NCLEX NCLEX-RN
NCLEX RN Exam Questions
1. A 23-year-old has been admitted with acute liver failure. Which assessment data are most important for the nurse to communicate to the healthcare provider?
- A. Asterixis and lethargy
- B. Jaundiced sclera and skin
- C. Elevated total bilirubin level
- D. Liver 3 cm below costal margin
Correct answer: Asterixis and lethargy
Rationale: The most critical assessment data for the nurse to communicate to the healthcare provider in a patient with acute liver failure are asterixis and lethargy. These findings are indicative of grade 2 hepatic encephalopathy, which signals a rapid deterioration in the patient's condition, necessitating early transfer to a transplant center. Jaundiced sclera and skin, elevated total bilirubin level, and a liver 3 cm below the costal margin are all typical findings in hepatic failure but do not indicate an immediate need for a change in the therapeutic plan. Therefore, while these findings are relevant and should be reported, they are not as urgent as asterixis and lethargy in a patient with acute liver failure.
2. The body system that functions to maintain fluid balance, support immunity, and contains the spleen is the:
- A. Lymphatic System
- B. Digestive System
- C. Urinary System
- D. Respiratory System
Correct answer: Lymphatic System
Rationale: The Lymphatic System is responsible for maintaining fluid balance and supporting immunity. It contains organs like the spleen, tonsils, thymus, lymph nodes, and lymph vessels. The spleen, a part of the lymphatic system, plays a crucial role in filtering blood and storing blood cells. The Digestive System is primarily involved in the breakdown and absorption of nutrients, not fluid balance or immunity. The Urinary System is responsible for filtering waste products from the blood and regulating fluid balance, but it does not support immunity or contain the spleen. The Respiratory System is focused on gas exchange and oxygenating the blood, not fluid balance or immunity.
3. A child is diagnosed with Hirschsprung's disease. The nurse is teaching the parents about the cause of the disease. Which statement, if made by the parent, supports that teaching was successful?
- A. The absence of special cells in the rectum caused the disease.
- B. Incomplete digestion of the protein part of wheat, barley, rye, and oats is not the cause of the disease.
- C. The disease does not occur due to increased bowel motility leading to spasm and pain.
- D. The disease is not caused by the inability to tolerate sugar found in dairy products.
Correct answer: The absence of special cells in the rectum caused the disease.
Rationale: Hirschsprung's disease, also known as congenital aganglionosis or megacolon, is characterized by the absence of ganglion cells in the rectum and, sometimes, extending into the colon. Choice A correctly explains the cause of Hirschsprung's disease. Choice B is incorrect as it describes celiac disease, which is related to gluten intolerance. Choice C is inaccurate as it describes symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome, not the cause of Hirschsprung's disease. Choice D is wrong as it pertains to lactose intolerance, not Hirschsprung's disease.
4. What is a common error when taking a pulse?
- A. Placing the index finger on the radial artery located on the thumb side of a patient's wrist.
- B. Noting a pulse as 'weak' when the pulsation disappears upon adding pressure.
- C. Counting the pulse for 15 seconds and multiplying the number by four.
- D. None of the above will cause errors.
Correct answer: C: Counting the pulse for 15 seconds and multiplying the number by four
Rationale: The correct answer is counting the pulse for 15 seconds and multiplying the number by four. To accurately assess a patient's heart rate or pulse, it is crucial to count the pulse for a full minute. Counting for only 15 seconds and then multiplying by four may result in an inaccurate heart rate calculation. This approach could miss arrhythmias or intermittent pulsations that could be vital indicators of the patient's condition. Placing the index finger on the radial artery, which is located on the thumb side of the patient's wrist, is the correct technique for taking a pulse. Noting a pulse as 'weak' when the pulsation disappears upon adding pressure is a valid observation and not an error in itself. Therefore, the most common error in this scenario is incorrectly calculating the pulse rate by multiplying a 15-second count by four.
5. The nurse is preparing to examine a 4-year-old child. Which action by the nurse is appropriate for this age group?
- A. Explain the procedures briefly to alleviate the child’s anxiety.
- B. Give the child feedback and reassurance during the examination.
- C. Ask the child to undress as needed for the examination.
- D. Perform an examination of the head last.
Correct answer: Give the child feedback and reassurance during the examination.
Rationale: For a 4-year-old child, short and simple explanations should be provided to avoid overwhelming the child. It is important to give feedback and reassurance during the examination to create a comforting environment for the child. Asking the child to undress as needed is appropriate for a thorough examination, as children at this age are usually willing to do so. Performing an examination of the head last allows the child to become more comfortable during the assessment. Therefore, the most appropriate action for a 4-year-old child is to provide feedback and reassurance during the examination, ensuring a positive experience for the child.
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