NCLEX-RN
NCLEX RN Practice Questions With Rationale
1. After a lengthy explanation of a medical procedure, the patient asks many questions. The physician answers all of the questions to the best of their ability. The patient then gives consent for treatment. The costly equipment and supplies are put into place, and the patient is prepared. Two minutes before the procedure is to start, the patient begins panicking and changes their mind. Which of the following situations would be the best way to avoid litigation?
- A. Document that the patient originally gave consent and proceed if the benefits of the procedure outweigh the patient's wishes.
- B. Have the patient sign a form stating that they are refusing consent. If they refuse to sign, do not proceed with the procedure.
- C. Repeat the explanation of the procedure until the patient understands that having the procedure done is the best form of treatment. Do not proceed with the procedure.
- D. Do not proceed. Document the patient's refusal, have the patient sign a refusal to consent to treatment. If the patient refuses to sign the form, have a witness available to sign.
Correct answer: D
Rationale: In this scenario, the best course of action to avoid litigation is to respect the patient's right to refuse treatment, especially when changing their mind before the procedure starts. By not proceeding with the treatment, documenting the patient's refusal, and having the patient sign a refusal to consent form, you are following proper ethical and legal procedures. If the patient refuses to sign the form, having a witness available to sign further strengthens the documentation of the patient's decision. This approach ensures that the patient's autonomy and right to make informed decisions about their healthcare are respected. Choices A, B, and C do not prioritize the patient's right to refuse treatment and could potentially lead to legal issues if treatment is carried out against the patient's wishes.
2. The OR nursing staff are preparing a client for a surgical procedure. The anesthesiologist has given the client medications, and the client has entered the induction stage of anesthesia. The nursing staff can expect which of the following symptoms and activities from the client during this time?
- A. Irregular breathing patterns
- B. Minimal heartbeat, dilated pupils
- C. Relaxed muscles, regular breathing, constricted pupils
- D. Euphoria, drowsiness, dizziness
Correct answer: D
Rationale: During the induction stage of anesthesia, the client may exhibit symptoms like euphoria, drowsiness, or dizziness. This stage occurs after the administration of medications by the anesthesiologist and ends when the client loses consciousness. Choice A is incorrect as irregular breathing patterns are not typically associated with the induction stage. Choice B is incorrect as minimal heartbeat and dilated pupils are not commonly observed during this stage. Choice C is incorrect as relaxed muscles, regular breathing, and constricted pupils are not indicative of the induction stage of anesthesia.
3. Which of the following situations might warrant a laboratory magnesium level?
- A. Hyperthyroidism
- B. Arthritis
- C. Ulcerative colitis
- D. Depression
Correct answer: C
Rationale: Ulcerative colitis can lead to symptoms such as abdominal pain, fever, diarrhea, and weight loss. This condition may impact the absorption of certain nutrients, including magnesium. Therefore, patients with chronic gastrointestinal conditions like ulcerative colitis should be screened for electrolyte imbalances related to impaired digestion. Hyperthyroidism, arthritis, and depression do not typically directly affect magnesium levels in the same way as gastrointestinal conditions like ulcerative colitis.
4. A toddler has recently been diagnosed with cerebral palsy. Which of the following information should the nurse provide to the parents? Select one that doesn't apply.
- A. Regular developmental screening is important to avoid secondary developmental delays.
- B. Cerebral palsy is caused by injury to the upper motor neurons and results in motor dysfunction, as well as possible ocular and speech difficulties.
- C. Developmental milestones may be slightly delayed but usually will require no additional intervention.
- D. Parent support groups are helpful for sharing strategies and managing health care issues.
Correct answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is 'Developmental milestones may be slightly delayed but usually will require no additional intervention.' This statement is incorrect as delayed developmental milestones in a child with cerebral palsy require interventions and constant follow-ups. Developmental monitoring is essential to track a child's growth and development over time. If any concerns are raised during monitoring, a developmental screening test should be conducted promptly to address any developmental delays or issues. Regular interventions, therapies, and support are crucial to optimize the child's development and well-being. Therefore, it is important for parents to be aware that additional interventions may be necessary to support their child's development.
5. At a community health fair, the blood pressure of a 62-year-old client is 160/96 mmHg. The client states, "My blood pressure is usually much lower."? The nurse should tell the client to:
- A. Go get a blood pressure check within the next 15 minutes
- B. Check blood pressure again in two (2) months
- C. See the healthcare provider immediately
- D. Visit the healthcare provider within one (1) week for a BP check
Correct answer: A
Rationale: The blood pressure reading of 160/96 mmHg is moderately high, indicating hypertension. Given that the client mentions their blood pressure is usually lower, there is concern for acute complications like a stroke. Therefore, an immediate reassessment of the blood pressure within the next 15 minutes is warranted to confirm the reading and take appropriate actions if necessary. Waiting for two months (Choice B) or a week (Choice D) could pose risks of delaying intervention. Seeing the healthcare provider immediately (Choice C) is a good option, but in this case, the urgency is not as high as to require immediate attention at the healthcare provider's office.
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