NCLEX-RN
NCLEX Psychosocial Questions
1. The nurse is caring for an Asian patient who is being admitted to the hospital. Which action would be most appropriate for the nurse to take when interviewing this patient?
- A. Avoid eye contact with the patient
- B. Observe the patient's use of eye contact
- C. Look directly at the patient when interacting
- D. Ask the patient's family member about the patient's cultural beliefs
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Observing the patient's use of eye contact will be most useful in determining the best way to communicate effectively with the patient. Different cultures have varying norms regarding eye contact, so by observing the patient, the nurse can adapt their communication style accordingly. Looking directly at the patient or avoiding eye contact may not be universally appropriate and could be misinterpreted. Asking a family member about the patient's cultural beliefs is not ideal as cultural beliefs can vary among individuals within the same cultural group. It is best to assess the patient directly to provide culturally sensitive care.
2. A client who just had a bilateral mastectomy is preparing to talk about body changes. Which of the following actions of the nurse is most appropriate during this discussion?
- A. Provide a room that offers minimal distractions
- B. Ask closed-ended questions to allow the client to think about her situation
- C. Write detailed notes during the conversation to track important information
- D. Ask personal questions about the client's background to determine how the procedure has affected her self-concept
Correct answer: A
Rationale: When preparing to discuss sensitive topics such as body changes post-bilateral mastectomy, it is crucial to create a conducive environment. Providing a room with minimal distractions allows the client to feel comfortable, safe, and more likely to open up about personal feelings without interruptions. This setting fosters open communication between the nurse and client, facilitating a more empathetic and supportive interaction. Closed-ended questions (Choice B) may limit the client's ability to express emotions fully. Writing detailed notes (Choice C) during the conversation may distract the nurse from actively listening and being present for the client. Asking personal questions about the client's background (Choice D) may not be appropriate during such a vulnerable discussion and could potentially create discomfort for the client.
3. A client asks the nurse, 'Should I tell my partner that I just found out I'm human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) positive?' Which is the nurse's most appropriate response?
- A. Do not tell your partner unless asked.
- B. This is a decision you alone can make.
- C. You are having difficulty deciding what to say.
- D. Tell your partner that you don't know how you became sick.
Correct answer: C
Rationale: The most appropriate response for the nurse in this situation is to acknowledge the client's struggle in deciding what to communicate to their partner. By stating 'You are having difficulty deciding what to say,' the nurse validates the client's feelings and encourages further discussion. Option A is incorrect as it suggests withholding information unless asked, which may not align with ethical principles of honesty and transparency in relationships. Option B, while acknowledging the client's autonomy, does not provide direct support or guidance. Option D is inappropriate as it involves dishonesty by suggesting telling the partner an untruthful reason for the illness.
4. Which of the following is a nursing intervention for a client who is experiencing an acute panic attack?
- A. Encourage the client to sit down in a quiet environment
- B. Allow the client to direct the situation
- C. Try to focus the client on one aspect of care, such as regulating breathing patterns
- D. Speak in a commanding tone of voice to get the client's attention
Correct answer: C
Rationale: When assisting a client with an acute panic attack, the primary goal is to help reduce their anxiety levels. Encouraging the client to focus on one controllable aspect, like regulating breathing patterns, can aid in calming them down. This intervention helps the client to regain control over their breathing, which can alleviate some of the symptoms associated with panic attacks. Options A and B are incorrect because allowing the client to direct the situation or sit down in a quiet environment may not be beneficial during an acute panic attack. Option D is inappropriate as speaking in a commanding tone can further escalate the client's anxiety rather than helping to calm them down.
5. The nurse is caring for a newly admitted patient. Which intervention is the best example of a culturally appropriate nursing intervention?
- A. Insist that family members provide most of the patient's personal care.
- B. Maintain a personal space of at least 2 feet when assessing the patient.
- C. Ask permission before touching a patient during the physical assessment.
- D. Consider the patient's ethnicity as an important factor in planning care.
Correct answer: C
Rationale: Culturally appropriate nursing care requires sensitivity to the beliefs and practices of diverse cultural groups. Asking permission before touching a patient during a physical assessment is a universally respectful practice, as many cultures consider it disrespectful to touch a person without consent. This approach demonstrates respect for the patient's autonomy and cultural preferences. Maintaining a personal space of at least 2 feet can be a good practice for infection control or personal comfort but may not be culturally significant for all patients. Insisting that family members provide most of the patient's personal care may not align with the patient's cultural norms or preferences. Considering a patient's ethnicity as the most important factor in care planning overlooks the individuality of the patient and may lead to stereotyping or assumptions that are not accurate or helpful in providing tailored care.
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