You practice vitals, infection control, documentation, and the first nursing action when a patient is unstable. Five of the 15 questions include the correct answer and rationale. The other ten keep answers in the study hub. Continue with the LPN exams exam guide or more LPN exams practice questions.
Five fundamentals questions with answers
Cover the key. Write the first action. Then open the rationale and name why the other choices fail.
Question 1
After morphine administration the nurse should closely observe for the following sign of side effect:
A. Nausea
B. Respiratory depression
C. Constipation
D. Restlessness
Show answer and rationale
Correct answer: B — Respiratory depression
The correct answer is B: Respiratory depression. Morphine is an opioid that can cause respiratory depression as a side effect by suppressing the respiratory drive in the brainstem. This can lead to decreased breathing rate and depth, potentially causing hypoxia and respiratory failure. It is crucial for the nurse to closely monitor the patient's respiratory status after morphine administration to prevent any complications.
Incorrect choices:
A: Nausea - Nausea is a common side effect of opioids like morphine, but it is not as critical or life-threatening as respiratory depression.
C: Constipation - Constipation is another common side effect of opioids due to decreased gastrointestinal motility, but it is not an immediate concern compared to respiratory depression.
D: Restlessness - Restlessness is not a common side effect of morphine and is not as serious as respiratory depression in terms of patient safety.
Question 2
Virgie with a positive Mantoux test result will be sent for a chest X-ray. The nurse is aware that which of the following reasons this is done?
A. To confirm the diagnosis
B. To determine if a repeat skin test is needed
C. To determine the extent of lesions
D. To determine if this is a primary or secondary infection
Show answer and rationale
Correct answer: C — To determine the extent of lesions
The correct answer is C: To determine the extent of lesions. A chest X-ray is done to evaluate the presence and extent of lesions in the lungs, which helps in assessing the severity of tuberculosis infection. This is important for determining the appropriate treatment plan and monitoring the progression of the disease.
Incorrect answers:
A: To confirm the diagnosis - Chest X-ray alone cannot confirm the diagnosis of tuberculosis, as other tests such as sputum culture or PCR are needed.
B: To determine if a repeat skin test is needed - Chest X-ray is not used to determine the need for a repeat skin test, as the decision for repeat testing is based on clinical judgment and guidelines.
D: To determine if this is a primary or secondary infection - Chest X-ray may provide some information, but the distinction between primary and secondary infection is usually based on clinical history and other diagnostic tests.
Question 3
An 81-year-old female client was diagnosed one year ago with Alzheimer's disease following a noticeable increase in confusion. She now possesses a durable power of attorney. Which of the following statements most accurately conveys an aspect of this legal arrangement?
A. The parameters of the arrangement must be revisited if the client's condition declines.
B. The arrangement was most likely initiated by court order.
C. The client appointed someone to take care of her affairs in the event that she becomes incompetent.
D. The family has control of logistical arrangements for the client but must gain court permission around financial affairs.
Show answer and rationale
Correct answer: C — The client appointed someone to take care of her affairs in the event that she becomes incompetent.
The correct answer is C. Usually, a power of attorney becomes invalid if the individual granting it becomes incompetent, except in the case of a durable power of attorney. A durable power of attorney allows competent individuals to appoint someone to make decisions on their behalf in the event that they become incompetent. This legal arrangement is recommended for individuals with conditions like Alzheimer's disease where competency decline can be anticipated. It is not initiated by the court, unlike guardianship. A durable power of attorney encompasses both logistical and financial affairs, providing authority to the appointed person to act on behalf of the individual should they become incapacitated. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because they do not accurately describe the purpose and nature of a durable power of attorney in the context of planning for incompetency due to conditions like Alzheimer's disease.
Question 4
It has been estimated that 20%, or 45 million, adults ages 18 or older in the United States have experienced a mental illness in the past year. Which nursing intervention is directed toward addressing the greatest barrier to successful treatment outcomes for these individuals?
A. Educating clients as to the importance of completing their treatment recommendations
B. Identifying resources where medications can be secured at reduced or no cost
C. Actively involving the client in the planning of his or her mental health care
D. Evaluating the client for compliance with his or her plan of care frequently
Show answer and rationale
Correct answer: A — Educating clients as to the importance of completing their treatment recommendations
The correct answer is A: Educating clients as to the importance of completing their treatment recommendations. This intervention is crucial because lack of understanding about the importance of completing treatment can lead to non-compliance, which is a significant barrier to successful treatment outcomes. By educating clients, nurses can empower them to take ownership of their health and adhere to their treatment plans.
Choice B is incorrect because while identifying resources for medications is important, it may not address the underlying issue of non-compliance. Choice C, involving the client in planning care, is important but may not directly address non-compliance. Choice D, evaluating compliance frequently, is necessary but does not address the root cause of non-compliance. Therefore, the most effective intervention is to educate clients about the importance of completing their treatment recommendations.
Question 5
Which of the following statements regarding patients with thoracic spine injuries is TRUE?
A. Log-rolling may be destabilizing to fractures from T12 to L1
B. Adequate immobilization can be accomplished with the scoop stretcher
C. Spinal cord injury below T10 usually spares bowel and bladder function
D. Hyperflexion fractures in the upper thoracic spine are inherently unstable
Show answer and rationale
Correct answer: A — Log-rolling may be destabilizing to fractures from T12 to L1
The correct answer is A: Log-rolling may be destabilizing to fractures from T12 to L1. Log-rolling involves moving a patient as a unit to prevent further spinal cord injury. In patients with thoracic spine injuries at T12 to L1, log-rolling can cause disruption or misalignment of the fractured vertebrae, leading to potential neurological damage or increased spinal instability. Therefore, avoiding log-rolling in these cases is crucial to prevent further harm.
Choice B is incorrect because the scoop stretcher may not provide adequate immobilization for thoracic spine injuries due to its limitations in maintaining proper spinal alignment. Choice C is incorrect as spinal cord injuries below T10 can affect bowel and bladder function due to the involvement of the sacral segments. Choice D is incorrect because hyperflexion fractures in the upper thoracic spine are generally considered stable, not inherently unstable.
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Question 6
A new employee asks the occupational health nurse about measures to prevent inhalation exposure of the substances. Which statement by the nurse will decrease the patients exposure risk to toxic substances?
A. Position a fan blowing on the toxic substances to prevent the substance from becoming stagnant in the air
B. Wear protective attire and devices when working with a toxic substance
C. Make sure that you keep your immunizations up to date to prevent respiratory diseases resulting from toxins
D. Always wear a disposable paper face mask when you are working with inhalable toxins
Correct answer:
Reducing inhalation exposure to toxic substances in the workplace hinges on effective personal protective equipment (PPE), such as respirators, hoods, or masks designed for specific hazards, as stated in option B. This approach directly blocks inhalation of airborne toxins, aligning with occupational safety standards like OSHA guidelines. Positioning a fan to blow on toxins disperses them, increasing exposure risk, not reducing it. Immunizations protect against infectious diseases, not chemical toxins, making them irrelevant here. A disposable paper mask offers minimal protection against inhalable toxins compared to fitted respirators, which filter specific particle sizes or vapors. The nurse's advice to wear appropriate protective attire and devices empowers the employee to minimize lung damage, such as pneumoconiosis, by creating a physical barrier, the most effective primary prevention strategy in this context.
The electrical stimulus of the cardiac cycle follows which sequence?
A. AV node → SA node → bundle of His
B. Bundle of His → AV node → SA node
C. SA node → AV node → bundle of His → bundle branches
D. AV node → SA node → bundle of His → bundle branches
Correct answer:
The correct sequence of the electrical stimulus in the cardiac cycle is SA node → AV node → bundle of His → bundle branches. The rationale is as follows:
1. The SA node initiates the electrical impulse in the heart.
2. The impulse travels to the AV node, which serves as a delay mechanism to ensure proper coordination of atrial and ventricular contractions.
3. From the AV node, the impulse then travels to the bundle of His, which conducts the impulse to the bundle branches.
4. Finally, the impulse is transmitted through the bundle branches to the Purkinje fibers, which then distribute the impulse throughout the ventricles for coordinated contraction.
Therefore, choice C is correct as it accurately represents the sequential pathway of the electrical stimulus in the cardiac cycle. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect as they do not follow the physiologically accurate sequence of the cardiac conduction system.
A nurse is teaching a patient with asthma about Azmacort, an inhaled corticosteroid. Which adverse effects should the nurse be sure to address in patient teaching?
A. Dyspnea and increased respiratory secretions
B. Nausea and vomiting
C. Cough and oral thrush
D. Fatigue and decreased level of consciousness
Correct answer:
Teaching about Azmacort (triamcinolone), an inhaled corticosteroid for asthma, must address cough and oral thrush as key adverse effects. Cough can occur from airway irritation by the inhalant, a local reaction manageable with technique adjustment (e.g., spacer use). Oral thrush (candidiasis) results from steroid deposition in the mouth, suppressing local immunity rinsing after use prevents this fungal overgrowth. Dyspnea and increased secretions aren't typical; corticosteroids reduce secretions long-term. Nausea and vomiting are systemic effects, rare with inhaled forms unless overdosed. Fatigue and decreased consciousness suggest severe systemic absorption (e.g., adrenal suppression), uncommon at standard doses. The nurse's focus on these effects demonstrating rinsing and monitoring for white patches ensures safe use, aligning with asthma pharmacotherapy education to maintain efficacy and minimize complications.
During auscultation of the lungs, the nurse expects decreased breath sounds to be heard in which situation?
A. When the bronchial tree is obstructed.
B. When adventitious sounds are present.
C. In conjunction with whispered pectoriloquy.
D. In conditions of consolidation, such as pneumonia.
Correct answer:
The correct answer is A: When the bronchial tree is obstructed. Decreased breath sounds are expected in situations where airflow is obstructed, leading to diminished sound transmission. When there is an obstruction in the bronchial tree, such as in asthma or bronchitis, breath sounds become decreased due to the restricted airflow.
The other choices are incorrect because:
B: When adventitious sounds are present - Adventitious sounds like crackles or wheezes indicate abnormal lung sounds but do not necessarily result in decreased breath sounds.
C: In conjunction with whispered pectoriloquy - Whispered pectoriloquy is a finding where whispering is heard clearly through the stethoscope, indicating lung consolidation rather than decreased breath sounds.
D: In conditions of consolidation, such as pneumonia - Consolidation leads to increased breath sounds due to the denser lung tissue, not decreased breath sounds.
Which one of the following statements regarding muscle contraction and relaxation is correct?
A. It involves movement of Xn... (incomplete)
B. The thickness of the cell layer helps in movement
C. The lining of the vessels inside help in movement
D. The contraction and relaxation of these cells result in movement
Correct answer:
Muscle contraction and relaxation drive movement through a coordinated process. Contraction occurs when nerve impulses trigger calcium release, enabling myosin heads to bind actin and pull filaments together, shortening the muscle and moving attached structures, like bones in skeletal muscle. Relaxation follows when calcium is pumped back into the sarcoplasmic reticulum, halting myosin-actin interaction, allowing the muscle to lengthen and rest. The incomplete option likely misrepresents a molecular detail (e.g., 'Xn' for ions or proteins), but lacks clarity. Cell layer thickness affects force, not the process itself. Vessel linings support circulation, not contraction mechanics. The contraction-relaxation cycle, powered by ATP and regulated by calcium, is the correct mechanism, universally applicable to skeletal, cardiac, and smooth muscle functions, making it the accurate statement despite the truncated option.
A client has major fecal incontinence and reports irritation in the perianal area. Which of the following actions should the nurse take first?
A. Apply a fecal collection system
B. Apply a barrier cream
C. Cleanse and dry the area
D. Check the client's perineum
Correct answer:
When a client with major fecal incontinence reports irritation in the perianal area, the nurse's initial action should be to assess the client's perineum to gather more information. By checking the perineum, the nurse can identify the extent and nature of the irritation, allowing for appropriate interventions to be initiated. This assessment is crucial in developing a comprehensive care plan and addressing the client's immediate needs effectively. Applying the nursing process priority-setting framework helps in planning care and prioritizing nursing actions, making assessment the initial step in this scenario. Applying a fecal collection system (choice A) would be premature without assessing the perineal area first. Similarly, applying a barrier cream (choice B) or cleansing and drying the area (choice C) should follow the assessment to ensure appropriate interventions are chosen based on the assessment findings.
A registered nurse arrives at work and is told to 'float' to the ICU for the day because the ICU is understaffed and needs an additional nurse to care for the clients. The nurse has never worked in the ICU. Which of the following is the most appropriate nursing action?
A. Call the nursing supervisor
B. Call the hospital lawyer
C. Report to the ICU and identify tasks that can be safely performed
D. Refuse to float in the ICU
Correct answer:
When assigned to float to an unfamiliar unit like the ICU, the nurse must balance patient safety with professional responsibility. Reporting to the ICU and identifying tasks that can be safely performed is the most appropriate action, as it ensures the nurse contributes within their competence while seeking support for unfamiliar tasks. Calling the nursing supervisor may be a follow-up step if issues arise, but it delays immediate action. Calling the hospital lawyer is excessive and irrelevant to the situation, as no legal violation has occurred. Refusing to float may breach hospital policy and abandon patient care needs, unless the nurse's incompetence poses an immediate risk. By reporting and clarifying their skill set, the nurse adheres to ethical standards, protects patient safety, and collaborates with the ICU team to manage care effectively, aligning with the principle of 'do no harm' while fulfilling duty.
A 67-year-old male client had some serum tests performed during his annual examination. The nurse reviews his results, as follows: testosterone: 680 ng/dL; prostate-specific antigen: 10 ng/mL; prolactin: 5 ng/mL. What action by the nurse is best?
A. Assess for possible galactorrhea with breast discharge.
B. Note the possibility of a testicular tumor.
C. Communicate to the provider that results were normal
D. Prepare the client for further diagnostic testing
Correct answer:
The correct answer is D: Prepare the client for further diagnostic testing. A testosterone level of 680 ng/dL is high for a 67-year-old male, which could indicate an underlying medical condition. A prostate-specific antigen level of 10 ng/mL is elevated and could suggest prostate issues. Prolactin level of 5 ng/mL is within normal range but still needs further evaluation due to the other abnormal results. Therefore, preparing the client for further diagnostic testing is crucial to investigate the potential underlying health concerns.
Incorrect options:
A: Assess for possible galactorrhea with breast discharge - Irrelevant as galactorrhea is not indicated by the given results.
B: Note the possibility of a testicular tumor - Testosterone level elevation is more indicative of non-testicular issues.
C: Communicate to the provider that results were normal - Results are not normal, warranting further evaluation.
During the cardiac auscultation, the nurse hears a sound immediately occurring after the S2 at the second left intercostal space. To further assess this sound, what should the nurse do?
A. Have the patient turn to the left side while the nurse listens with the bell of the stethoscope.
B. Ask the patient to hold his or her breath while the nurse listens again.
C. No further assessment is needed because the nurse knows this sound is an S3.
D. Watch the patient's respirations while listening for the effect on the sound.
Correct answer:
The correct answer is D because watching the patient's respirations while listening for the effect on the sound can help differentiate between an S3 and an opening snap or ejection sound. Observing how the sound changes with the respiratory cycle can provide valuable information about the origin and nature of the sound.
Choice A is incorrect because having the patient turn to the left side with the bell of the stethoscope is typically done to enhance the detection of a mitral murmur, not to assess a sound immediately after S2.
Choice B is incorrect because asking the patient to hold their breath is more relevant in assessing for a pericardial friction rub, not in differentiating between heart sounds.
Choice C is incorrect because assuming the sound is an S3 without further assessment can lead to a misdiagnosis. It is essential to confirm the nature of the sound through appropriate assessment techniques.
A. The patient will feel less nauseated in 24 hours.'
B. The patient will eat the right amount of food daily.'
C. The patient will identify all the high-salt food from a prepared list by discharge.'
D. The patient will have enough sleep.'
Correct answer:
A well-written expected outcome follows the SMART criteria: specific, measurable, achievable, realistic, and time-bound. 'The patient will identify all the high-salt food from a prepared list by discharge' meets these standards: it specifies the action (identifying high-salt foods), provides a measurable method (from a prepared list), and sets a clear timeline (by discharge), ensuring it's achievable and realistic for patient education. In contrast, 'The patient will feel less nauseated in 24 hours' is vague and subjective, lacking a measurable indicator. 'The patient will eat the right amount of food daily' fails to define 'right amount,' making it unmeasurable and unspecific. 'The patient will have enough sleep' is similarly imprecise, with no clear metric or timeframe. The correctly written outcome supports effective care planning by providing a concrete, evaluable goal, critical for tracking patient progress.
LPN exams fundamentals practice questions, set 41 for nursing students in the United States. Fifteen items. Five include answers and rationales in American English.
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The first five questions already include the rationale. Start full practice to unlock the remaining keys, missed-question review, and the rest of the bank.
Keep going past these 15 questions
Missed-question review, longer banks, and the rest of 20,000+ nursing practice questions open when you start studying.