NCLEX-PN

1. The LPN on shift notices a client coming into the clinic with bruises on his arm. The client seems very afraid and doesn’t speak much, which concerns the nurse because these are signs of physical abuse. The nurse should ____.

• A. use therapeutic communication to talk to the client and offer support while reporting the findings to the appropriate authorities based on the state requirements and protocols
• B. report the findings to the appropriate authorities based on the state requirements and protocols
• C. ignore the bruises, as this is not why the client is being treated and is not appropriate for the nurse to address
• D. report the suspected abuse to another nurse and collaborate on how to handle it

Correct Answer: report the findings to the appropriate authorities based on the state requirements and protocols

Rationale: In cases of suspected abuse, healthcare providers have a legal and ethical obligation to report such incidents to the relevant authorities. This not only ensures the safety and well-being of the client but also helps in preventing further harm. Option A is incorrect as attempting to gather evidence of abuse may interfere with the official investigation and is not the nurse's role. Offering support is crucial, but the priority is to report the findings to the appropriate authorities. Option C is incorrect as ignoring signs of abuse goes against the duty of a healthcare provider to protect their clients. Option D is incorrect as reporting suspected abuse to other nurses without involving the appropriate authorities may delay necessary actions and intervention.

2. The nurse has a client who is being transferred to another floor right around change of shift. Which of the following actions is least appropriate?

• A. Inform the staff on the other floor of any unresolved issues with the client.
• B. Ask the charge nurse if overtime would be permitted to complete the client’s transfer to the other floor.
• C. Ask the new nurse to take care of the transfer since the client’s medical record has all of the information, and a report should not be needed.
• D. Complete the transfer paperwork before the client is transferred.

Correct Answer: Ask the new nurse to take care of the transfer since the client’s medical record has all of the information, and a report should not be needed.

Rationale: The least appropriate action in this scenario is to ask the new nurse to take care of the transfer without providing a full handoff of care. It is crucial to ensure a safe handoff during the transfer to maintain continuity of care and patient safety. Informing the staff on the other floor of any unresolved issues with the client (Choice A) is important for the client's well-being as it helps in providing comprehensive care. Asking the charge nurse about overtime (Choice B) demonstrates consideration for completing the task effectively, but it should not take precedence over ensuring a proper handoff. Completing the transfer paperwork before the client is transferred (Choice D) is necessary to ensure all documentation is in order, but it should be done in conjunction with providing a thorough handoff of care to the new nurse.

3. A wrong committed by one person against another (or against the property of another) that might result in a civil trial is:

• A. a tort
• B. a crime
• C. a misdemeanor
• D. a felony

Correct Answer: a tort

Rationale: A tort is a civil wrong committed by one person against another person (or against the property of another) that might result in civil trials. Unlike crimes, which are considered wrongs against the public, torts are personal wrongs. Misdemeanors are crimes punishable with fines or imprisonment for less than one year, whereas felonies are serious crimes punishable by imprisonment for more than one year in a State or Federal penitentiary. Therefore, the correct answer is a tort as it aligns with the definition of a civil wrong that leads to potential civil trials, distinguishing it from crimes, misdemeanors, and felonies.

4. Which of the following foods should be avoided by clients who are prone to developing heartburn as a result of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)?

• A. lettuce
• B. eggs
• C. chocolate
• D. butterscotch

Correct Answer: chocolate

Rationale: The correct answer is chocolate. Ingestion of chocolate can reduce lower esophageal sphincter (LES) pressure, leading to reflux and clinical symptoms of GERD. Lettuce, eggs, and butterscotch do not affect LES pressure and are less likely to trigger heartburn in individuals with GERD. Therefore, clients who are prone to developing heartburn due to GERD should avoid consuming chocolate to manage their symptoms effectively.

5. When transferring a client with hemiparesis from a bed to a wheelchair, which safety measure should be implemented?

• A. Standing the client and walking them to the wheelchair
• B. Moving the wheelchair close to the client’s bed and standing and pivoting the client on their unaffected extremity to the wheelchair
• C. Moving the wheelchair close to the client’s bed and standing and pivoting the client on their affected extremity to the wheelchair
• D. Having the client stand and push their body to the wheelchair

Correct Answer: Moving the wheelchair close to the client’s bed and standing and pivoting the client on their unaffected extremity to the wheelchair

Rationale: When transferring a client with hemiparesis from a bed to a wheelchair, it is crucial to ensure their safety. The correct safety measure is to move the wheelchair close to the client’s bed and have the client stand and pivot on their unaffected extremity to the wheelchair. This method provides support with the unaffected limb, reducing the risk of falls or injuries. Choice A is incorrect as it suggests walking the client, which may not be safe or feasible. Choice C is incorrect because pivoting on the affected extremity can increase the risk of injury. Choice D is incorrect as it does not consider the client's limitations and safety needs, as it involves pushing their body which may not be possible with hemiparesis.