NCLEX-RN
NCLEX RN Exam Preview Answers
1. During a class on cultural practices, the nurse hears the term cultural taboo. Which statement illustrates the concept of a cultural taboo?
- A. Trying prayer before seeking medical help
- B. Believing that illness is a punishment of sin
- C. Refusing to accept blood products as part of treatment
- D. Stating that a child's birth defect is the result of the parents' sins
Correct answer: C
Rationale: The concept of a cultural taboo involves practices that are forbidden or avoided within a particular culture. Refusing to accept blood products as part of treatment is a clear example of a cultural taboo, as some cultures or religions prohibit the use of blood products for medical purposes. This practice is deeply rooted in cultural beliefs and traditions. The other choices provided do not directly relate to cultural taboos. Trying prayer before seeking medical help, believing illness is a punishment of sin, and stating that a child's birth defect is the result of parents' sins are beliefs or actions based on religious or personal beliefs, but they do not specifically represent cultural taboos.
2. The healthcare professional notices that a colleague is preparing to check the blood pressure of a patient who is obese by using a standard-sized blood pressure cuff. How would this likely affect the blood pressure reading?
- A. Yield a falsely low blood pressure
- B. Yield a falsely high blood pressure
- C. Be the same, regardless of cuff size
- D. Vary as a result of the technique of the person performing the assessment
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Using a cuff that is too narrow for an obese patient would likely yield a falsely high blood pressure reading. This occurs because the standard cuff is too small for the arm's circumference, requiring more pressure to compress the artery. A tight cuff can lead to inaccurate and elevated blood pressure readings. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because using an improperly sized cuff would not yield a falsely low blood pressure, the blood pressure reading does vary with cuff size, and the technique of the person performing the assessment is not the primary factor affecting the reading in this situation.
3. In the term 'Hemoglobin,' the suffix '-globin' means:
- A. Protein
- B. Iron
- C. Metal
- D. Blood
Correct answer: A
Rationale: The suffix '-globin' in the term 'Hemoglobin' specifically refers to a protein. Hemoglobin is a protein found in red blood cells that carries oxygen. Choice B, 'Iron,' is incorrect as iron is a mineral component of hemoglobin but not the meaning of the suffix. Choice C, 'Metal,' is too broad and not specific to the meaning of the suffix in this context. Choice D, 'Blood,' is incorrect as it refers to the overall term 'Hemoglobin' rather than the specific meaning of the suffix '-globin.' Therefore, the correct answer is A: 'Protein.'
4. Which complication of cardiac catheterization should the nurse monitor for in the initial 24 hours after the procedure?
- A. Angina at rest
- B. Thrombus formation
- C. Dizziness
- D. Falling blood pressure
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Thrombus formation is a critical complication of cardiac catheterization that the nurse should monitor for in the initial 24 hours after the procedure. A thrombus can form in the blood vessels, obstructing blood flow and potentially leading to serious consequences such as embolism or organ ischemia. While angina at rest, dizziness, and falling blood pressure are potential complications following cardiac catheterization, they are not typically associated with the immediate post-procedural period. Monitoring for thrombus formation is essential to ensure early detection and intervention, which can prevent serious complications.
5. A client has died approximately one hour ago. The nurse notes that the client's temperature has decreased in the last hour since their death. Which of the following processes explains this phenomenon?
- A. Rigor mortis
- B. Postmortem decomposition
- C. Algor mortis
- D. Livor mortis
Correct answer: C
Rationale: Algor mortis occurs after death when the body's circulation stops, and the client's temperature begins to fall. The client's temperature will drop by approximately 1.8 degrees per hour until it reaches room temperature. During algor mortis, the client's skin gradually loses its elasticity. Rigor mortis refers to the stiffening of the body after death due to chemical changes in the muscles. Postmortem decomposition is the breakdown of tissues after death. Livor mortis is the pooling of blood in the dependent parts of the body, causing a purple-red discoloration.
Similar Questions
Access More Features
NCLEX RN Basic
$69.99/ 30 days
- 5,000 Questions with answers
- Comprehensive NCLEX coverage
- 30 days access
NCLEX RN Premium
$149.99/ 90 days
- 5,000 Questions with answers
- Comprehensive NCLEX coverage
- 30 days access