NCLEX NCLEX-PN
Kaplan NCLEX Question of The Day
1. The nurse is caring for a client and wants to assess the neurologic function. Which of the following will give the most information?
- A. Level of consciousness
- B. Doll’s eye reflex
- C. Babinski reflex
- D. Reaction to painful stimuli
Correct answer: Level of consciousness
Rationale: The correct answer is 'Level of consciousness.' Assessing the client's level of consciousness provides crucial information about their neurologic function, including subtle changes in verbal ability, orientation, and responsiveness to commands. Doll’s eye reflex is a specific eye movement test used in neurologic assessments but may not provide as much comprehensive information as the client's overall consciousness level. The Babinski reflex is a test used to assess specific spinal cord function rather than overall neurologic function. Reaction to painful stimuli provides information about sensory function and pain response but may not offer as much insight into the client's neurologic status as assessing their level of consciousness.
2. A healthcare professional is screening patients for immunizations. Which of the following is not a contraindication for immunization?
- A. Seizures
- B. Fever lasting more than 3 days
- C. Malignancy within the past 3 months
- D. Illness lasting more than 6 months
Correct answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D, 'Illness lasting more than 6 months.' Chronic conditions lasting more than 6 months are not considered a contraindication for immunization. Choice A, 'Seizures,' can be a contraindication in certain situations, especially if linked to a specific vaccine component. Choice B, 'Fever lasting more than 3 days,' can be a temporary precaution but not a general contraindication. Choice C, 'Malignancy within the past 3 months,' is a contraindication due to the compromised immune system in cancer patients.
3. The patient is inquiring about the use of a PCA pump for pain management. Which statement by the patient indicates a need for additional education?
- A. “I will continue to report my pain score during assessments.”
- B. “I understand that there is a maximum dose per hour that I can receive regardless of how many times I press the button.”
- C. “I believe this new PCA pump will finally alleviate my back pain.”
- D. “I have more control over when and how much medication I receive.”
Correct answer: “I believe this new PCA pump will finally alleviate my back pain.”
Rationale: The correct answer is, “I believe this new PCA pump will finally alleviate my back pain.” This statement indicates a need for additional education as it reflects an unrealistic expectation regarding pain management. It is essential for the patient to understand that while a PCA pump can provide effective pain relief, it may not completely eliminate pain. Option A is correct as it demonstrates the patient's understanding of the importance of reporting pain scores for proper pain management. Option B is correct as it shows the patient's awareness of the maximum dose limits to prevent overdose. Option D is correct as it highlights the patient's understanding of the control they have over their medication administration.
4. A home health nurse is planning for her daily visits. Which client should the home health nurse visit first?
- A. A client with AIDS being treated with Foscarnet
- B. A client with a fractured femur in a long leg cast
- C. A client with laryngeal cancer with a laryngectomy
- D. A client with diabetic ulcers on the left foot
Correct answer: A client with laryngeal cancer with a laryngectomy
Rationale: The correct answer is the client with laryngeal cancer who had a laryngectomy. This client is at risk for airway obstruction due to the surgical procedure, making it a priority visit. Clients with AIDS (choice A), a fractured femur (choice B), and diabetic ulcers (choice D) do not have immediate life-threatening conditions that require urgent attention compared to a client with a recent laryngectomy.
5. A client has been taking alprazolam (Xanax) for four years to manage anxiety. The client reports taking 0.5 mg four times a day. Which statement indicates that the client understands the nurse’s teaching about discontinuing the medication?
- A. “I can drink alcohol now that I am decreasing my Xanax.”
- B. “I should not take another Xanax pill. Here is what is left of my last prescription.”
- C. “I should take three pills per day next week, then two pills for one week, then one pill for one week.”
- D. “I can expect to be sleepy for several days after stopping the medicine.”
Correct answer: “I should take three pills per day next week, then two pills for one week, then one pill for one week.”
Rationale: The correct answer is that the client should take three pills per day next week, then two pills for one week, and then one pill for one week. This statement indicates a gradual tapering schedule, which is crucial when discontinuing alprazolam (Xanax) to prevent withdrawal symptoms. Choice A is incorrect because alcohol should be avoided while tapering off benzodiazepines due to the increased risk of respiratory depression. Choice B is incorrect because abruptly stopping alprazolam can lead to withdrawal symptoms. Choice D is incorrect because while drowsiness can be a side effect of alprazolam, it is not the primary concern when discontinuing the medication; preventing withdrawal symptoms is the priority.
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