NCLEX-RN
NCLEX RN Exam Preview Answers
1. An adult patient is at the clinic for a physical examination. The patient states that they are feeling 'very anxious' about the physical examination. What steps can the nurse take to make the patient more comfortable?
- A. Appear unhurried and confident when examining the patient.
- B. Leave the room when the patient undresses unless they need assistance.
- C. Ask the patient to change into an examining gown and to leave their undergarments on.
- D. Measure vital signs at the beginning of the examination to gradually accustom the patient.
Correct answer: A
Rationale: To help alleviate the patient's anxiety, the nurse should appear unhurried and confident during the examination. This can make the patient feel more at ease and reassured. It is important for the nurse to respect the patient's privacy by leaving the room while the patient changes unless assistance is needed. The patient should be instructed to change into an examining gown while leaving their undergarments on, providing a sense of comfort and familiarity. Additionally, measuring vital signs at the beginning of the examination can help gradually acclimate the patient to the process, making it less overwhelming. Therefore, the correct answer is to appear unhurried and confident when examining the patient. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because they do not directly address the patient's anxiety or provide comfort in the same way as the correct answer.
2. When a patient refuses to believe a terminal diagnosis, they are exhibiting:
- A. Regression
- B. Mourning
- C. Denial
- D. Rationalization
Correct answer: C
Rationale: Denial is a defense mechanism where a patient rejects a reality that is too painful or difficult to accept. In the context of a terminal diagnosis, the patient may refuse to believe it in order to avoid facing the harsh truth. Regression (choice A) involves reverting to earlier, more childlike behaviors and is not applicable in this scenario. Mourning (choice B) is the process of grieving a loss, which typically occurs after acceptance of the diagnosis. Rationalization (choice D) is creating logical explanations to justify unacceptable behaviors, which is not the case when a patient denies a terminal diagnosis.
3. When measuring a patient's body temperature, what factor should be considered that can influence the temperature?
- A. Constipation
- B. Diurnal cycle
- C. Nocturnal cycle
- D. Patient's emotional state
Correct answer: B
Rationale: When measuring body temperature, it is essential to consider factors that can influence it. The diurnal cycle, which refers to the body's natural temperature variations throughout a 24-hour period, can impact body temperature readings. Factors like exercise, age, and environment can also affect body temperature. Constipation does not directly influence body temperature. The 'nocturnal cycle' is not a recognized term in relation to body temperature. While a patient's emotional state can affect vital signs, it is not a primary factor in influencing body temperature measurements.
4. The client reports nausea and constipation. Which of the following would be the priority nursing action?
- A. Collect a stool sample
- B. Complete an abdominal assessment
- C. Administer an anti-nausea medication
- D. Notify the physician
Correct answer: B
Rationale: The priority nursing action when a client reports symptoms like nausea and constipation is to complete an abdominal assessment. Assessment is crucial as it involves the systematic collection of data to understand the client's condition. By assessing the abdomen, the nurse can gather essential information to make a nursing diagnosis and develop a care plan. Collecting a stool sample (Choice A) may be necessary but comes after the assessment to confirm findings. Administering an anti-nausea medication (Choice C) addresses symptoms but does not address the underlying cause without a thorough assessment. Notifying the physician (Choice D) should come after the assessment to provide a complete picture of the client's condition.
5. The nurse is comparing the concepts of religion and spirituality. Which statement describes an appropriate component of one's spirituality?
- A. Belief in and worship of God or gods
- B. Being closely tied to one's ethnic background
- C. Attendance at a specific church or place of worship
- D. A connection with something larger than oneself and belief in transcendence
Correct answer: D
Rationale: Spirituality refers to a connection with something larger than oneself and a belief in transcendence. The other responses do not apply to spirituality. Choice A, 'Belief in and worship of God or gods,' and choice C, 'Attendance at a specific church or place of worship,' are more aligned with religious practices. Choice B, 'Being closely tied to one's ethnic background,' is not a defining aspect of spirituality or religion as it pertains more to cultural identity rather than spiritual beliefs.
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