a nursing care plan states assist the patient to the bedside commode prn when will this patient get this assistance to the commode

NCLEX-RN

NCLEX RN Exam Prep

1. A nursing care plan states, 'Assist the patient to the bedside commode PRN.' When will this patient get this assistance to the commode?

A. Whenever needed
B. At bedtime
C. During the night
D. During the day

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is 'Whenever needed.' The abbreviation 'PRN' stands for 'pro re nata,' which translates to 'as needed' or 'whenever necessary.' This means that the patient will receive assistance to the commode whenever they require it, based on their individual needs and condition. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because 'PRN' does not specify a specific time like bedtime, during the night, or during the day; instead, it indicates assistance based on the patient's needs.

2. Which statement best describes evidence-based practice?

A. Reading and analyzing research reports to determine their implementation in nursing practice
B. Collecting data to evaluate the efficiency of nursing practice in delivering quality care
C. Monitoring unit practices to ensure adherence to Joint Commission standards
D. Using the most effective, current, and applicable information to guide nursing care for the best outcomes

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Evidence-based practice involves utilizing the most effective, current, and relevant information to inform nursing care decisions for optimal client outcomes. While research reports and data collection are important components of evidence-based practice, the essence lies in integrating all available information to determine the best course of action. Monitoring compliance with standards, as described in choices A and C, is essential for quality assurance but does not capture the comprehensive nature of evidence-based practice.

3. Which of the following sets of word parts means 'Pain'?

A. dynia and -algia
B. a- and an
C. ia and -ac
D. pathy and -osis

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is 'dynia and -algia.' The word parts 'dynia' and '-algia' specifically relate to pain. 'Dynia' refers to pain, and '-algia' also denotes pain. Therefore, when combined, they form the meaning 'pain.' Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because 'a-' and 'an' do not relate to pain, 'ia' and '-ac' do not specifically convey pain, and 'pathy' and '-osis' are not word parts that directly signify pain.

4. A client on the nursing unit is terminally ill but remains alert and oriented. Three days after admission, the nurse observes signs of depression. The client states, 'I'm tired of being sick. I wish I could end it all.' What is the most accurate and informative way to record this data in a nursing progress note?

A. Client appears to be depressed, possibly suicidal
B. Client reports being tired of being ill and wants to die
C. Client does not want to live any longer and is tired of being ill
D. Client states, 'I'm tired of being sick. I wish I could end it all.'

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Subjective data includes thoughts, beliefs, feelings, perceptions, and sensations that are apparent only to the person affected and cannot be measured, seen, or felt by the nurse. This information should be documented using the client's exact words in quotes. The other options indicate that the nurse has drawn the conclusion that the client no longer wishes to live. From the data provided, the cues do not support this assumption. A more complete assessment should be conducted to determine if the client is suicidal.

5. The nurse is conducting a health fair for older adults. Which statement is true regarding vital sign measurements in aging adults?

A. The pulse is easier to palpate due to the rigidity of the blood vessels.
B. An increased respiratory rate and a shallower inspiratory phase are expected findings.
C. A widened pulse pressure occurs from changes in the systolic and diastolic blood pressures.
D. Changes in the body's temperature regulatory mechanism decrease the older adult's likelihood of developing a fever.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Aging causes a decrease in vital capacity and decreased inspiratory reserve volume. As a result, the examiner may observe a shallower inspiratory phase and an increased respiratory rate in older adults. Contrary to common belief, the increased rigidity of arterial walls actually makes the pulse easier to palpate in aging adults. Pulse pressure is widened, not decreased, due to changes in systolic and diastolic blood pressures. Furthermore, changes in the body's temperature regulatory mechanism make older individuals less likely to develop a fever but more susceptible to hypothermia.