when teaching a patient to use the three point gait technique of crutch use

NCLEX-RN

NCLEX RN Predictor Exam

1. 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.

2. Which is the most effective action for controlling the spread of infection?

A. Thorough hand hygiene
B. Wearing gloves and masks when providing direct client care
C. Implementing appropriate isolation precautions
D. Administering broad-spectrum prophylactic antibiotics

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Thorough hand hygiene is the most effective action for controlling the spread of infection as hands are a common source of transmission. Regular and routine hand hygiene helps prevent the movement of potentially infective materials. Wearing gloves and masks is important when providing direct client care to protect both the caregiver and the patient, but it is not as effective as thorough hand hygiene in preventing overall infection spread. Implementing appropriate isolation precautions is necessary for clients with known communicable diseases, but it is not as universally effective in preventing the spread of various infections. Administering broad-spectrum prophylactic antibiotics is not an appropriate measure for controlling the spread of infection as routine use can lead to superinfection and the development of resistant organisms.

3. When dismissing a 5-year-old boy from the pediatrics unit, what type of seat belt restraint should the child wear as the parents drive the car to the front door of the hospital?

A. A 5-point restraint in the back seat, facing backward
B. A booster seat with a lap and shoulder belt in the back seat
C. A lap belt in the back seat
D. A lap and shoulder belt in the front seat

Correct answer: B

Rationale: A 5-year-old child riding in a car should use a restraint system for safety. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommend that children under 13 years should not ride in the front seat of a car due to safety concerns. For a 5-year-old child, a booster seat with a lap and shoulder belt in the back seat is the most appropriate choice. This setup ensures proper protection and restraint for the child's size and age. Choice A is incorrect because a 5-point restraint system facing backward is not suitable for a 5-year-old child in a car. Choice C is incorrect as a lap belt alone does not provide adequate protection for a child of this age. Choice D is incorrect as children should not be seated in the front seat, especially at this young age.

4. To properly read a meniscus,

A. hold the measuring device at eye level and read the bottom of the curve of the liquid level
B. hold the measuring device at eye level and read the top of the curve of the liquid level where the liquid adheres to the walls of the container.
C. hold the measuring device at table level and, looking down into the measuring device, read the bottom of the curve of the liquid level.
D. hold the measuring device at table level and, looking down into the measuring device, read the top of the curve of the liquid level.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: To properly read a meniscus, it is essential to hold the measuring device at eye level to avoid parallax error. Reading the bottom of the curve of the liquid level is correct because the meniscus is the concave or convex curve at the liquid's surface. Choice B is incorrect because reading the top of the curve where the liquid adheres to the walls of the container can lead to inaccurate measurements. Choices C and D are incorrect as they suggest holding the device at table level, which can introduce parallax error and result in an incorrect reading.

5. During a general survey of a patient, which finding is considered normal?

A. Body mass index (BMI) of 20.
B. When standing, the patient's base is narrow.
C. The patient appears older than their stated age.
D. Arm span (fingertip to fingertip) is greater than the height.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: A body mass index (BMI) of 20 is considered normal as the range for a normal BMI is between 19-24. When standing, a patient's base should be wide for stability and proper weight distribution. An older appearance than the stated age may indicate a history of chronic illness or chronic alcoholism. In a general survey, the patient's arm span (fingertip to fingertip) should approximately equal the patient's height. An arm span greater than the height may suggest Marfan syndrome. Therefore, the correct choice is a normal BMI of 20, which falls within the healthy range. Choices B, C, and D all describe abnormal findings that may indicate underlying health conditions or syndromes.