NCLEX-RN
NCLEX RN Practice Questions With Rationale
1. What preparation is necessary for a colposcopy procedure?
- A. NPO for 8-12 hours before the procedure.
- B. D/C all hypertension medications for two days prior to the procedure.
- C. Take three Dulcolax tablets and two containers of Miralax the day before to clear out the lower GI system.
- D. None of the above prep is necessary for this type of procedure.
Correct answer: D
Rationale: A colposcopy procedure is performed to examine the vagina and cervix. The only preparation required is washing the external genitals with soap and water on the morning of the procedure. Choices A, B, and C suggest unnecessary preparations that are not relevant to a colposcopy. NPO for 8-12 hours, discontinuing hypertension medications, and using laxatives are not part of the standard preparation for a colposcopy.
2. Which of the following is a true statement about assessing blood pressure by palpation?
- A. Only the diastolic blood pressure can be assessed through palpation.
- B. The palpation technique is most useful for infants and small children.
- C. Hypertension is a common condition that might need to be assessed through blood pressure palpation.
- D. Only the systolic blood pressure can be assessed through palpation.
Correct answer: D
Rationale: When assessing blood pressure by palpation, it is important to note that only the systolic blood pressure can be determined accurately using this method. Diastolic blood pressure cannot be reliably assessed through palpation. The palpation technique is particularly useful in situations where traditional blood pressure measurement methods are challenging, such as in infants, small children, or individuals with low blood pressure that is difficult to hear. Hypertension, a common condition characterized by elevated blood pressure, is typically assessed using auscultation rather than palpation. Therefore, the correct statement is that only the systolic blood pressure can be assessed through palpation.
3. A patient with bipolar disorder asks the nurse, "Why did I get this illness? I don't want to be sick."? The nurse would best respond with:
- A. People who develop mental illnesses often had a very traumatic childhood experience.
- B. There is some evidence that contracting a virus during childhood can lead to mental disorders.
- C. Sometimes people with mental illness have an overactive immune system.
- D. We don't fully understand the cause, but mental illnesses do seem to run in the family.
Correct answer: D
Rationale: The correct response is, 'We don't fully understand the cause, but mental illnesses do seem to run in the family.' Current research suggests that while genetics play a role in the development of mental illnesses like bipolar disorder, it is not the sole factor. Environmental influences, life experiences, and other non-genetic factors also contribute significantly to the manifestation of mental disorders. Choices A, B, and C provide incorrect information that is not supported by current research. Traumatic childhood experiences, contracting a virus during childhood, and an overactive immune system are not established causes of bipolar disorder or mental illnesses in general.
4. Becky is a 17-year-old type I diabetic who has been admitted for her third episode of diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) since being diagnosed last year. She states that she hates feeling different from her friends and refuses to take her insulin as recommended. What would be the most helpful action for Becky?
- A. Scolding her for not taking her insulin
- B. Recommending that she use an insulin pump
- C. Contacting the local support group for diabetic teens
- D. Telling her parents they must provide more strict oversight
Correct answer: C
Rationale: Contacting the local support group for diabetic teens would be the most helpful action for Becky. By reaching out to see if another diabetic teenager could provide support, Becky would have the opportunity to connect with someone in her peer group who faces similar challenges. This connection can help reduce her sense of isolation and the feeling of being 'different.' Choice A, 'Scolding her for not taking her insulin,' is inappropriate and could further alienate Becky. It does not address the underlying emotional issues driving her behavior. Choice B, 'Recommending that she use an insulin pump,' does not directly address Becky's emotional struggle with feeling different from her friends. While an insulin pump may be a helpful tool, it does not tackle the root cause of her non-compliance. Choice D, 'Telling her parents they must provide more strict oversight,' focuses on imposing stricter control without addressing Becky's emotional needs or offering peer support, which may not be effective in improving her insulin adherence in the long term.
5. Gio told his nurse that the FBI is monitoring and recording his every movement and that microphones have been placed in the unit walls. Which action would be the most therapeutic response?
- A. Confront the delusional material directly by telling Gio that this simply is not so.
- B. Tell Gio that this must seem frightening to him but that you believe he is safe here.
- C. Tell Gio to wait and talk about these beliefs in his one-on-one counseling sessions.
- D. Isolate Gio when he begins to talk about these beliefs.
Correct answer: B
Rationale: The most therapeutic response in this situation is to acknowledge Gio's feelings of fear and validate his experience by expressing empathy ('this must seem frightening to him'). By reassuring Gio that he is safe in the current environment, the nurse can help reduce his anxiety and build trust. Choice A is not recommended as directly confronting delusional beliefs may lead to increased distress and resistance. Choice C delays addressing Gio's concerns and may not provide immediate support. Choice D of isolating Gio can worsen his feelings of paranoia and distrust in the treatment setting.
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