NCLEX-RN
NCLEX RN Exam Preview Answers
1. When is the best time for the nurse to attempt to elicit the Moro reflex during an infant examination?
- A. When the infant is sleeping
- B. At the end of the examination
- C. Before auscultation of the thorax
- D. At about the middle of the examination
Correct answer: B
Rationale: The Moro reflex, also known as the startle reflex, is best elicited at the end of the examination because it can cause the infant to cry. This reflex is triggered by a sudden change in position or loud noise, and it involves the infant's arms extending and then coming back together as if embracing. By eliciting this reflex at the end of the examination, the nurse can observe the infant's response and ensure that the examination is completed without unnecessary distress. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because the Moro reflex is typically elicited at the end of the examination to avoid disrupting the assessment process and causing unnecessary discomfort to the infant.
2. A client is complaining of pain that starts in the shoulder and travels down the length of his arm. This type of pain is referred to as:
- A. Referred pain
- B. Superficial pain
- C. Radiating pain
- D. Precipitating pain
Correct answer: C
Rationale: Radiating pain is the correct term for pain that originates in one part of the body and extends to other related areas. In this scenario, the pain starting in the shoulder and traveling down the arm describes radiating pain. Referred pain (Choice A) is pain felt at a site different from the actual origin of the pain. Superficial pain (Choice B) is pain that arises from the skin or tissues just beneath it. Precipitating pain (Choice D) refers to pain that is triggered by specific actions or events, not the characteristic described in the question.
3. A patient works with a nurse to establish outcomes. The nurse believes that one outcome suggested by the patient is not in the patient's best interest. What is the nurse's best action?
- A. Remain silent.
- B. Educate the patient that the outcome is not realistic.
- C. Explore with the patient possible consequences of the outcome.
- D. Formulate an appropriate outcome without the patient's input.
Correct answer: C
Rationale: In this scenario, the nurse should collaborate with the patient rather than impose personal opinions. While the nurse should respect the patient's autonomy, they also have a duty to provide guidance. By exploring possible consequences of the suggested outcome with the patient, the nurse can facilitate a discussion that helps the patient make an informed decision. This approach respects the patient's input while ensuring their well-being. Remaining silent (Choice A) may not address the issue, educating the patient unilaterally (Choice B) may be perceived as dismissive, and formulating an outcome without patient input (Choice D) disregards the patient's autonomy and preferences.
4. When cleansing the genital area during perineal care, the nurse should _____________.
- A. cleanse the penis with a circular motion starting from the base and moving toward the tip.
- B. replace the foreskin after it has been pushed back to cleanse an uncircumcised penis.
- C. cleanse the rectal area first and then clean the patient's genital area.
- D. use the same area on the washcloth for each washing and rinsing stroke for a female resident.
Correct answer: B
Rationale: During perineal care, when cleansing the genital area of an uncircumcised male patient, it is crucial to retract the foreskin to clean the area underneath. This helps in the removal of smegma, a substance that can accumulate and lead to bacterial growth and infection if not cleaned properly. The foreskin should then be replaced back to its original position after cleaning to ensure proper hygiene and prevent any potential complications. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because they do not address the specific care required for an uncircumcised penis, which involves retracting and replacing the foreskin.
5. When teaching a patient to use the three-point gait technique of crutch use:
- A. The injured leg moves ahead at the same time as both crutches.
- B. One crutch moves at a time and is then followed by the injured leg.
- C. Both crutches move ahead at the same time followed by both legs at the same time.
- D. None of the above are correct.
Correct answer: A
Rationale: The correct technique for a three-point gait involves the injured leg moving simultaneously with both crutches, followed by the uninjured leg. This gait pattern is utilized when the patient is unable to bear full weight on one of their legs. Choice A accurately describes the appropriate sequence of movements for the three-point gait technique. Choices B and C do not accurately reflect the correct pattern of movement during the three-point gait technique, making them incorrect. Choice D is incorrect as there is a correct option among the choices provided.
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