NCLEX-RN
NCLEX RN Exam Preview Answers
1. Which of the following descriptions best describes the function of the thyroid gland?
- A. The thyroid gland converts glucose into glycogen
- B. The thyroid gland secretes cortisol during times of stress
- C. The thyroid gland regulates body metabolism
- D. The thyroid gland affects skin pigmentation
Correct answer: C
Rationale: The thyroid gland is responsible for secreting thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3), which work to regulate the metabolism of the body's cells. The primary function of the thyroid gland is to control the body's metabolic rate, affecting processes such as heart rate, temperature regulation, and energy levels. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because the thyroid gland is not involved in converting glucose into glycogen, secreting cortisol, or affecting skin pigmentation. Instead, the primary role of the thyroid gland is to regulate the metabolism and energy balance in the body.
2. Intermittent fevers are:
- A. fevers which come and go.
- B. fevers which rise and fall but are always considered above the patient's average temperature.
- C. fevers which fluctuate more than three degrees and never return to normal.
- D. None of the above.
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Intermittent fevers are characterized by periods of fever followed by periods of normal body temperature. They alternate between being febrile and afebrile. Continuous fevers show minimal fluctuations over a 24-hour period, while remittent fevers fluctuate significantly but do return to normal body temperature. Choice A is correct as it accurately describes intermittent fevers. Choices B and C are incorrect as they do not fully capture the defining characteristic of intermittent fevers, which involve cyclical episodes of fever and normal temperature. Choice D is incorrect as there is a specific definition for intermittent fevers.
3. When caring for a single client during one shift, it is appropriate for the nurse to reuse only which of the following personal protective equipment?
- A. Goggles
- B. Gown
- C. Surgical mask
- D. Clean gloves
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Goggles may be reused unless they are overly contaminated by material that has splashed in the nurse's face and cannot be effectively rinsed off. Gowns are at high risk for contamination and should be used only once and then discarded or washed. Surgical masks and gloves should never be washed or reused. Goggles provide eye protection from splashes and should be cleaned and disinfected after each use to ensure proper protection.
4. A physician has ordered that a client must be placed in a high Fowler's position. How does the nurse position this client?
- A. The client is placed face-down
- B. The client lies on his back with his head lower than his feet
- C. The client lies on his back with the knees drawn up toward the chest
- D. The client is sitting with the backrest at a 90-degree angle
Correct answer: D
Rationale: A high Fowler's position is a modification of the semi-Fowler's position, in which the client is seated with arms resting at the sides or in the lap. The high Fowler's position requires that the client's head and upper chest are elevated, and the backrest is at a 90-degree angle. This position supports breathing and appropriate chest wall movement, making it easier for the client to breathe. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect because a high Fowler's position involves the client being in a sitting position with the backrest at a 90-degree angle, not being face-down, lying with the head lower than the feet, or lying on the back with knees drawn up towards the chest.
5. In which situation would the nurse use bimanual palpation technique?
- A. Palpating the thorax of an infant
- B. Palpating the kidneys and uterus
- C. Assessing pulsations and vibrations
- D. Assessing the presence of tenderness and pain
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Bimanual palpation involves using both hands to envelop or capture specific body parts or organs like the kidneys, uterus, or adnexa. This technique is particularly useful for assessing the size, shape, consistency, and mobility of deep organs like the kidneys and uterus. Palpating the thorax of an infant (Choice A) is usually done with a different technique like gentle, single-handed palpation. Assessing pulsations and vibrations (Choice C) and assessing tenderness and pain (Choice D) typically do not require the use of bimanual palpation, making Choices A, C, and D incorrect.
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