which acronym would best describe the procedure for assessing a patient that appears unconscious

NCLEX-RN

Safe and Effective Care Environment NCLEX RN Questions

1. Which acronym would BEST describe the procedure for assessing a patient that appears unconscious?

A. WBC
B. QRS
C. XYZ
D. ABC

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D, 'ABC.' The ABC method stands for Airway, Breathing, Circulation. When encountering an unconscious patient, it is crucial to first ensure their Airway is clear by performing the 'head tilt, chin lift' maneuver. Next, assess Breathing by observing for chest rise and fall, listening for breath sounds, and feeling for airflow. Finally, check for Circulation by assessing for a pulse. Choices A, B, and C ('WBC,' 'QRS,' 'XYZ') are incorrect as they do not represent the standard approach to assessing an unconscious patient.

2. Which of the following medical terms means 'surgical fixation of the stomach'?

A. Abdominorrhaphy
B. Gastroplasty
C. Gastropexy
D. Abdominorrhexis

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is 'Gastropexy,' which means 'surgical fixation of the stomach.' This procedure involves surgically fixing the stomach in place. 'Abdominorrhaphy' refers to suturing or repairing the abdomen, not related to fixing the stomach. 'Gastroplasty' is a surgical reconstruction of the abdomen, not specifically related to fixing the stomach. 'Abdominorrhexis' refers to the rupture or tearing of the abdomen, not a surgical fixation procedure.

3. Specific gravity in urinalysis:

A. compares the concentration of urine to that of distilled water
B. is useless when the patient is dehydrated
C. can only be measured using a refractometer
D. None of the above

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Specific gravity in urinalysis measures the concentration of solutes in urine compared to that of distilled water. This comparison helps in assessing the kidney's ability to concentrate urine properly. It is a valuable test even in dehydrated patients as it provides insights into renal function. Specific gravity can be measured using various methods, including a refractometer or reagent strips. Normal specific gravity readings of human urine typically range from 1.005 to 1.030. Choice A is correct as it accurately describes the purpose of specific gravity in urinalysis. Choices B and C are incorrect as specific gravity remains relevant in dehydrated patients and can be measured using different techniques, not solely a refractometer.

4. A urine pregnancy test:

A. May be negative even if a blood pregnancy test is positive.
B. Is positive only during the first trimester of pregnancy.
C. Will be negative if the amount of LH isn't enough to meet or exceed the sensitivity of the testing device.
D. All of the above.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: A urine pregnancy test detects HCG in a pregnant woman's urine. Blood levels of HCG are usually higher and register earlier than HCG levels in the urine. Choice A is correct because urine pregnancy tests may be negative even if a blood pregnancy test is positive due to the differences in HCG levels in blood and urine. Choice B is incorrect because a urine pregnancy test can be positive throughout pregnancy, not just in the first trimester. Choice C is incorrect because LH (luteinizing hormone) is not the hormone detected in a pregnancy test; it is HCG (human chorionic gonadotropin). Choice D is incorrect because not all the statements provided are true.

5. A healthcare professional is employed at a district health department and must spend several hours each day sitting at a desk. Which principle of ergonomics will most likely help them to reduce the risk of injury or pain in this situation?

A. Adjust the chair height to keep the legs bent at the hips at a 90-degree angle
B. Maintain the position of the computer monitor just below eye level
C. Stand up and take a walk or stretch every 4 hours
D. Rest wrists on the edge of the desk while typing

Correct answer: A

Rationale: When sitting for prolonged periods, it is important to adjust the height of the chair so that the legs are bent at the hips at a 90-degree angle. This position helps to reduce pressure on the back, legs, and feet, promoting better posture and reducing muscle fatigue. Standing up and moving around at least once every hour is crucial to support circulation and prevent stiffness. Maintaining the position of the computer monitor just below eye level helps reduce strain on the neck and eyes. Resting wrists on the edge of the desk while typing can lead to wrist strain and discomfort, so it is not an ergonomic recommendation for prolonged desk work.