the nurse is performing a general survey of a patient which finding is considered normal

NCLEX-RN

NCLEX RN Predictor Exam

1. During a general survey of a patient, which finding is considered normal?

A. Body mass index (BMI) of 20.
B. When standing, the patient's base is narrow.
C. The patient appears older than their stated age.
D. Arm span (fingertip to fingertip) is greater than the height.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: A body mass index (BMI) of 20 is considered normal as the range for a normal BMI is between 19-24. When standing, a patient's base should be wide for stability and proper weight distribution. An older appearance than the stated age may indicate a history of chronic illness or chronic alcoholism. In a general survey, the patient's arm span (fingertip to fingertip) should approximately equal the patient's height. An arm span greater than the height may suggest Marfan syndrome. Therefore, the correct choice is a normal BMI of 20, which falls within the healthy range. Choices B, C, and D all describe abnormal findings that may indicate underlying health conditions or syndromes.

2. The healthcare provider is preparing to perform a physical assessment. Which statement is true about the inspection phase of the physical assessment?

A. Usually yields little information
B. Takes time and reveals a surprising amount of information
C. May be somewhat uncomfortable for the expert practitioner
D. Requires a thorough examination of the patient's body before proceeding with palpation

Correct answer: B

Rationale: During the inspection phase of a physical assessment, it is essential to take time as it can reveal a significant amount of information. Initially, it may feel uncomfortable for the examiner to focus solely on observing the patient without immediate action. Rushing through inspection is not recommended as it can lead to missing important cues. Train yourself to be thorough during inspection by observing carefully and taking the time needed to gather essential data. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because inspection typically provides valuable information, may feel uncomfortable at first but is necessary for a comprehensive assessment, and does not involve a quick glance but requires a focused and detailed observation.

3. 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.

4. Which of the following is an example of emotional abuse?

A. A slap to the person's hand
B. Threatening the person
C. Ignoring and isolating a person
D. Leaving a patient soiled for hours

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Emotional abuse involves behaviors that harm an individual's self-worth and emotional well-being. Threatening someone instills fear and causes psychological distress, making it a clear example of emotional abuse. Choices A, C, and D involve physical abuse, neglect, and neglect of care, respectively, rather than emotional abuse. A slap to the person's hand constitutes physical abuse, ignoring and isolating a person is neglectful behavior, and leaving a patient soiled for hours falls under neglect of care.

5. Surgical asepsis is being performed when:

A. wiping down exam tables with bleach
B. sterilizing instruments
C. changing table paper
D. wearing gloves when performing injections

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Surgical asepsis refers to the process of maintaining a sterile environment to prevent the introduction of pathogens to a patient's body. Sterilizing instruments is a crucial aspect of surgical asepsis as it ensures that the instruments used during procedures are free from microorganisms that could cause infections. Wiping down exam tables with bleach may help in cleaning and disinfecting surfaces but does not pertain directly to maintaining a sterile field. Changing table paper is important for cleanliness and infection control but is not specifically related to surgical asepsis. Wearing gloves when performing injections is important for standard precautions and preventing the spread of infection but does not encompass the concept of surgical asepsis, which focuses on maintaining a sterile field during invasive procedures.