NCLEX-RN
NCLEX Psychosocial Questions
1. The nurse has just admitted a client with severe depression. From which focus should the nurse identify a priority nursing diagnosis?
- A. Nutrition
- B. Elimination
- C. Activity
- D. Safety
Correct answer: D
Rationale: In caring for a client with severe depression, ensuring safety is a top priority. Suicide prevention measures must be incorporated into the care plan as individuals with depression are at increased risk. While nutrition, elimination, and activity are important aspects of care, safety takes precedence due to the critical need to prevent harm or self-harm in depressed individuals.
2. Which response would the nurse make to a client with schizophrenia who claims to be Joan of Arc about to be burned at the stake?
- A. ''Tell me more about being Joan of Arc.''
- B. 'We both know that you're not Joan of Arc.''
- C. ''It seems like the world is a pretty scary place for you.''
- D. 'You're safe here, because we won't let you be burned.''
Correct answer: C
Rationale: The nurse would say, ''It seems like the world is a pretty scary place for you.'' This response allows the nurse to understand the symbolism, reflect on and acknowledge the client's feelings, and help preserve the client's integrity. The statement, ''Tell me more about being Joan of Arc,'' validates the client's delusion and does not test reality. The statement, ''We both know that you're not Joan of Arc,'' rejects the client's feelings and does not address the client's fears of being harmed; clients cannot be argued out of delusions. The statement, ''You're safe here, because we won't let you be burned,'' is false reassurance; the nurse is agreeing with the client's false perceptions of reality, which is nontherapeutic.
3. The client with cholecystitis is being instructed about dietary choices. Which meal best meets the dietary needs of this client?
- A. Steak, baked beans, and a salad
- B. Broiled fish, green beans, and an apple
- C. Pork chops, macaroni and cheese, and grapes
- D. Avocado salad, milk, and angel food cake
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Clients with cholecystitis, which is inflammation of the gallbladder, should follow a low-fat diet to reduce symptoms. Broiled fish, green beans, and an apple (Option B) is the most suitable choice as it is low in fat. Steak, baked beans, and a salad (Option A) provide a high amount of fat and protein, which may exacerbate symptoms of cholecystitis. Pork chops, macaroni and cheese, and grapes (Option C) and avocado salad, milk, and angel food cake (Option D) contain high-fat foods that are not recommended for individuals with cholecystitis. Therefore, Option B is the most appropriate choice for a client with cholecystitis.
4. The family of a child with cerebral palsy (CP) is at risk for difficult parenting issues. Which basis would the nurse conclude as the probable cause for this difficulty?
- A. Lack of social support
- B. Unrealistic expectations
- C. Loss of the expected healthy child
- D. Having a child with cognitive impairment
Correct answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is 'Loss of the expected healthy child.' Parents of a child with cerebral palsy often grieve the loss of the healthy child they expected, mourning what could have been and what may never be. While lack of social support can contribute to parenting difficulties, it is not the primary basis in this case. Unrealistic expectations may play a role for some parents, but not all. Additionally, it is important to note that not all children with cerebral palsy experience cognitive impairment; around 30% to 50% of children with cerebral palsy have cognitive challenges.
5. After a mastectomy or a hysterectomy, a client may feel incomplete as a woman. Which statement would alert the nurse to this feeling in a client who has undergone a total hysterectomy?
- A. "I don't know who can help me during my recovery."
- B. "I feel washed out; there isn't much left."
- C. "I'm scared about the pain in recovery."
- D. "I can't wait to get home; I so want to see my grandchild."
Correct answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is "I feel washed out; there isn't much left." This statement suggests a feeling of emptiness or incompleteness after the surgical procedure. Concern about who can assist during recovery, fear of pain, or excitement to go home and see a grandchild are not indicative of feeling incomplete as a woman after a hysterectomy. These other statements focus on practical concerns, physical discomfort, and positive emotions, respectively.
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