a nurse is performing an end of shift count of narcotics kept in the locked cabinet the narcotic log states there should be 26 oxycodone pills left b

NCLEX-RN

Saunders NCLEX RN Practice Questions

1. A nurse is performing an end-of-shift count of narcotics kept in the locked cabinet. The narcotic log states there should be 26 oxycodone pills left, but there are only 24 in the drawer. What is the first action of the nurse?

A. Perform the count again
B. Contact the pharmacy to determine if the narcotic log is incorrect
C. Check with the last nurse to sign out narcotics from the system
D. Notify the house supervisor that narcotic medications are missing

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The first action the nurse should take in this situation is to perform the count again. This step is crucial to ensure there was no miscount during the initial check. By verifying the count, the nurse can confirm if there is indeed a discrepancy in the number of oxycodone pills. Contacting the pharmacy, checking with the last nurse, or notifying the house supervisor should only be considered after ensuring the count is accurate. It's important to rule out any human error before escalating the issue to others.

2. Which of the following is an example of effective time management?

A. Always agreeing to others' requests for help
B. Arranging long meetings to discuss important data
C. Using multiple forms of technology to communicate or educate others
D. Working in a secluded area to minimize interruptions

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Effective time management involves strategies that help individuals focus and complete tasks efficiently. Working in a secluded area to minimize interruptions is an example of effective time management as it allows for concentration and productivity without distractions. Choices A, B, and C are not examples of effective time management. Always agreeing to others' requests for help can lead to overcommitment and time mismanagement. Arranging long meetings can be counterproductive as they consume time that could be used for actual work. Using multiple forms of technology, though helpful, can lead to information overload and inefficiency if not managed properly. Therefore, the most effective choice for optimal time management in this scenario is working in a secluded area to minimize interruptions.

3. Albert B. is incontinent of urine. He also wears glasses and hearing aids. His ____________lead(s) to his risk for falls.

A. incontinence and loss of vision
B. loss of vision
C. incontinence
D. loss of hearing

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Albert B. is at risk for falls due to two factors: his incontinence and his loss of vision. Loss of vision significantly impairs one's ability to navigate and avoid obstacles, thereby increasing the risk of falls. While incontinence is a risk factor for falls, the primary concern in this case is the loss of vision since it directly affects balance and safety. Therefore, the correct answer is 'loss of vision.' Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because they do not address the key factor of impaired vision leading to the risk of falls.

4. Jaime has a diagnosis of schizophrenia with negative symptoms. In planning care for the client, Nurse Brienne would anticipate a problem with:

A. Auditory hallucinations
B. Bizarre behaviors
C. Ideas of reference
D. Motivation for activities

Correct answer: D

Rationale: In clients with negative symptoms of schizophrenia, such as Jaime, a common problem is avolition, which is the lack of motivation for activities. These 'negative' symptoms are characterized by inexpressive faces, blank looks, monotone speech, few gestures, and a seeming lack of interest in the world. Patients may also experience an inability to feel pleasure or act spontaneously. It is crucial to differentiate between the lack of expression and lack of feeling, as well as between lack of will and lack of activity. Auditory hallucinations (choice A) are positive symptoms, not typically associated with negative symptoms of schizophrenia. Bizarre behaviors (choice B) are more aligned with positive symptoms like disorganized behavior. Ideas of reference (choice C) involve incorrectly interpreting casual incidents and external events as having direct reference to oneself, which is not directly related to motivation for activities seen in negative symptoms.

5. What does the 'B' in the SBAR acronym stand for?

A. Background
B. Basic
C. Beginning
D. Break

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The 'B' in the SBAR acronym stands for Background. SBAR is a standardized communication tool used in healthcare to effectively communicate critical information. In this context, 'Background' refers to providing relevant information about the patient's history, current status, and any other pertinent details. This information helps ensure clear and concise communication between healthcare providers, enhancing patient care. Choice B, 'Basic,' is incorrect as the 'B' specifically emphasizes the detailed background information. Choices C and D, 'Beginning' and 'Break,' are not accurate in the context of the SBAR communication tool.