preload refers to

NCLEX-RN

NCLEX RN Exam Prep

1. What does preload refer to?

A. The volume of blood entering the left side of the heart
B. The volume of blood entering the right side of the heart
C. The pressure in the venous system that the heart must overcome to pump the blood
D. The pressure in the arterial system that the heart must overcome to pump the blood

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Preload refers to the volume of blood that enters the right side of the heart. This volume stretches the fibers in the heart before contraction. Preload is an essential factor in determining the force of ventricular contraction. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect. Choice A is incorrect because preload is specifically related to the volume of blood entering the right side of the heart. Choices C and D are incorrect as they refer to afterload, which is the pressure that the heart must overcome to pump blood out of the ventricles into the systemic or pulmonary circulation.

2. A client has become combative and is attempting to pull out his IV and take off his surgical dressings. The nurse receives an order to apply wrist restraints. Which action of the nurse signifies that restraints are being used safely?

A. The nurse ties the restraints in a square knot to prevent the client from untying them
B. The restraints are attached to a movable portion of the bed
C. The padded side of the restraint is applied next to the skin of the wrist
D. The nurse assesses the client's distal circulation every 24 hours

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Restraint use must prioritize the safety of the client. When applying restraints around the wrists, the padded side should be placed against the skin to help prevent skin breakdown. Additionally, restraints should be secured in quick-release knots to ensure they can be removed rapidly in case of an emergency. Choice A is incorrect as restraints should not be tied in a way that could prevent quick removal. Choice B is incorrect because restraints should not be attached to a movable part of the bed to avoid unintentional movement. Choice D is incorrect as assessing distal circulation is important but is not directly related to the safe application of restraints.

3. The Atlas and the Axis are:

A. found in the vertebrae.
B. described as being cervical.
C. the first two bones that form the column for the spine on the superior aspect.
D. All of the above.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The Atlas and the Axis are the first two cervical vertebrae, designated as C1 and C2. The Atlas (C1) supports the skull, while the Axis (C2) allows for rotation of the skull. Therefore, all the statements in choices A, B, and C are correct, making 'All of the above' the correct answer. Choice A is correct as the Atlas and Axis are indeed found in the vertebrae. Choice B is correct as they are the first two cervical vertebrae. Choice C is correct as these bones form the superior aspect of the spine.

4. A client is being assisted to lie in the Sims' position. In what position does the nurse arrange the client?

A. The client lies on his side with the upper leg flexed
B. The client lies on his back with his head lower than his feet
C. The client lies on his abdomen with a pillow supporting his head
D. The client is sitting up at a 90-degree angle

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The Sims' position is a side-lying position used for examinations or comfort. In the Sims' position, the client lies on their side with the upper leg flexed. The abdomen is slightly downward, and the lower arm is positioned behind the body. A pillow can be used to support the leg. Choice B is incorrect as it describes a position with the client lying on their back with the head lower than the feet. Choice C is incorrect as it describes a prone position, not the Sims' position. Choice D is incorrect as it describes a sitting position, not the Sims' position.

5. The nursing diagnosis is Risk for impaired skin integrity related to immobility and pressure secondary to pain and presence of a cast. Which of the following desired outcomes should the nurse include in the care plan?

A. Client will be able to turn self by day 3
B. Skin will remain intact and without redness during hospital stay
C. Client will state pain relieved within 30 minutes after medication
D. Pressure will be prevented by repositioning client every 2 hours

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct desired outcome for a nursing diagnosis of 'Risk for impaired skin integrity' is to ensure that the skin remains intact and without redness during the hospital stay. This outcome directly addresses the risk identified in the diagnosis. Option A focuses on addressing immobility, which is not the priority for this diagnosis. Option C deals with pain relief, which is a separate concern. Option D is an intervention involving pressure prevention through repositioning, rather than an outcome related to skin integrity.