NCLEX-RN
NCLEX Psychosocial Questions
1. While explaining an illness to a 10-year-old, what should the nurse keep in mind about cognitive development at this age?
- A. They are able to make simple associations of ideas.
- B. They are able to think logically in organizing facts.
- C. Interpretation of events originates from their own perspective.
- D. Conclusions are based on previous experiences.
Correct answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is that 10-year-olds are able to think logically in organizing facts. At this age, children are in the concrete operational stage according to Piaget's theory of cognitive development. In this stage, they can understand and organize information logically and can manipulate objects mentally. Choice A is incorrect because simple associations of ideas are more characteristic of earlier developmental stages. Choice C is incorrect as it refers to egocentrism, which is more typical of the preoperational stage. Choice D is incorrect as basing conclusions on previous experiences is a broader concept that applies across different ages and stages of development, rather than being specific to 10-year-olds in the concrete operational stage.
2. The parents of a child often try to persuade their preschooler to touch their pet dog to reduce the child's fear of dogs. Instead, the child's fears and anxiety increase. Which advice would the nurse suggest to help overcome their child's fear?
- A. Ask the child to touch the dog's back gently.
- B. Keep the child away from dogs for a few years.
- C. Let the child watch other children playing with dogs.
- D. Bring in a pet cat to familiarize the child with animals.
Correct answer: C
Rationale: To help the child overcome their fear of dogs, the nurse should recommend letting the child watch other children playing with dogs. This approach allows the child to observe interactions with dogs in a safe environment, gradually building comfort and familiarity. Encouraging the child to touch the dog's back gently may increase fear and anxiety, as it could be overwhelming for the child. Keeping the child away from dogs for a few years does not address the fear directly and may not help the child overcome it. Bringing in a pet cat, while introducing the child to animals, does not specifically target the fear of dogs and may not effectively reduce the fear and anxiety associated with dogs.
3. Which of the following interventions is essential when working with a client who has antisocial personality disorder?
- A. Monitor intake and output
- B. Set strict limits on behavior
- C. Provide diversion for the client
- D. Limit visits from family or friends
Correct answer: B
Rationale: When working with a client diagnosed with antisocial personality disorder, it is crucial to set strict limits on their behavior. This disorder is characterized by manipulative behavior, impulsivity, and deceitfulness. By setting strict limits, the nurse can establish boundaries to prevent the client from manipulating others or engaging in disruptive behaviors. Monitoring intake and output (Choice A) is not directly related to managing antisocial personality disorder. Providing diversion (Choice C) or limiting visits from family or friends (Choice D) may not address the core issues associated with this disorder, such as manipulation and boundary violations.
4. A client is undergoing treatment for alcoholism. Twelve hours after their last drink, they develop tremors, increased heart rate, hallucinations, and seizures. Which stage of withdrawal is this client experiencing?
- A. Stage 1
- B. Stage 2
- C. Stage 3
- D. Stage 4
Correct answer: C
Rationale: In alcohol withdrawal, stage 3 typically begins about 12-48 hours after the last drink. It includes symptoms from stages 1 and 2 like tremors, tachycardia, mild hallucinations, hyperactivity, and confusion. By stage 3, severe hallucinations and seizures can occur. Choice A, stage 1, is too early for the described symptoms. Stage 2, as described, is also too early as it typically occurs within 6-12 hours. Stage 4 is not a recognized stage in alcohol withdrawal protocols.
5. After undergoing dilation and curettage following an early miscarriage, a client is crying. Which response would the nurse give?
- A. ''This must be a very difficult experience for you to deal with.''
- B. 'You'll have other children to take the place of the child you lost.''
- C. 'Of course you're sad now, but at least you know you can get pregnant.''
- D. 'I know how you feel, but when a woman miscarries, it's usually for the best.''
Correct answer: A
Rationale: The correct response acknowledges the client's grief without judgment and provides validation. Choice B is inappropriate as it suggests replacing the lost child with other children, which is insensitive and dismissive of the client's current loss. Choice C minimizes the client's feelings by focusing on the ability to get pregnant rather than addressing the emotional impact of the miscarriage. Choice D is dismissive and patronizing, suggesting that the miscarriage was for the best, which can be hurtful and diminish the client's grief.
Similar Questions
Access More Features
NCLEX RN Basic
$69.99/ 30 days
- 5,000 Questions with answers
- Comprehensive NCLEX coverage
- 30 days access
NCLEX RN Premium
$149.99/ 90 days
- 5,000 Questions with answers
- Comprehensive NCLEX coverage
- 30 days access