korotkoff sounds are

NCLEX-RN

NCLEX RN Actual Exam Test Bank

1. What are Korotkoff sounds?

A. Sounds noted during diastole.
B. The result of the vibration of blood against artery walls while blood pressure readings are being taken.
C. Sounds only noted by skilled cardiologists.
D. Distinct sounds which are classified into 6 phases.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Korotkoff sounds are the sounds that occur when blood flows in an artery that has been temporarily compressed during a blood pressure measurement. These sounds result from the vibration of blood against the artery walls as the pressure cuff is released. There are five distinct phases of Korotkoff sounds, which healthcare providers are trained to identify during blood pressure assessment. The correct answer, choice B, accurately describes the nature of Korotkoff sounds and how they are generated. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because Korotkoff sounds are not specific to diastole, not limited to skilled cardiologists, and categorized into five phases, not six.

2. When assessing the force or strength of a pulse, what would the nurse recall about the pulse?

A. Is a reflection of the heart's stroke volume
B. Typically recorded on a 0- to 3-point scale
C. Demonstrates elasticity of the blood vessel wall
D. Reflects the blood volume in the arteries during diastole

Correct answer: A

Rationale: When assessing the force or strength of a pulse, the nurse should recall that it is a reflection of the heart's stroke volume. The heart pumps an amount of blood (the stroke volume) into the aorta, causing arterial walls to flare and generate a pressure wave felt as the pulse in the periphery. The force of the pulse is typically recorded on a 0- to 3-point scale, not a 0- to 2-point scale. The force of the pulse does not demonstrate the elasticity of blood vessel walls or reflect the blood volume in the arteries during diastole. Therefore, choices B, C, and D are incorrect.

3. What is the primary purpose of a patient care meeting or conference?

A. the patient's ability to pay for the costs of their care
B. how the healthcare team can best meet the patient's needs
C. the patient's physical status and condition
D. the patient's psychosocial status and condition

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The primary purpose of a patient care meeting or conference is to determine how the healthcare team can best meet the patient's needs. These meetings involve discussions among healthcare professionals to tailor the care plan to the specific needs and preferences of the patient. Option A is incorrect because financial discussions are generally not the primary focus of patient care meetings. Option C is incorrect as the patient's physical status is usually already known and is not the primary purpose of the meeting. Option D is incorrect as psychosocial aspects, while important, are not the sole focus of the meeting, which is primarily about addressing the patient's overall needs and preferences.

4. Which of the following actions can help prevent a fire in the area where a healthcare professional works?

A. Using an adaptor when plugging in client equipment
B. Marking equipment that is not working properly and using it carefully until it can be inspected by maintenance
C. Notifying visitors or posting signs that indicate oxygen is in use in certain areas
D. Keeping extra equipment stored in one area with other supplies and materials

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct action to help prevent a fire in a healthcare setting is to notify visitors or post signs indicating that oxygen is in use in certain areas. Oxygen is a combustible material, and awareness of its presence is crucial to prevent fire hazards. By informing all individuals in the facility about the use of oxygen through clear signs or notifications, the risk of improper use and potential fire accidents can be minimized. Choice A is incorrect because using an adaptor when plugging in client equipment is not directly related to fire prevention. Choice B is also incorrect as marking faulty equipment and using it until inspection does not directly address fire prevention. Choice D is not a recommended action for fire prevention; storing extra equipment with supplies does not address the specific fire risk associated with oxygen use.

5. When providing mouth care to a patient in a coma, what should you do to provide good and safe mouth care?

A. keep the head of the bed up to prevent aspiration
B. brush the teeth and rinse the mouth with a cup of water
C. use a special foam swab to brush only the tongue
D. use a special foam swab to brush the tongue and teeth

Correct answer: D

Rationale: When providing mouth care to a patient in a coma, it is crucial to use a special foam swab to brush the tongue and teeth. This method helps maintain good oral hygiene for comatose patients. Special foam swabs are designed to effectively clean all areas of the mouth, including the cheeks and tongue, ensuring thorough care. Using water for mouth care in comatose patients can lead to aspiration, so it is important to avoid this practice. Keeping the head of the bed up alone does not prevent aspiration during mouth care for comatose patients, making choice A incorrect. Merely brushing the tongue (choice C) or using a foam swab only on the tongue (choice B) may not provide the comprehensive mouth care necessary for patients in a coma.