the duodenum

NCLEX-RN

NCLEX RN Actual Exam Test Bank

1. Where is the duodenum located in the digestive system?

A. It is the first part of the small intestine, located immediately after the stomach.
B. It is the section of the digestive system where the gall bladder delivers bile.
C. It is the section of the small intestine where the pancreas delivers digestive juices.
D. None of the above.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The duodenum is the first part of the small intestine, located immediately after the stomach. It is where the majority of digestion takes place in the gut. The pancreas delivers digestive juices containing amylase and lipase, while the gall bladder delivers bile to aid in the digestion of fats. Choice A incorrectly states that the duodenum is the third section of the small intestine, which is inaccurate. Choice B incorrectly associates the duodenum with the gall bladder, which is not where the duodenum is located. Choice C incorrectly states that the duodenum is where the pancreas delivers digestive juices, which is partly correct but not the main function of the duodenum. Therefore, the correct answer is 'None of the above' as none of the choices accurately describe the location or functions of the duodenum.

2. When a patient refuses to believe a terminal diagnosis, they are exhibiting:

A. Regression
B. Mourning
C. Denial
D. Rationalization

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Denial is a defense mechanism where a patient rejects a reality that is too painful or difficult to accept. In the context of a terminal diagnosis, the patient may refuse to believe it in order to avoid facing the harsh truth. Regression (choice A) involves reverting to earlier, more childlike behaviors and is not applicable in this scenario. Mourning (choice B) is the process of grieving a loss, which typically occurs after acceptance of the diagnosis. Rationalization (choice D) is creating logical explanations to justify unacceptable behaviors, which is not the case when a patient denies a terminal diagnosis.

3. A client with expressive aphasia is pointing wildly at the bath water but unable to speak. Which response from the nurse is most appropriate?

A. Is something wrong with the bath water?
B. Just calm down, we'll finish your bath soon.
C. Are you trying to tell me something?
D. Shall I turn on the television?

Correct answer: A

Rationale: A client with expressive aphasia faces difficulty expressing themselves verbally but can understand others. In this scenario, the client's gestures indicate a communication attempt. The nurse's best response is to directly address the potential issue the client is indicating, which is the bath water. Option A acknowledges the client's non-verbal communication and seeks to address their concern. Choices B, C, and D do not directly address the client's attempt to communicate about the bath water, which is the focal point of the interaction.

4. The hospital has sounded the call for a disaster drill on the evening shift. Which of these clients would the nurse prioritize first on the list to be discharged in order to make a room available for a new admission?

A. A middle-aged client with a history of being ventilator dependent for over seven (7) years and admitted with bacterial pneumonia five days ago.
B. A young adult with diabetes mellitus Type 2 for over ten (10) years and admitted with antibiotic-induced diarrhea 24 hours ago.
C. An elderly client with a history of hypertension, hypercholesterolemia, and lupus, and was admitted with Stevens-Johnson syndrome that morning.
D. An adolescent with a positive HIV test and admitted for acute cellulitis of the lower leg 48 hours ago.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The best candidate for discharge during a need for emergency room availability is a stable patient with a chronic condition who is familiar with their care. In this scenario, the middle-aged client in option A, who has been ventilator dependent for over seven years and admitted with bacterial pneumonia five days ago, is most suitable for discharge. This client is likely stable and can continue medication therapy at home, making them the most appropriate choice for discharge at this time. Choice B should not be the priority for discharge as the young adult with diabetes mellitus Type 2 admitted with antibiotic-induced diarrhea 24 hours ago may need further monitoring and management of their condition. Choice C, the elderly client with multiple comorbidities and admitted with Stevens-Johnson syndrome on the same day, is not a suitable candidate for immediate discharge as they may require ongoing medical attention and observation. Choice D, the adolescent with a positive HIV test and admitted for acute cellulitis of the lower leg 48 hours ago, should not be discharged first as acute cellulitis may require continued treatment and monitoring, especially in the context of a positive HIV status.

5. A client is being assisted with ambulation in the hallway using a gait belt when they become dizzy and start to faint. What is the first action the nurse should take?

A. Stand behind the client and prepare to catch them if they fall
B. Assist the client to sit in the nearest chair or slide down along a wall
C. Grasp the client under the arms and pull them upward
D. Call for help from nearby staff

Correct answer: A

Rationale: If a client becomes dizzy and starts to faint while being assisted with ambulation, the nurse's first action should be to assist the client into a sitting position to prevent or reduce the impact of a fall. This can be done by guiding the client to sit in the nearest chair or sliding down along a wall for support. Option A is incorrect because standing behind the client may not prevent a fall and could potentially lead to injury. Option C is incorrect as pulling the client upward may worsen the situation. Option D, calling for help, is not the first action to take when the client is at risk of falling.