NCLEX-RN
NCLEX RN Exam Preview Answers
1. Which of the following descriptions best describes the function of the thyroid gland?
- A. The thyroid gland converts glucose into glycogen
- B. The thyroid gland secretes cortisol during times of stress
- C. The thyroid gland regulates body metabolism
- D. The thyroid gland affects skin pigmentation
Correct answer: C
Rationale: The thyroid gland is responsible for secreting thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3), which work to regulate the metabolism of the body's cells. The primary function of the thyroid gland is to control the body's metabolic rate, affecting processes such as heart rate, temperature regulation, and energy levels. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because the thyroid gland is not involved in converting glucose into glycogen, secreting cortisol, or affecting skin pigmentation. Instead, the primary role of the thyroid gland is to regulate the metabolism and energy balance in the body.
2. An Asian-American woman is experiencing diarrhea, which is believed to be "cold"? or "yin."? What should the nurse recognize that the woman may likely try to treat it?
- A. Foods that are "hot"? or "yang"?
- B. Readings and Eastern medicine meditations
- C. High doses of medicines believed to be "cold"?
- D. No treatment because diarrhea is an expected part of life.
Correct answer: A
Rationale: In this scenario, the Asian-American woman is believed to be experiencing diarrhea due to a "cold"? or "yin"? imbalance. According to the yin/yang theory, yang represents heat and yin represents cold. Therefore, to balance the cold nature of the diarrhea, the woman may try to treat it by consuming foods that are considered "hot"? or "yang"?. This aligns with the concept that cold foods are eaten with a hot illness, and hot foods are eaten with a cold illness. Choices B, C, and D do not align with the yin/yang theory and are not relevant to addressing the imbalance associated with the cold nature of the diarrhea.
3. A patient who is displaying the defense mechanism of Compensation would:
- A. Refuse to hear unwanted information.
- B. Transfer feelings of negativity to someone else.
- C. Overemphasize behaviors which accommodate for perceived weaknesses.
- D. Place blame on others for personal actions or mistakes.
Correct answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is 'Overemphasize behaviors which accommodate for perceived weaknesses.' Compensation involves overemphasizing or exaggerating a particular behavior or trait to make up for or cover up perceived weaknesses in oneself. This defense mechanism allows individuals to focus on their strengths rather than acknowledging their shortcomings. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect. Refusing to hear unwanted information relates more to denial, transferring feelings of negativity to someone else is projection, and placing blame on others is an example of the defense mechanism known as externalization.
4. What does preload refer to?
- A. The volume of blood entering the left side of the heart
- B. The volume of blood entering the right side of the heart
- C. The pressure in the venous system that the heart must overcome to pump the blood
- D. The pressure in the arterial system that the heart must overcome to pump the blood
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Preload refers to the volume of blood that enters the right side of the heart. This volume stretches the fibers in the heart before contraction. Preload is an essential factor in determining the force of ventricular contraction. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect. Choice A is incorrect because preload is specifically related to the volume of blood entering the right side of the heart. Choices C and D are incorrect as they refer to afterload, which is the pressure that the heart must overcome to pump blood out of the ventricles into the systemic or pulmonary circulation.
5. The nurse is planning care for a patient with a wrist restraint. How often should a restraint be removed, the area massaged, and the joints moved through their full range?
- A. Once a shift
- B. Once an hour
- C. Every 2 hours
- D. Every 4 hours
Correct answer: C
Rationale: Restraints should be removed every 2 hours to prevent complications. Moving the joints through their full range of motion helps prevent muscle shortening and contractures. Massaging the area promotes circulation and reduces the risk of pressure injuries. Removing restraints less frequently could lead to complications like decreased circulation and skin breakdown. Options A, B, and D are incorrect because they do not align with the standard practice of removing restraints every 2 hours to ensure patient safety and well-being.
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