NCLEX-RN
NCLEX Psychosocial Questions
1. While receiving a preoperative enema, a client starts to cry and says, 'I'm sorry you have to do this messy thing for me.' Which is the nurse's best response?
- A. I don't mind it.'
- B. 'You seem upset.'
- C. 'This is part of my job.'
- D. 'Nurses get used to this.'
Correct answer: B
Rationale: The nurse's best response in this situation is to acknowledge the client's emotional state, as it shows empathy and encourages further expression of feelings. Choice A, 'I don't mind it,' dismisses the client's emotions and does not address the underlying issue. Choice C, 'This is part of my job,' focuses on the task rather than the client's emotional needs. Choice D, 'Nurses get used to this,' minimizes the client's feelings and lacks empathy. By selecting choice B, 'You seem upset,' the nurse acknowledges the client's distress and opens the door for further communication and support.
2. The nurse selects the best site for insertion of an IV catheter in the client's right arm. Which documentation should the nurse use to identify the placement of the IV access?
- A. Left brachial vein
- B. Right cephalic vein
- C. Dorsal side of the right wrist
- D. Right upper extremity
Correct answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is the right cephalic vein. The cephalic vein is a large and superficial vein commonly used for IV access. Documenting the specific anatomic name of the vein used for IV access, such as the cephalic vein, is essential for accurate medical records. Option A, the left brachial vein, is incorrect as the brachial vein is too deep to be accessed for IV infusion. Option C, the dorsal side of the right wrist, is not a recommended IV access site due to fragile veins and potential pain for the patient. Option D, right upper extremity, is too broad and lacks the specificity necessary for precise documentation of the IV access site.
3. What initial treatment would the nurse expect for a preschool-aged child experiencing severe fear of the dark?
- A. Prescription medication
- B. Mental health counseling
- C. Cognitive behavioral therapy
- D. Repetition of brave statements
Correct answer: D
Rationale: Repetition of brave statements is an effective initial treatment for preschool-aged children with severe fear of the dark. This technique involves encouraging the child to repeat positive and reassuring statements to themselves to build confidence and reduce fear. Prescription medication is not typically the first-line approach for this type of fear in children due to potential side effects and safety concerns. Mental health counseling and cognitive behavioral therapy may be considered if the fear persists or is severe, but they are usually not the initial treatments for preschool-aged children with fear of the dark.
4. What step should be taken when administering ear drops to an adult client?
- A. Place the client in a side-lying position.
- B. Hold the dropper 1 cm above the ear canal.
- C. Place a cotton ball into the outermost canal.
- D. Pull the auricle down and back.
Correct answer: A
Rationale: The correct step when administering ear drops to an adult client is to place the client in a side-lying position (A). This position allows for easier administration of the drops and helps prevent spillage. The dropper should be held approximately 1 cm (� inch) above the ear canal (B) to ensure accurate delivery of the medication. Placing a cotton ball into the outermost canal (C) is unnecessary and may interfere with the absorption of the ear drops. Pulling the auricle down and back (D) is a technique used for children younger than 3 years old to straighten the ear canal, but it is not necessary for adults and may cause discomfort.
5. A 28-month-old toddler is admitted to the pediatric unit with suspected meningitis. A few hours later the mother tells the nurse, 'I have to leave now, but whenever I try to go, my child gets upset, and then I start to cry.' Which is the best action by the nurse?
- A. Walking the mother to the elevator
- B. Encouraging the mother to spend the night
- C. Staying with the child while the mother leaves
- D. Telling the mother to wait until the child falls asleep
Correct answer: C
Rationale: The best action for the nurse in this situation is to stay with the child while the mother leaves. By doing so, the nurse can provide comfort and reassurance to both the child and the mother. This approach acknowledges the mother's need to leave while ensuring the child is not left alone and is supported during the separation. Walking the mother to the elevator does not address the child's emotional needs and may not provide adequate support. Encouraging the mother to spend the night is not necessary and may not be feasible for her. Telling the mother to wait until the child falls asleep is not recommended as it may create a sense of dishonesty and uncertainty for the child, who should be aware of the mother's departure and reassured that she will return.
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