NCLEX-RN
NCLEX RN Exam Preview Answers
1. During an examination, a nurse notices a draining ulceration on a patient's lower leg. What is the most appropriate action in this situation?
- A. Wash hands and then contact the physician.
- B. Continue to examine the ulceration and then wash hands.
- C. Wash hands, put on gloves, and continue with the examination of the ulceration.
- D. Wash hands, proceed with the rest of the physical examination, and perform the examination of the leg ulceration last.
Correct answer: C
Rationale: In this scenario, the most appropriate action is to wash hands, put on gloves, and then continue examining the ulceration. Wearing gloves is crucial when there is a possibility of contact with body fluids, as in the case of a draining ulceration. Contacting the physician is not necessary at this point; the immediate focus should be on proper infection control by washing hands and wearing gloves. Changing the order of the examination is not recommended as it is important to follow a systematic approach to avoid missing any crucial assessments.
2. A patient has come to the office for a blood draw. The patient starts to sweat and is very anxious. Which of the following would be the BEST way to proceed?
- A. Do not perform the procedure. Notify the physician of the reason why.
- B. Perform the procedure but pay close attention for signs of potential syncope.
- C. Allow the patient to reschedule for a time when he isn't as anxious.
- D. Have the physician draw the blood.
Correct answer: B
Rationale: In the scenario where a patient is sweating and anxious, it is important to assess for signs of potential syncope (fainting) while proceeding with the blood draw. If the patient does not exhibit signs of fainting, the phlebotomy procedure can be performed safely. Postponing the procedure may not address the patient's anxiety and inconvenience them. Having the physician draw the blood is not necessary if the phlebotomist can handle the situation effectively.
3. A client is preparing to administer an enema to a 64-year-old client. Which of the following actions of the nurse is most appropriate?
- A. Assist the client to lie in the semi-Fowler position
- B. Apply lubricating jelly to the tip of the catheter before insertion
- C. Instill a total of 30cc of fluid into the client's rectum
- D. Ask the client to hold the solution in for 30 seconds
Correct answer: B
Rationale: When administering an enema to a client, the nurse should place the client in the Sims' position for easy access. The correct action is to apply lubricating jelly to the tip of the catheter before insertion to facilitate a smoother procedure. It is essential to instill a maximum of 750 to 1000 cc of fluid for an adult client, not just 30cc. Following administration, the nurse should ask the client to hold the solution for at least 5 minutes to allow for the desired effect of the enema. Therefore, choice B is the most appropriate action, as choices A, C, and D are incorrect due to inaccuracies in positioning, enema volume, and retention time.
4. After instructing the client on crutch walking technique, the nurse should evaluate the client's understanding by using which of the following methods?
- A. Return demonstration
- B. Explanation
- C. Achievement of 90 on written test
- D. Have the client explain the procedure to the family
Correct answer: A
Rationale: After teaching the client on crutch walking technique, assessing the client's understanding is crucial. The most effective method to evaluate the client's comprehension of a hands-on skill like crutch walking technique is through a return demonstration. This allows the nurse to observe the client performing the technique, ensuring they have grasped the instructions correctly and can execute the skill safely. While providing an explanation can help clarify doubts, it may not confirm the client's ability to perform the skill. Achieving a high score on a written test assesses cognitive understanding but not necessarily the practical application of the skill. Having the client explain the procedure to the family does not directly assess their ability to perform the skill themselves; it tests their ability to communicate the information to others.
5. A client has applied a cold pack to their arm to help decrease swelling and inflammation after an injury. Which of the following signs indicates that the cold pack should be removed?
- A. The skin on the arm appears mottled
- B. The cold pack has been in place for 10 minutes
- C. The client complains of feeling nauseated
- D. The capillary refill in the area distal to the arm is 2 seconds
Correct answer: A
Rationale: When using a cold pack for therapeutic purposes, it is essential to monitor the site to prevent tissue damage. Prolonged use of cold therapy can lead to pale, mottled skin with a bluish appearance. This change in skin color indicates poor circulation, and the cold pack should be removed immediately to prevent tissue injury. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because the duration of cold pack application, client complaints of nausea, and capillary refill time do not specifically indicate the need for the cold pack to be removed due to potential tissue damage.
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