after change of shift report which patient should the nurse assess first

NCLEX-RN

NCLEX RN Exam Preview Answers

1. After change-of-shift report, which patient should the nurse assess first?

A. 72-year-old with cor pulmonale who has 4+ bilateral edema in his legs and feet
B. 28-year-old with a history of a lung transplant and a temperature of 101 F (38.3 C)
C. 40-year-old with a pleural effusion who is complaining of severe stabbing chest pain
D. 64-year-old with lung cancer and tracheal deviation after subclavian catheter insertion

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The patient with lung cancer and tracheal deviation after a subclavian catheter insertion should be assessed first. Tracheal deviation can indicate tension pneumothorax, a life-threatening condition that requires immediate intervention to prevent inadequate cardiac output or hypoxemia. While the other patients also need assessment, the potential for tension pneumothorax in the patient with tracheal deviation necessitates urgent attention to prevent complications.

2. Which of the following is an example of an environmental hazard that may put the healthcare professional at risk of injury?

A. Loud noise from the hospital maintenance system
B. Airborne powder containing latex
C. Chemicals containing ethylene oxide
D. All of the above

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Healthcare professionals, including nurses, are exposed to various environmental hazards that may negatively impact their physical or mental health. Hazards come in several forms, such as loud noise from hospital systems, which can damage hearing; airborne latex powder, leading to allergic reactions; and chemicals like ethylene oxide, a sterilizing agent that can cause cancer. Therefore, all the options listed pose risks to healthcare professionals, making 'All of the above' the correct answer. Choice A, loud noise, is a hazard that can affect hearing health. Choice B, airborne latex powder, can trigger allergic responses. Choice C, chemicals containing ethylene oxide, are hazardous and can lead to serious health issues. Each option represents a distinct environmental risk that healthcare professionals should be aware of and take precautions against.

3. When providing endotracheal suctioning, for how long should the nurse suction the endotracheal tube of an intubated client on a ventilator at a time?

A. Five seconds or less
B. Ten seconds or less
C. At least 30 seconds
D. No longer than 60 seconds

Correct answer: B

Rationale: When providing endotracheal suctioning, the nurse should suction for no longer than ten seconds at a time. Suctioning for longer than ten seconds may cause hypoxia or bronchospasm. Extended suctioning may also place the client at risk of injury to the bronchial and tracheal structures. Choices C and D suggest prolonged suctioning durations that can lead to adverse effects on the client. Choice A, suctioning for five seconds or less, may not be adequate to clear secretions effectively, making choice B the most appropriate duration for safe and efficient suctioning in this scenario.

4. During an examination, the nurse notices that a female patient has a round "moon"? face, central trunk obesity, and a cervical hump. Her skin is fragile with bruises. The nurse determines that the patient likely has which condition?

A. Gigantism
B. Acromegaly
C. Cushing syndrome
D. Marfan syndrome

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Cushing syndrome is characterized by weight gain and edema with central trunk and cervical obesity (buffalo hump) and a round, plethoric face (moon face). Excessive catabolism in Cushing syndrome causes muscle wasting, weakness, thin arms and legs, reduced height, and thin, fragile skin with purple abdominal striae, bruising, and acne. Gigantism is characterized by increased height and weight and delayed sexual development, which are not present in the patient. Acromegaly results from excessive growth hormone secretion in adulthood, leading to bone overgrowth in specific areas like the face, head, hands, and feet. Marfan syndrome is an inherited connective tissue disorder characterized by a tall, thin stature and distinct features not seen in this patient. The combination of signs described in the question aligns with the clinical presentation of Cushing syndrome.

5. Which of the following is an example of physical abuse?

A. A slap to the person's hand
B. Threatening the person
C. Ignoring and isolating a person
D. Leaving a patient soiled for hours

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is 'A slap to the person's hand.' Slapping, hitting, and punching are clear examples of physical abuse. Physical abuse involves actions that can cause physical harm or injury to a person. Choice B, 'Threatening the person,' falls under the category of emotional or psychological abuse, where threats can cause fear and emotional distress but do not involve physical harm. Choice C, 'Ignoring and isolating a person,' is a form of neglect or emotional abuse, not physical abuse. Choice D, 'Leaving a patient soiled for hours,' is an example of neglect or lack of proper care, which is also not classified as physical abuse.