: The correct pediatric dose of diphenhydramine is 5 mg/kg/day. This child weighs 30 kg, so the calculated dose would be 5 mg/kg x 30 kg = 150 mg/day. Since the prescription is for 25 mg 3 times a day, the total daily dose is 25 mg x 3 = 75 mg/day, which is lower than the calculated dose of 150 mg/day. Therefore, the prescribed dose of 25 mg 3 times a day is too low for this child. The dose should be adjusted to meet the correct dosage of 150 mg/day, which would be 50 mg 3 times a day. It is important not to titrate the dosage based on symptoms without consulting a physician, as this can lead to inappropriate medication administration.
5. A patient diagnosed with alopecia would be described as having:
- A. body lice
- B. lack of ear lobes
- C. Indigestion
- D. hair loss
Correct answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is 'hair loss.' Alopecia is a medical term that specifically refers to the condition of hair loss, usually in patches or all over the body. Choice A, 'body lice,' refers to a parasitic infestation and is not related to alopecia. Choice B, 'lack of ear lobes,' is completely unrelated to the term alopecia, which is solely about hair loss. Choice C, 'Indigestion,' has no connection to alopecia as it pertains to digestive issues, not hair loss. Therefore, the correct description for a patient diagnosed with alopecia is 'hair loss.'
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