NCLEX-RN
NCLEX Psychosocial Questions
1. While receiving a preoperative enema, a client starts to cry and says, 'I'm sorry you have to do this messy thing for me.' Which is the nurse's best response?
- A. I don't mind it.'
- B. 'You seem upset.'
- C. 'This is part of my job.'
- D. 'Nurses get used to this.'
Correct answer: B
Rationale: The nurse's best response in this situation is to acknowledge the client's emotional state, as it shows empathy and encourages further expression of feelings. Choice A, 'I don't mind it,' dismisses the client's emotions and does not address the underlying issue. Choice C, 'This is part of my job,' focuses on the task rather than the client's emotional needs. Choice D, 'Nurses get used to this,' minimizes the client's feelings and lacks empathy. By selecting choice B, 'You seem upset,' the nurse acknowledges the client's distress and opens the door for further communication and support.
2. A client is receiving treatment for delusional behavior. He believes that his neighbor is purposefully poisoning his water system in an attempt to make him sick. Which of the following responses of the nurse is most appropriate?
- A. Did you have the water tested to be sure?
- B. Why do you feel like your neighbor is trying to poison you?
- C. Let's just sit here and watch this television program.
- D. Don't be silly; your neighbor would do no such thing.
Correct answer: B
Rationale: When a client presents with delusional beliefs, the nurse should avoid arguing with the client and should accept the client's initial need to hold onto the delusions. By asking the client 'Why do you feel like your neighbor is trying to poison you?' the nurse encourages the client to express his beliefs further. This open-ended question allows the client to elaborate on his delusions without feeling judged. It helps build trust between the nurse and the client, which is crucial for therapeutic communication. This approach may eventually lead to the client being more receptive to exploring and addressing his delusions. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect. Choice A may come off as dismissive and does not address the client's underlying beliefs. Choice C is a distraction and does not address the client's concerns. Choice D is confrontational and dismissive of the client's beliefs, which can damage the therapeutic relationship.
3. What is a common reason why clients abuse alcohol?
- A. To blunt reality
- B. To precipitate euphoria
- C. To promote social interaction
- D. To stimulate the central nervous system
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Clients often abuse alcohol to blunt reality. Alcohol, by depressing the central nervous system and distorting or altering reality, can reduce anxiety. It is not primarily used to precipitate euphoria; instead, it may lead to mood swings, impaired judgment, and aggressive behavior. While alcohol can be used as a social lubricant, individuals with alcohol use disorder often drink in isolation. Moreover, excessive alcohol consumption can result in inappropriate and aggressive behaviors that hinder social interactions. It's important to note that alcohol is a depressant, unlike stimulants such as amphetamines and cocaine.
4. A client had a first-trimester abortion and has been unable to function for 3 months. Which type of grief is the client experiencing?
- A. Complex bereavement
- B. Anticipatory
- C. Disenfranchised
- D. Complicated
Correct answer: C
Rationale: The client is experiencing disenfranchised grief. Disenfranchised grief refers to grief over a loss that is not socially recognized or acknowledged. In this case, grief after an abortion falls into this category. It can lead to prolonged emotional distress as the loss may not be openly acknowledged or supported by others. Complex bereavement is characterized by dysfunctional grieving that extends beyond 12 months. Anticipatory grief occurs when the loss is expected or predictable, allowing individuals to start the grieving process before the actual loss. Complicated grief is marked by an inability to progress through the grief stages, leading to intense feelings of depression, anger, and emptiness, often coupled with a preoccupation with the deceased.
5. Your patient has been confused for years. Your patient can be best described as having a chronic ___________ disorder.
- A. physical
- B. psychotic
- C. thinking
- D. palliative
Correct answer: C
Rationale: Patients who experience long-term confusion often have a chronic thinking, or cognitive, disorder. Alzheimer's disease is a prime example of a disorder that results in prolonged confusion and memory loss. Choice A, 'physical', is incorrect as the issue described is related to cognitive functioning, not physical health. Choice B, 'psychotic', refers to a severe mental disorder characterized by a loss of contact with reality, which is not the primary issue presented in the scenario. Choice D, 'palliative', is not relevant as it pertains to specialized medical care for individuals with serious illnesses, focusing on providing relief from symptoms and stress rather than managing chronic confusion.
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