NCLEX-RN
NCLEX RN Prioritization Questions
1. The nurse caring for Mrs. J is prepared to suction her endotracheal tube. Which of the following interventions will reduce hypoxia during this procedure?
- A. Hyperoxygenate Mrs. J for up to 60 seconds prior to starting
- B. Administer 15 mL of sterile fluid into the tube prior to suctioning
- C. Suction for no longer than 30 seconds at a time
- D. Wait 30 seconds after suctioning before attempting again
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Before suctioning a client's endotracheal tube, it is essential to hyperoxygenate the client for approximately 30 to 60 seconds. Hyperoxygenation helps increase oxygen delivery to the tissues, reducing the risk of hypoxia during and after the suctioning procedure. Administering fluid into the tube before suctioning (Choice B) is unnecessary and can lead to complications. Suctioning for no longer than 30 seconds at a time (Choice C) is a general guideline but does not specifically address reducing hypoxia. Waiting 30 seconds after suctioning before attempting again (Choice D) may lead to inadequate oxygenation and potential hypoxia, making it less effective in preventing this complication compared to hyperoxygenation prior to suctioning.
2. The patient is being taught about pulmonary function testing (PFT). Which statement made by the patient indicates effective teaching?
- A. I will use my inhaler right before the test.
- B. I won't eat or drink anything 8 hours before the test.
- C. I should inhale deeply and blow out as hard as I can during the test.
- D. My blood pressure and pulse will be checked every 15 minutes after the test.
Correct answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is 'I should inhale deeply and blow out as hard as I can during the test.' This statement indicates effective teaching because for PFT, the patient needs to inhale deeply and exhale forcefully. This maneuver helps in assessing lung function accurately. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect. Using an inhaler right before the test may alter the test results, which is not recommended. Fasting for 8 hours is not necessary for a PFT, and checking blood pressure and pulse every 15 minutes after the test is not part of the PFT procedure.
3. What action will the nurse plan to take for a 40-year-old patient with multiple sclerosis (MS) who has urinary retention caused by a flaccid bladder?
- A. Decrease the patient's evening fluid intake.
- B. Teach the patient how to use the Cred method.
- C. Suggest the use of adult incontinence briefs for nighttime only.
- D. Assist the patient to the commode every 2 hours during the day.
Correct answer: B
Rationale: For a 40-year-old patient with multiple sclerosis experiencing urinary retention due to a flaccid bladder, teaching the Cred method is the appropriate action. The Cred method involves applying manual pressure over the bladder to aid in bladder emptying. Decreasing fluid intake is not the correct approach as it will not address the underlying issue of bladder emptying and may lead to dehydration and urinary tract infections. Using adult incontinence briefs only addresses the symptom of incontinence without addressing the bladder emptying problem. Assisting the patient to the commode every 2 hours does not actively address the issue of improving bladder emptying as effectively as teaching the Cred method.
4. The mother of a newborn infant with hypospadias asks the nurse why circumcision cannot be performed. Which is the most appropriate response by the nurse?
- A. Circumcision will cause an infection.
- B. Circumcision is not performed in a newborn.
- C. Circumcision will cause difficulty with urination.
- D. Circumcision has been delayed to save tissue for surgical repair.
Correct answer: D
Rationale: The reason circumcision is not performed in a newborn with hypospadias is that the dorsal foreskin tissue will be needed for the surgical repair of hypospadias. Delaying circumcision allows for the preservation of tissue that will be crucial for the corrective surgery. This surgical repair is typically done within the first year of life to minimize the psychological impact on the child. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect as they do not address the specific reason for delaying circumcision in this case.
5. The nurse assesses a patient with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) who has been admitted with increasing dyspnea over the last 3 days. Which finding is most important for the nurse to report to the healthcare provider?
- A. Respirations are 36 breaths/minute.
- B. Anterior-posterior chest ratio is 1:1.
- C. Lung expansion is decreased bilaterally.
- D. Hyperresonance to percussion is present.
Correct answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is 'Respirations are 36 breaths/minute.' An increased respiratory rate is a crucial sign of respiratory distress in patients with COPD, necessitating immediate interventions like oxygen therapy or medications. The other options are common chronic changes seen in COPD patients. Option B, the 'Anterior-posterior chest ratio is 1:1,' is related to the barrel chest commonly seen in COPD due to hyperinflation. Option C, 'Lung expansion is decreased bilaterally,' is expected in COPD due to air trapping. Option D, 'Hyperresonance to percussion is present,' is typical in COPD patients with increased lung volume and air trapping.
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