RN exams clinical judgment practice questions, set 14
RN exams · clinical judgment
RN exams clinical judgment practice questionsset 14
You notice cues, form a hypothesis, act, and evaluate — the same loop Next Generation items reward. Five of the 15 questions include the correct answer and rationale. The other ten keep answers in the study hub. Continue with the RN exams exam guide or more RN exams practice questions.
Five clinical judgment questions with answers
Cover the key. Write the first action. Then open the rationale and name why the other choices fail.
Question 1
A woman is sitting in a corner of the clinical waiting room, crying audibly. The nurse asks, “What’s wrong? Can I help?†The woman responds, “They just told me I have a positive mammogram and I need to see my doctor for follow-up tests. I know I’m going to die of cancer. How can I tell my family?†Which of the following information does the nurse need to know in order to help the woman cope with this finding?
A. The negative predictive value of mammography
B. The positive predictive value of mammography
C. The reliability of mammography
D. The validity of mammography
Show answer and rationale
Correct answer: B — The positive predictive value of mammography
The correct answer is B: The positive predictive value of mammography. In this scenario, the woman is distressed over a positive mammogram result, indicating a potential cancer diagnosis. Understanding the positive predictive value of mammography is crucial for the nurse to provide accurate information about the likelihood of the positive result truly indicating cancer. This information helps the nurse guide the woman on next steps and coping strategies.
Choice A (The negative predictive value of mammography) is incorrect because the woman's concern is focused on a positive result indicating cancer, not on ruling out cancer.
Choice C (The reliability of mammography) is incorrect as it pertains to the consistency of test results, which is not the immediate concern in this case.
Choice D (The validity of mammography) is also incorrect as it refers to how accurately a test measures what it is intended to measure, but it does not directly address the woman's emotional distress and need for guidance on dealing with a positive result.
Question 2
Which postpartum patient reqNuUirResS fuIrNthGerT aBss.esCsmOeMnt?
A. G4 P4 who has had four saturated pads during the last 12 hours
B. G1 P1 with Class II heart disease who complains of frequent coughing
C. G2 P2 with gestational diabetes whose fasting blood sugar level is 100 mg/dL
D. G3 P2 postcesarean patient who has active herpes lesions on the labia
Show answer and rationale
Correct answer: A — G4 P4 who has had four saturated pads during the last 12 hours
The correct answer is A because the postpartum patient who has had four saturated pads during the last 12 hours should receive further assessment. This indicates excessive postpartum bleeding (postpartum hemorrhage), which is a critical complication that requires immediate intervention to prevent complications like hypovolemic shock. Monitoring vital signs, assessing for signs of shock, evaluating uterine tone, and determining the cause of bleeding are crucial steps in managing postpartum hemorrhage.
Choices B, C, and D are not the correct answers because:
B: A patient with Class II heart disease complaining of frequent coughing is more likely experiencing cardiac-related issues and requires evaluation and management by a cardiologist.
C: A patient with gestational diabetes and a fasting blood sugar level of 100 mg/dL is within the normal range and does not require immediate further assessment.
D: A postcesarean patient with active herpes lesions on the labia requires appropriate management of the herpes infection but does not necess
Question 3
The nurse understands that if a client continues to be dependent on heroin throughout her pregnancy, her baby will be at high risk for:
A. Mental retardation.
B. Heroin dependence.
C. Addiction in adulthood.
D. Psychological disturbances.
Show answer and rationale
Correct answer: B — Heroin dependence.
The correct answer is B: Heroin dependence. Heroin is a highly addictive substance that can pass through the placenta to the developing fetus, leading to physical dependence in the baby. This can result in withdrawal symptoms after birth, known as Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome (NAS). NAS can cause various health issues for the baby, including respiratory problems, feeding difficulties, seizures, and even death. Therefore, if the mother continues to be dependent on heroin during pregnancy, the baby is at high risk for developing heroin dependence due to exposure in utero.
Incorrect choices:
A: Mental retardation - Heroin use during pregnancy can impact the baby's cognitive development, but it is not directly linked to mental retardation.
C: Addiction in adulthood - While exposure to heroin in utero can increase the risk of addiction later in life, the immediate concern is the baby developing heroin dependence.
D: Psychological disturbances - Heroin use can contribute to psychological issues in both the mother and the baby, but the
Question 4
Youareorientinganewnursinggraduatetoyourmedicalunit.Thenewnursehasbeenassistingan N elderlywoman,whoisGreek,tofillouthermenuforthenextday.Towhatresourceshouldyourefer yourcolleaguetoobtainappropriatedietaryrecommendationsforthispatient?
A. The U.S. Department of Agricultures MyPlate
B. Evidence-based resources on nutritional assessment
C. Culturally sensitive materials, such as the Mediterranean Pyramid
D. A Greek cookbook that contains academic references Test Bank - Brunner & Suddarth's Textbook of Medical-Surgical Nursing 15e 96
Show answer and rationale
Correct answer: C — Culturally sensitive materials, such as the Mediterranean Pyramid
The correct answer is C: Culturally sensitive materials, such as the Mediterranean Pyramid. This choice is the most appropriate because it takes into consideration the patient's cultural background, which is Greek. The Mediterranean diet is well-known for its health benefits and is a suitable dietary recommendation for a Greek elderly woman. Referring to the Mediterranean Pyramid ensures that the dietary recommendations align with the patient's cultural preferences and traditions.
Choice A (The U.S. Department of Agriculture's MyPlate) is incorrect because it provides general dietary guidelines but may not be culturally tailored for a Greek individual. Choice B (Evidence-based resources on nutritional assessment) is also incorrect as it focuses on assessment rather than specific dietary recommendations based on the patient's cultural background. Choice D (A Greek cookbook that contains academic references) is not the best option as it may not provide a comprehensive and balanced dietary plan suitable for the patient's health needs.
Question 5
An adult experienced a myocardial infarction six months ago. At a follow-up visit, this adult says, 'I haven't had much interest in sex since my heart attack. I finished my rehabilitation program, but having sex strains my heart. I don't know if my heart is strong enough.' Which nursing diagnosis applies?
A. Deficient knowledge related to faulty perception of health status
B. Disturbed self-concept related to required lifestyle changes
C. Disturbed body image related to treatment side effects
D. Sexual dysfunction related to self-esteem disturbance
Show answer and rationale
Correct answer: A — Deficient knowledge related to faulty perception of health status
The correct answer is A: Deficient knowledge related to faulty perception of health status. The patient's statement indicates a lack of understanding about their health status and the impact of their myocardial infarction on their sexual activity. The patient is attributing their decreased interest in sex to a fear of straining their heart, indicating a faulty perception of their health status. This nursing diagnosis addresses the patient's need for education and clarification about their condition to alleviate their concerns and improve their confidence in engaging in sexual activity safely.
Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because they do not directly address the patient's lack of knowledge and faulty perception about their health status. Disturbed self-concept (B) relates more to how the patient perceives themselves due to lifestyle changes, while disturbed body image (C) pertains to physical appearance changes. Sexual dysfunction (D) is related to difficulties in sexual function, which is not the primary issue in this scenario.
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Question 6
Which of the following statements about the mental health examination is true?
A. A patient's family is the best resource for information about the patient's coping skills.
B. It is usually sufficient to gather mental health information during the health history interview.
C. It takes an enormous amount of extra time to integrate the mental health examination into the health history interview.
D. It is usually necessary to perform a complete mental health examination to get a good idea of the patient's level of functioning.
Correct answer:
The correct answer is B because the mental health examination should be integrated into the health history interview. This allows for a comprehensive understanding of the patient's mental health status. Gathering mental health information during the health history interview is crucial as it provides insight into the patient's current mental state, past history, and potential risk factors. This integrated approach is efficient and effective in assessing the patient's mental health needs.
A is incorrect because while family input can be valuable, it is not always the best or only resource for information about coping skills.
C is incorrect as integrating the mental health examination into the health history interview should not necessarily take an enormous amount of extra time if done efficiently.
D is incorrect as a complete mental health examination may not always be necessary to assess the patient's level of functioning; integrating mental health information into the health history interview can often provide sufficient insight.
P. T. is a 58-year-old female who is admitted with chest pain and shortness of breath and is found to have a large pulmonary embolus. Her systolic blood pressure is falling, and a diagnosis of obstructive shock is made. Cardiac pressure would likely demonstrate
A. Elevated atrial and decreased ventricular pressures
B. Elevated right-sided and decreased left-sided pressures
C. Elevated left ventricular pressure and decreased cardiac output
D. Elevated left ventricular pressure and decreased systemic vascular resistance
Correct answer:
The correct answer is C because in obstructive shock due to a large pulmonary embolus, there is increased resistance to blood flow out of the right ventricle, leading to elevated right ventricular pressure. This causes a backup of blood into the pulmonary circulation, increasing left ventricular pressure. The increased left ventricular pressure results in decreased cardiac output as the left ventricle struggles to pump against the increased resistance.
A: Elevated atrial and decreased ventricular pressures - This is incorrect as obstructive shock typically results in elevated ventricular pressures due to increased resistance.
B: Elevated right-sided and decreased left-sided pressures - This is partially true, but C is a more complete answer that explains the consequences of these pressures on cardiac output.
D: Elevated left ventricular pressure and decreased systemic vascular resistance - This is incorrect as obstructive shock leads to increased, not decreased, systemic vascular resistance due to the embolus obstructing blood flow.
An oncology nurse is contributing to the care of a patient who has failed to respond appreciably to conventional cancer treatments. As a result, the care team is considering the possible use of biologic response modifiers (BRFs). The nurse should know that these achieve a therapeutic effect by what means?
A. Promoting the synthesis and release of leukocytes
B. Focusing the patients immune system exclusively on the tumor
C. Potentiating the effects of chemotherapeutic agents and radiation therapy
D. Altering the immunologic relationship between the tumor and the patient Chapter 16: End-of-Life Care: Principles: ethical, cultural, Hospice care, RN self-preservation, Assisted suicide: Therapeutic communication
Correct answer:
The correct answer is B: Focusing the patient's immune system exclusively on the tumor. Biologic response modifiers (BRMs) work by enhancing the body's natural defenses to target and attack cancer cells specifically. This approach helps the immune system to recognize and destroy cancer cells while minimizing harm to normal cells.
A: Promoting the synthesis and release of leukocytes - This is not the primary mechanism of action for BRMs. While leukocytes play a role in the immune response, BRMs target the immune system's response to tumors.
C: Potentiating the effects of chemotherapeutic agents and radiation therapy - While some BRMs may be used in combination with these treatments, their primary mode of action is not to enhance the effects of chemotherapy or radiation therapy.
D: Altering the immunologic relationship between the tumor and the patient - This choice is too broad and vague. BRMs specifically aim to direct the immune response towards targeting the tumor cells, rather than altering the overall immunologic relationship
What nursing strategies help families cope with the stress of critical illness? (Select all that apply.)
A. Asking the family to leave during the morning bath to promote the patient’s privacy.
B. Encouraging family members to make notes of questio ns they have for the physician during family rounds.
C. When possible, providing continuity of nursing care.
D. Providing a daily update of the patient’s condition to the family spokesperson.
Correct answer:
The correct answer is B: Encouraging family members to make notes of questions they have for the physician during family rounds. This strategy helps families cope with the stress of critical illness by empowering them to stay informed and actively participate in the patient's care. By encouraging them to make notes, it promotes effective communication with the healthcare team and ensures that their concerns and questions are addressed promptly.
Other choices are incorrect:
A: Asking the family to leave during the morning bath to promote the patient’s privacy is not a helpful strategy for coping with stress as it may lead to feelings of isolation and lack of involvement in the patient's care.
C: Providing continuity of nursing care is important but may not directly address the family's coping mechanisms during a critical illness.
D: Providing a daily update of the patient’s condition to the family spokesperson is valuable but may not fully address the family's need for active participation and communication with the healthcare team.
Youareorientinganewnursinggraduatetoyourmedicalunit.Thenewnursehasbeenassistingan N elderlywoman,whoisGreek,tofillouthermenuforthenextday.Towhatresourceshouldyourefer yourcolleaguetoobtainappropriatedietaryrecommendationsforthispatient?
A. The U.S. Department of Agricultures MyPlate
B. Evidence-based resources on nutritional assessment
C. Culturally sensitive materials, such as the Mediterranean Pyramid
D. A Greek cookbook that contains academic references Test Bank - Brunner & Suddarth's Textbook of Medical-Surgical Nursing 15e 96
Correct answer:
The correct answer is C: Culturally sensitive materials, such as the Mediterranean Pyramid. This choice is the most appropriate because it takes into consideration the patient's cultural background, which is Greek. The Mediterranean diet is well-known for its health benefits and is a suitable dietary recommendation for a Greek elderly woman. Referring to the Mediterranean Pyramid ensures that the dietary recommendations align with the patient's cultural preferences and traditions.
Choice A (The U.S. Department of Agriculture's MyPlate) is incorrect because it provides general dietary guidelines but may not be culturally tailored for a Greek individual. Choice B (Evidence-based resources on nutritional assessment) is also incorrect as it focuses on assessment rather than specific dietary recommendations based on the patient's cultural background. Choice D (A Greek cookbook that contains academic references) is not the best option as it may not provide a comprehensive and balanced dietary plan suitable for the patient's health needs.
A patient is admitted with hypotension, shortness of breath, flushing, and hives. All levels of staff have been trained to assess vital signs. Given budget restrictions and proper delegation rules, to which care provider would the RN delegate the task of obtaining the initial blood pressure reading?
A. RN
B. LPN/LVN
C. Unlicensed assistive personnel (UAP)
D. Use the blood pressure obtained in the ambulance, because it was assessed via electronic monitoring.
Correct answer:
The correct answer is C. The Unlicensed Assistive Personnel (UAP) can be delegated the task of obtaining the initial blood pressure reading because this task is within their scope of practice and does not require specialized nursing knowledge or assessment skills. The UAP can be trained and supervised to accurately measure blood pressure, freeing up the RN to focus on assessing the patient's overall condition and providing necessary interventions. Delegating this task to the UAP is cost-effective and efficient, allowing the RN to prioritize critical nursing assessments and interventions for the patient's presenting symptoms.
Incorrect choices:
A: RN - The RN should not perform tasks that can be safely delegated to other members of the healthcare team to optimize efficiency and resource utilization.
B: LPN/LVN - While LPNs/LVNs have more advanced training than UAPs, obtaining a blood pressure reading is a basic task that can be appropriately delegated to UAPs.
D: Using the blood pressure obtained in the ambulance - This option does
When the nurse inspects a postoperative incision site for infection, which one of the following types of assessments is being performed?
A. Complete
B. Focused
C. General
D. Time-lapse
Correct answer:
The correct answer is B: Focused. When a nurse inspects a postoperative incision site for infection, they are conducting a focused assessment. This type of assessment is specific to a particular issue or body system, in this case, the incision site. By focusing solely on the incision site, the nurse can thoroughly evaluate for signs of infection, such as redness, swelling, warmth, or discharge.
A: Complete assessments involve a comprehensive evaluation of all body systems and are not necessary for this specific situation.
C: General assessments are broad and not targeted towards a specific issue like infection at an incision site.
D: Time-lapse assessments involve comparing current findings to previous assessments over a period of time, which is not relevant to immediately identifying signs of infection.
In summary, the correct answer is focused because it allows for a detailed evaluation of the incision site specifically for signs of infection, unlike the other options that are either too broad or not relevant to the situation.
A school nurse is teaching a 14-year-old girl of normal weight some of the key factors necessary to maintain good nutrition in this stage of her growth and development. What interventions should the t nurse most likely prioritize? r A
A. Decreasing her calorie intake and encouraging her to maintain her weight to avoid obesity
B. Increasing her BMI, taking a multivitamin, and discussing body image s
C. Increasing calcium intake, eating a balanced diet, and discussing eating disorders e
D. Obtaining a food diary along with providing close monitoring for anorexia t
Correct answer:
The correct answer is C because at the age of 14, a girl of normal weight should focus on increasing calcium intake for bone development, eating a balanced diet for overall health, and discussing eating disorders for awareness and prevention. This is crucial during the growth and development stage to ensure proper nutrition and healthy habits.
Choice A is incorrect because decreasing calorie intake in a normal-weight 14-year-old can lead to nutrient deficiencies and hinder growth. Encouraging weight maintenance to avoid obesity is unnecessary in this scenario.
Choice B is incorrect as increasing BMI is not necessary for a normal-weight individual. Taking a multivitamin without addressing specific nutritional needs may not be beneficial. Discussing body image, while important, is not the priority in this context.
Choice D is incorrect as obtaining a food diary and close monitoring for anorexia assumes a problem that may not exist. It is not appropriate to assume disordered eating without evidence in a girl of normal weight.
The nurse is caring for a pregnant patient who is 36 weeks gestation and is concerned about the upcoming delivery. Which of the following statements by the nurse is most appropriate?
A. Labor will likely be quick and easy, especially since this is your first pregnancy.
B. Labor can be unpredictable, and each birth is different.
C. You will probably need a cesarean section since you are at full term.
D. You may not feel any pain during labor because of modern pain relief options.
Correct answer:
The correct answer is B: "Labor can be unpredictable, and each birth is different." This response acknowledges the variability and individuality of labor experiences, providing reassurance to the patient. Labor outcomes depend on various factors such as maternal health, baby's position, and other unforeseen circumstances.
Explanation:
1. A (Labor will likely be quick and easy, especially since this is your first pregnancy): This statement is incorrect because the duration and ease of labor are not solely determined by the patient's parity (number of pregnancies). Each labor is unique and may vary in length and intensity regardless of previous pregnancies.
2. C (You will probably need a cesarean section since you are at full term): This statement is incorrect as the majority of pregnant women deliver vaginally at full term. Cesarean section is not a predetermined outcome solely based on gestational age.
3. D (You may not feel any pain during labor because of modern pain relief options): This statement is incorrect because pain
A nurse is evaluating Levin's Theory of Conservation to determine if it can be applied to patients in the initial phases of chemotherapy treatment. During this phase of theory acceptance, the nurse wants to determine if all the concepts of energy, structural integrity, personal integrity, and social integrity are included in the care of cancer treatment. The nurse is applying which criteria of theory acceptance?
A. Inclusiveness
B. Consistency
C. Accuracy
D. Fruitfulness
Correct answer:
The correct answer is A: Inclusiveness. In this scenario, the nurse is evaluating if Levin's Theory of Conservation includes all the concepts related to energy, structural integrity, personal integrity, and social integrity in the care of cancer treatment. Inclusiveness as a criterion of theory acceptance involves determining if a theory encompasses all relevant concepts and variables within a certain domain. By ensuring that all key components are addressed, the theory can be considered comprehensive and applicable to various situations.
Choice B: Consistency, refers to the internal logical coherence of a theory, which is not the focus of the nurse's evaluation in this case.
Choice C: Accuracy, pertains to the degree to which a theory accurately reflects reality, which is not directly related to the nurse's current evaluation.
Choice D: Fruitfulness, involves the ability of a theory to generate new research and insights, which is not the primary concern for the nurse's assessment of the theory's applicability to cancer treatment.
RN exams clinical judgment practice questions, set 14 for nursing students in the United States. Fifteen items. Five include answers and rationales in American English.
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