NCLEX-RN
Safe and Effective Care Environment NCLEX RN Questions
1. When would chest thrusts be performed in an emergency situation?
- A. When performing CPR to initiate cardiovascular circulation.
- B. When assessing responsiveness of an unconscious patient.
- C. When assisting a pregnant woman who is choking.
- D. None of the above examples indicate the need for chest thrusts.
Correct answer: C
Rationale: In the scenario of an emergency where a pregnant woman is choking, chest thrusts are performed to clear the airway obstruction. This technique is used instead of abdominal thrusts to avoid potential harm to the fetus. While chest thrusts are not as effective as abdominal thrusts in clearing obstructions, they are the preferred method in this specific situation. Choices A and B are incorrect as chest thrusts are not typically performed during CPR to initiate cardiovascular circulation or when assessing responsiveness of an unconscious patient. Choice D is incorrect as chest thrusts are indeed warranted when assisting a pregnant woman who is choking.
2. 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.
3. A 75-year-old man with a history of hypertension was recently changed to a new antihypertensive drug. He reports feeling dizzy at times. How would the nurse evaluate his blood pressure?
- A. Blood pressure and pulse should be recorded in the supine, sitting, and standing positions.
- B. The patient should be directed to walk around the room and his blood pressure assessed after this activity.
- C. Blood pressure and pulse are assessed at the beginning and at the end of the examination.
- D. Blood pressure is taken on the right arm and then 5 minutes later on the left arm.
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Orthostatic vital signs should be taken when the person is hypertensive or is taking antihypertensive medications, when the person reports fainting or syncope, or when volume depletion is suspected. The blood pressure and pulse readings are recorded in the supine, sitting, and standing positions.
4. Which theory reflects the view that illness is caused by an imbalance or disharmony in the forces of nature?
- A. Germ theory
- B. Naturalistic theory
- C. Magicoreligious theory
- D. Biomedical or scientific theory
Correct answer: B
Rationale: The naturalistic theory posits that illness results from an imbalance or disharmony in the forces of nature. According to this theory, maintaining a natural balance or harmony is essential to prevent illness. Conversely, germ theory and biomedical or scientific theory attribute illness to microorganisms, while magicoreligious theory attributes illness to supernatural forces such as deities or spirits. Therefore, the most appropriate theory reflecting the belief that illness arises from a disruption in natural forces is the naturalistic theory.
5. Should standard precautions be used when providing post mortem care to a patient who has died from a massive heart attack and had no other diseases, illnesses, or infections?
- A. Yes, because the patient must be treated with respect
- B. Yes, you still must use standard precautions
- C. No, because the patient had no infections
- D. No, because this is not respectful
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Yes, you must still use standard precautions when providing post mortem care, regardless of the patient's medical history. Standard precautions are essential to prevent the transmission of potential infectious agents and protect both the healthcare provider and others from exposure. Even if the patient did not have known infections, it is crucial to maintain a safe environment and uphold professional standards of care. Choice A is incorrect as using standard precautions is primarily for infection control rather than solely for respect. Choices C and D are incorrect as the absence of infections or the notion of respect does not negate the need for standard precautions in post mortem care.
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