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NCLEX RN Exam Preview Answers
1. The healthcare provider is preparing to use an otoscope for an examination. Which statement is true regarding the otoscope?
- A. Often used to direct light into the sinuses
- B. Used to examine the structures of the internal ear
- C. Uses a short, broad speculum to help visualize the ear
- D. Directs light into the ear canal and onto the tympanic membrane
Correct answer: Directs light into the ear canal and onto the tympanic membrane
Rationale: The otoscope is a tool used to examine the ear canal and tympanic membrane, which separates the external and middle ear. It is not intended to direct light into the sinuses or examine the internal structures of the ear. The otoscope typically uses a short, narrow speculum to aid in visualizing the ear canal and tympanic membrane, not a short, broad speculum as mentioned in choice C.
2. The major difference between a grand mal and petit mal seizure is that a person with a grand mal seizure will have _______________ and the person with a petit mal seizure will not.
- A. convulsive movements
- B. sleep apnea
- C. atonic movements
- D. flaccidity
Correct answer: convulsive movements
Rationale: The major difference between a grand mal and petit mal seizure is the presence or absence of convulsive movements. Grand mal seizures are characterized by convulsive movements, including jerking of limbs and loss of consciousness. In contrast, petit mal seizures, also known as absence seizures, typically involve brief episodes of staring or eye blinking without convulsive movements. Therefore, choice A, 'convulsive movements,' is the correct answer. Choices B, 'sleep apnea,' and D, 'flaccidity,' are incorrect as they are not associated with the characteristics of grand mal or petit mal seizures. Choice C, 'atonic movements,' is also incorrect as petit mal seizures do not involve atonic movements, but rather absence behaviors such as staring spells.
3. According to the CDC, which of the following age groups is most likely to meet the criteria for major depression?
- A. 18-24 years
- B. 25-34 years
- C. 35-44 years
- D. 45-64 years
Correct answer: D: 45-64 years
Rationale: According to the CDC, individuals aged 45-64 years are most likely to meet the criteria for major depression. While patients in the 18-24 year age group are more likely to report symptoms of depression, when it comes to major depression, the prevalence is higher in the 45-64 year age group. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect because the CDC indicates that major depression is most prevalent in the 45-64 year age group.
4. When placing a patient in the AP position for an X-ray, what position would the patient be in?
- A. Facing the X-ray film.
- B. Right side against the X-ray film.
- C. Left side against the X-ray film.
- D. Facing away from the X-ray film
Correct answer: D
Rationale: The AP position stands for Anteroposterior Projection. When a patient is in the AP position for an X-ray, they are facing away from the X-ray film. This positioning allows for a clear view of the structures being imaged from front to back. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect because the patient is not facing or positioned against the X-ray film in the AP position, but rather facing away from it to capture the necessary diagnostic information.
5. A patient is admitted to the emergency department complaining of sudden onset shortness of breath and is diagnosed with a possible pulmonary embolus. How should the nurse prepare the patient for diagnostic testing to confirm the diagnosis?
- A. Start an IV so contrast media may be given
- B. Ensure that the patient has been NPO for at least 6 hours.
- C. Inform radiology that a radioactive glucose preparation is needed
- D. Instruct the patient to undress to the waist and remove any metal objects
Correct answer: Start an IV so contrast media may be given
Rationale: For diagnosing pulmonary emboli, spiral computed tomography (CT) scans are commonly used, and contrast media may be given intravenously (IV) during the scan to enhance visualization of blood vessels. Chest x-rays are not typically diagnostic for pulmonary embolism. When preparing for a chest x-ray, the patient needs to undress and remove any metal objects. Bronchoscopy is used for examining the bronchial tree, not for assessing vascular changes, and the patient should be NPO 6 to 12 hours before the procedure. Positron emission tomography (PET) scans are primarily used to detect malignancies, and a radioactive glucose preparation is utilized for this purpose.
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