NCLEX-RN
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1. When providing culturally competent care, nurses must incorporate cultural assessments into their health assessments. Which statement is most appropriate to use when initiating an assessment of cultural beliefs with an older American Indian patient?
- A. "Are you of the Christian faith?"?
- B. "Do you want to see a medicine man?"?
- C. "How often do you seek help from medical providers?"?
- D. "What cultural or spiritual beliefs are important to you?"?
Correct answer: D
Rationale: The nurse needs to assess the cultural beliefs and practices of the patient and should ask questions in a way that communicates acceptance of their beliefs and allows for open communication. Therefore, the most appropriate question to initiate an assessment of cultural beliefs with an older American Indian patient is "What cultural or spiritual beliefs are important to you?"? This question shows respect for the patient's beliefs and encourages them to share relevant information. Asking if they are of the Christian faith does not promote open communication and may not reflect the patient's actual beliefs. While some American Indians may seek assistance from a medicine man or shaman, it is not appropriate to make assumptions without direct input from the patient. Asking how often they seek help from medical providers is not directly related to understanding their cultural beliefs and may not provide relevant insights for culturally competent care.
2. When examining an older adult, which technique should the nurse use?
- A. Minimize touching the patient as much as possible.
- B. Attempt to perform the entire physical examination during one visit.
- C. Speak loudly and slowly due to potential hearing deficits in aging adults.
- D. Arrange the sequence of the examination to allow as few position changes as possible.
Correct answer: D
Rationale: When examining an older adult, it is crucial to arrange the sequence of the examination to minimize position changes. This helps prevent discomfort and fatigue for the older adult, who may have mobility issues. Option A is incorrect because physical touch is essential when examining older adults, as their other senses may be diminished. Option B is incorrect as it is better to break the examination into multiple visits to ensure thoroughness and comfort. Option C is incorrect because while some older adults may have hearing deficits, it is not appropriate to assume this for all individuals without proper assessment.
3. During the examination, it is often appropriate to offer some brief teaching about the patient's body or the examiner's findings. Which one of these statements by the nurse is most appropriate?
- A. "Your atrial dysrhythmias are under control."?
- B. "You have pitting edema and mild varicosities."?
- C. "Your pulse is 80 beats per minute, which is within the normal range."?
- D. "I'm using my stethoscope to listen for any crackles, wheezes, or rubs in your lungs."?
Correct answer: C
Rationale: During an examination, providing brief educational information to the patient can enhance rapport, as long as the patient can comprehend the terminology. The most appropriate statement from the nurse is "Your pulse is 80 beats per minute, which is within the normal range." This statement conveys a vital sign in a way that is likely understandable to the patient. Choices A, B, and D use terminology that may be unfamiliar or confusing to the patient. Option A mentions 'atrial dysrhythmias,' which might not be clear to the patient. Option B involves terms like 'pitting edema' and 'varicosities,' which could be unfamiliar to the patient. Option D references 'crackles,' 'wheezes,' and 'rubs,' which might not be easily understood by the patient.
4. An adult patient is at the clinic for a physical examination. The patient states that they are feeling 'very anxious' about the physical examination. What steps can the nurse take to make the patient more comfortable?
- A. Appear unhurried and confident when examining the patient.
- B. Leave the room when the patient undresses unless they need assistance.
- C. Ask the patient to change into an examining gown and to leave their undergarments on.
- D. Measure vital signs at the beginning of the examination to gradually accustom the patient.
Correct answer: A
Rationale: To help alleviate the patient's anxiety, the nurse should appear unhurried and confident during the examination. This can make the patient feel more at ease and reassured. It is important for the nurse to respect the patient's privacy by leaving the room while the patient changes unless assistance is needed. The patient should be instructed to change into an examining gown while leaving their undergarments on, providing a sense of comfort and familiarity. Additionally, measuring vital signs at the beginning of the examination can help gradually acclimate the patient to the process, making it less overwhelming. Therefore, the correct answer is to appear unhurried and confident when examining the patient. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because they do not directly address the patient's anxiety or provide comfort in the same way as the correct answer.
5. The nurse is preparing to perform a physical assessment. The correct action by the nurse is reflected by which statement?
- A. Performs the examination from both sides of the bed.
- B. Examines tender or painful areas last to help relieve the patient's anxiety.
- C. Follows a flexible examination sequence, considering the patient's age and condition.
- D. Organizes the assessment to ensure that the patient does not change positions too often.
Correct answer: D
Rationale: The nurse should organize the assessment to minimize the patient's need to change positions frequently, ensuring efficiency and comfort. It is essential to perform the examination from both sides of the bed to facilitate a comprehensive assessment. Examining tender or painful areas last can help reduce patient discomfort and anxiety. The examination sequence should be flexible, taking into account the patient's age, condition, and specific needs. This approach allows for a tailored and patient-centered assessment, optimizing the quality of care provided.
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