NCLEX-RN
NCLEX RN Prioritization Questions
1. A client presents with symptoms of a sore throat, swollen lymph nodes in the neck, fever, chills, and extreme fatigue. Based on these symptoms, which of the following illnesses could the nurse consider for this client?
- A. Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA)
- B. Hepatitis B
- C. Infectious mononucleosis
- D. Norovirus infection
Correct answer: C
Rationale: Infectious mononucleosis is a viral disease caused by the Epstein-Barr virus. The symptoms of sore throat, fever, chills, swollen lymph nodes, and extreme fatigue are characteristic of infectious mononucleosis. The diagnosis is confirmed through the client's history and blood tests for the Epstein-Barr virus. Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) presents with localized skin infections, not the systemic symptoms described. Hepatitis B typically presents with jaundice, abdominal pain, and liver inflammation, not the symptoms described. Norovirus infection commonly causes gastrointestinal symptoms like vomiting and diarrhea, not the symptoms presented by the client.
2. Which of the following is TRUE about shock?
- A. A patient with severe shock does not always have an abnormally low blood pressure.
- B. Confusion and deteriorating mentation are indicative of hypotensive shock.
- C. Patients with compensated shock may not be able to maintain a normal blood pressure.
- D. A normal blood pressure does not imply that the patient is stable.
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Confusion and deteriorating mentation are indeed indicative of hypotensive shock. It is important to note that a patient with hypotensive shock will likely exhibit deteriorating mental status. Choice A is incorrect because a patient in severe shock may not always have an abnormally low blood pressure, making it an unreliable indicator of shock severity. Choice C is incorrect because patients with compensated shock may present with normal blood pressure but still have inadequate tissue perfusion. Choice D is incorrect because a normal blood pressure does not guarantee the patient's stability, especially in cases of shock where tissue perfusion may be compromised despite normal blood pressure readings.
3. A patient with pneumonia has a fever of 101.4 F (38.6 C), a nonproductive cough, and an oxygen saturation of 88%. The patient complains of weakness, fatigue, and needs assistance to get out of bed. Which nursing diagnosis should the nurse assign as the highest priority?
- A. Hyperthermia related to infectious illness
- B. Impaired transfer ability related to weakness
- C. Ineffective airway clearance related to thick secretions
- D. Impaired gas exchange related to respiratory congestion
Correct answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is 'Impaired gas exchange related to respiratory congestion.' While all the nursing diagnoses are relevant to the patient's condition, the priority should be given to impaired gas exchange due to the patient's low oxygen saturation level of 88%. This indicates a significant risk of hypoxia for all body tissues unless the gas exchange is improved. Addressing impaired gas exchange is crucial to ensure adequate oxygenation and prevent further complications. Hyperthermia, impaired transfer ability, and ineffective airway clearance are important concerns but addressing gas exchange takes precedence in this scenario.
4. In educating clients on ways to manage pain, which topic can be appropriately delegated to an LPN/LVN who will continue under supervision?
- A. Acupuncture
- B. Guided Imagery
- C. Alternating Rest/Activity
- D. Over-the-counter medications
Correct answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is 'Alternating Rest/Activity.' This topic falls within the nursing scope of practice and is typically covered in the training and education of all nurses, including LPN/LVNs. Educating clients on alternating rest and activity is safe, straightforward, and a standard non-pharmacological pain management strategy. Acupuncture (Choice A) and Guided Imagery (Choice B) involve specific skills and techniques that are typically outside the scope of practice for LPN/LVNs. Over-the-counter medications (Choice D) may require additional assessment, monitoring, and considerations that are beyond the usual delegation for LPN/LVNs.
5. The parents of a child with a hernia are instructed by the nurse on measures to reduce the hernia. Which statement indicates the parents understand the care for their child?
- A. We will encourage our child to cough every few hours on a daily basis.
- B. We will make sure that our child participates in physical activity every day.
- C. We will provide comfort measures to reduce any crying periods by our child.
- D. We will be sure to give our child a Fleet enema every day to prevent constipation.
Correct answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is providing comfort measures to reduce any crying periods by the child. This can include offering a warm bath, avoiding upright positioning, and using other comfort measures to reduce crying, which can help reduce a hernia. Encouraging coughing or physical activity can increase strain on the hernia. Giving a Fleet enema daily for constipation is not recommended as it can also increase strain on the hernia.
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