RN exams clinical judgment practice questions, set 33
RN exams · clinical judgment
RN exams clinical judgment practice questionsset 33
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 nurse is caring for a client who has avoidant personality disorder. Which of the following types of therapy should the nurse anticipate that the client's problems arise from issues of role definition and grief and will frame solutions in interpersonal terms. This therapy is useful for those with avoidant personality disorder who seek the approval of others and fear rejection.
A. Antipsychotic medications
B. Dialectical behavior therapy
C. Antidepressant medications
D. Interpersonal therapy
Show answer and rationale
Correct answer: D — Interpersonal therapy
The correct answer is D: Interpersonal therapy. This therapy focuses on addressing issues related to interpersonal relationships and communication. For clients with avoidant personality disorder who fear rejection and seek approval, interpersonal therapy helps them navigate their difficulties in forming and maintaining relationships. It also addresses issues of role definition and grief, which are common challenges for individuals with this disorder.
Antipsychotic medications (A) are typically used to treat psychotic disorders, not personality disorders like avoidant personality disorder. Dialectical behavior therapy (B) is more commonly used for borderline personality disorder, not avoidant personality disorder. Antidepressant medications (C) may be prescribed for individuals with avoidant personality disorder who also have comorbid depression, but they do not specifically target the interpersonal issues and fear of rejection that are core features of this disorder.
Question 2
Which of the following method if used by Wilma will best assure that the tracheostomy ties are not too tightly placed?
A. Wilma places 2 fingers between the tie and neck
B. The tracheotomy can be pulled slightly away from the neck
C. James’ neck veins are not engorged
D. Wilma measures the tie from the nose to the tip of the earlobe and to the xiphoid process
Show answer and rationale
Correct answer: A — Wilma places 2 fingers between the tie and neck
The correct answer is A: Wilma places 2 fingers between the tie and neck. This method ensures that the tracheostomy ties are not too tightly placed by providing a standardized and easily replicable measurement. Placing 2 fingers ensures there is adequate space for proper airflow and movement without causing pressure or constriction. This method is a widely accepted practice in healthcare settings to prevent complications such as skin breakdown or restricted blood flow.
Incorrect choices:
B: The tracheotomy can be pulled slightly away from the neck - This does not provide a standardized measurement and may not accurately assess the tightness of the ties.
C: James’ neck veins are not engorged - Monitoring neck veins does not directly correlate with the tightness of tracheostomy ties.
D: Wilma measures the tie from the nose to the tip of the earlobe and to the xiphoid process - This method may not accurately reflect the appropriate tightness of the ties around the neck.
Question 3
A client, age 70, was brought into the Emergency Department by family members who reported a fall. During the assessment the nurse became suspicious that the client had suffered physical abuse. The client denied that she had been abused. Her denial is most likely based on her:
A. Strong belief that nothing could be done to help her
B. Fear of the possibility of being removed from her family
C. Feeling that she deserved the physical abuse
D. Lack of trust that the situation could be changed
Show answer and rationale
Correct answer: B — Fear of the possibility of being removed from her family
The correct answer is B: Fear of the possibility of being removed from her family. This is because elderly individuals who are experiencing abuse may fear being separated from their family if they disclose the abuse. This fear of losing their support system can lead them to deny or minimize the abuse. This choice is the most likely reason for the client's denial in this scenario.
Choice A: Strong belief that nothing could be done to help her is incorrect because the client's denial is not based on a belief that nothing could be done, but rather on a fear of being removed from her family.
Choice C: Feeling that she deserved the physical abuse is incorrect as victims of abuse often do not feel they deserve the abuse, but rather may feel ashamed or fearful.
Choice D: Lack of trust that the situation could be changed is incorrect because the client's denial is more likely based on a fear of losing her family, rather than a lack of trust in the situation changing.
Question 4
An oncology nurse educator is speaking to a women’s group about breast cancer. Questions and comments from the audience reveal a misunderstanding of some aspects of the disease. Various members of the audience have made all of the following statements. Which one is accurate?
A. Mammography is the most reliable method for detecting breast cancer.
B. Breast cancer is the leading killer of women of childbearing age.
C. Breast cancer requires a mastectomy.
D. Men can develop breast cancer.
Show answer and rationale
Correct answer: D — Men can develop breast cancer.
The correct answer is D: Men can develop breast cancer. This is accurate because although breast cancer is more common in women, men can also develop the disease due to the presence of breast tissue in their bodies. This is a crucial point to emphasize to raise awareness about breast cancer among men.
Incorrect choices:
A: Mammography is not the most reliable method for detecting breast cancer, as it may not detect all types of breast cancer.
B: Breast cancer is not the leading killer of women of childbearing age, as there are other leading causes of death in this age group.
C: Breast cancer does not always require a mastectomy; treatment options vary depending on the individual case.
Summary: Choice D is correct as it highlights the important fact that men can also develop breast cancer, which is often overlooked. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect due to inaccuracies or oversimplifications of the facts related to breast cancer detection, statistics, and treatment.
Question 5
A client at 28 weeks' gestation is undergoing a glucose tolerance test. What is the purpose of this test?
A. To detect anemia.
B. To screen for gestational diabetes.
C. To assess fetal growth.
D. To evaluate placental function.
Show answer and rationale
Correct answer: B — To screen for gestational diabetes.
The correct answer is B: To screen for gestational diabetes. The glucose tolerance test during pregnancy helps to identify women at risk for developing gestational diabetes, a condition that can lead to complications for both the mother and baby. By measuring blood sugar levels after consuming a glucose solution, healthcare providers can assess how the body processes sugar during pregnancy. This test is specifically designed to detect abnormalities in glucose metabolism during pregnancy.
Choice A: To detect anemia - Anemia is not typically identified through a glucose tolerance test. Anemia is usually diagnosed through a blood test that measures hemoglobin levels.
Choice C: To assess fetal growth - Fetal growth is usually monitored through ultrasound scans and measurements, not through a glucose tolerance test.
Choice D: To evaluate placental function - Placental function is evaluated through other tests like Doppler ultrasound, not through a glucose tolerance test.
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Question 6
Which of the following actions demonstrates that the nurse has an understanding of the impact that continued advancements in psychopharmacology has on both client outcomes and professional psychiatric nursing practice?
A. Working towards achieving advanced practice nursing credentials in psychiatric nursing
B. Stressing the importance of medication therapy compliance with each client upon discharge
C. Participating in interdisciplinary treatment teams as a means of staying current regarding the latest clinical treatments and guidelines
D. Accessing information on the best evidence-based practices regarding the psychopharmacology medications being prescribed to his or her clients
Correct answer:
Step-by-step rationale for why Answer D is correct:
1. Accessing information on evidence-based practices shows the nurse's commitment to staying informed about psychopharmacology advancements.
2. Being knowledgeable about medications helps in making informed decisions for client care, ultimately leading to better outcomes.
3. Understanding evidence-based practices enhances the nurse's ability to provide safe and effective medication management.
4. By accessing information on best practices, the nurse demonstrates a proactive approach to enhancing professional psychiatric nursing practice.
Summary:
Answer D is correct because it directly addresses the impact of advancements in psychopharmacology on client outcomes and professional psychiatric nursing practice by emphasizing the importance of staying informed and using evidence-based practices. Other choices do not specifically highlight the nurse's understanding of the impact of psychopharmacology advancements.
Which of the following dilemmas involve the ethical principle of fidelity? Select all that apply.
A. When the nurse is unable to agree with the policies or common practices of an agency
B. When the nurse is faced with a decision to violate a policy that is harmful to the client
C. When the nurse is certain that clients of different racial and ethnic backgrounds are being treated the same as other clients
D. When the nurse understands that a combative client must be secluded against their will to prevent harm to others
Correct answer:
When the nurse is unable to agree with the policies or common practices of an agency, the nurse is facing a dilemma about fidelity, which refers to the obligation to honor commitments and contracts. When the nurse is faced with a decision to violate a policy that is harmful to the client, the nurse is facing a dilemma about fidelity—that is, should the nurse be faithful to the employing agency or the individual client being cared for. When the nurse is certain that clients of different racial and ethnic backgrounds are being treated the same as other clients, the nurse is acting in accord with the ethical principle of justice. When the nurse understands that a combative client must be secluded against his or her will to prevent harm to others, the nurse is following the ethical principle of utilitarianism. When a client refuses to take medications and the nurse respects the client's right to refuse medication, the nurse is enacting the ethical principle of autonomy.
Mr. U (pulmonary resection) has developed a tension pneumothorax. He is currently receiving high-flow oxygen via nonrebreather mask but continues to experience respiratory distress. What is the priority action?
A. Remove the occlusive dressing around the chest wound.
B. Perform a needle thoracotomy with a 14- to 16-gauge catheter needle.
C. Initiate cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR).
D. Call for the crash cart and intubation equipment.
Correct answer:
The correct answer is B: Perform a needle thoracotomy with a 14- to 16-gauge catheter needle.
Rationale:
1. Tension pneumothorax is a life-threatening emergency where air accumulates in the pleural space, causing lung collapse and increased pressure in the chest.
2. The standard treatment for tension pneumothorax is needle thoracostomy, which involves inserting a large-bore needle into the chest to release the trapped air.
3. In this scenario, Mr. U is in respiratory distress despite receiving high-flow oxygen, indicating a significant problem with ventilation that requires immediate intervention.
4. Performing a needle thoracotomy will rapidly decompress the tension pneumothorax, relieving pressure on the heart and lungs, and improving respiratory function.
5. This action takes precedence over other options such as removing the occlusive dressing, initiating CPR, or calling for intubation equipment, as immediate decompression is crucial in managing tension pneumoth
Her blood pressure and pulse are unremarkable. Her head, eyes, ears, nose, and throat examinations are unremarkable except for edema of the nasal turbinates. On auscultation she has decreased air movement, and coarse crackles are heard over the left lower lobe. There is dullness on percussion, increased fremitus during palpation, and egophony and whispered pectoriloquy on auscultation. What disorder of the thorax or lung best describes her symptoms?
A. Spontaneous pneumothorax
B. Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
C. Asthma
D. Pneumonia
Correct answer:
The patient's symptoms point towards pneumonia. Pneumonia is characterized by infection and inflammation in the lung tissue, leading to symptoms such as decreased air movement, crackles on auscultation, dullness on percussion, increased fremitus on palpation, and abnormal breath sounds like egophony and whispered pectoriloquy. These findings are consistent with consolidation of the lung, which occurs in pneumonia as a result of fluid, inflammatory cells, and tissue debris filling the alveoli. The presence of nasal turbinates edema indicates a possible upper respiratory tract infection that may have preceded the development of pneumonia. Spontaneous pneumothorax would typically present with sudden-onset chest pain and dyspnea but would not typically cause findings of lung consolidation. Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and asthma are characterized by different patterns of lung damage and symptoms, such as chronic inflammation, airflow obstruction, and hyper
A nurse is caring for a laboring person who is in the third stage of labor. What is the most appropriate nursing intervention during this stage?
A. assist with the delivery of the placenta
B. prepare for a vaginal birth
C. administer oxytocin
D. apply gentle pressure to the uterus
Correct answer:
The correct answer is A: assist with the delivery of the placenta. During the third stage of labor, the placenta needs to be delivered. This is done by gently applying traction to the umbilical cord while supporting the uterus to facilitate the expulsion of the placenta. This step is crucial to prevent postpartum hemorrhage.
Choice B (prepare for a vaginal birth) is incorrect because the person is already in the third stage of labor, which means the baby has been delivered and they are now focusing on delivering the placenta.
Choice C (administer oxytocin) is incorrect because while oxytocin may be used to help control bleeding after the placenta is delivered, it is not the most appropriate intervention during the third stage of labor.
Choice D (apply gentle pressure to the uterus) is incorrect because direct pressure to the uterus is not the primary intervention during the third stage of labor; assisting with the delivery of the placenta takes precedence.
A 45-year-old married woman who works full time in a factory has recently been absent for 3-day periods on several occasions. Each time, she returned to work wearing dark glasses. Facial and body bruises were apparent. Her supervisor became suspicious that she was a victim of battering and referred her to the occupational health nurse. What should the nurse first focus on as she meets the patient?
A. Notifying the police of the abuse
B. Documenting the woman's injuries
C. Establishing trust and building rapport
D. Collecting evidence to prosecute the abuser
Correct answer:
The correct answer is C: Establishing trust and building rapport. The nurse should first focus on building a trusting relationship with the patient to create a safe environment for her to disclose any abuse she may be experiencing. By establishing trust and rapport, the nurse can gain the patient's confidence and encourage her to open up about her situation. This approach is crucial in ensuring the patient feels supported and empowered to seek help.
Incorrect choices:
A: Notifying the police of the abuse - This may jeopardize the patient's safety and could worsen the situation if she is not ready to involve law enforcement.
B: Documenting the woman's injuries - While documenting injuries is important, it should not be the first step as it may further distress the patient without addressing the underlying issue.
D: Collecting evidence to prosecute the abuser - Prosecution should not be the initial focus; the priority should be on the patient's well-being and safety.
A public health nurse is teaching a health class for the male students at the local high school. The nurse is teaching the boys to perform monthly testicular self-examinations. What point would be appropriate to emphasize?
A. Testicular cancer is a highly curable type of cancer.
B. Testicular cancer is very difficult to diagnose.
C. Testicular cancer is the number one cause of cancer deaths in males.
D. Testicular cancer is more common in older men.
Correct answer:
The correct answer is A: Testicular cancer is a highly curable type of cancer. This is the most appropriate point to emphasize because early detection through regular self-examinations can lead to early treatment and a high survival rate. Testicular cancer has a very high cure rate, especially when detected and treated early. Emphasizing this point encourages boys to perform monthly self-exams, leading to early detection and better outcomes.
Explanation of other choices:
B: Testicular cancer is very difficult to diagnose - This is incorrect because testicular cancer is actually one of the more easily detectable cancers through self-examinations.
C: Testicular cancer is the number one cause of cancer deaths in males - This is incorrect as testicular cancer is not the leading cause of cancer deaths in males.
D: Testicular cancer is more common in older men - This is incorrect as testicular cancer is more common in younger men, typically between the ages of 15 and 44.
The nurse is discussing actions that can be taken to best prevent osteoporosis with a patient. The nurse s teaching should include:
A. taking an extra calcium supplement
B. eating a balanced diet
C. exercising throughout life
D. eating daily amounts of milk products
Correct answer:
Osteoporosis prevention relies heavily on maintaining bone density and strength over time. Regular physical activity, especially weight-bearing exercises like walking or strength training, stimulates bone formation and slows bone loss, making it a cornerstone of prevention. While a balanced diet is essential for overall health, it alone doesn't target bone health unless it specifically includes adequate calcium and vitamin D. Taking extra calcium supplements might help if dietary intake is insufficient, but it's not the most proactive or comprehensive approach without exercise. Consuming daily milk products provides calcium, but this is only one piece of the puzzle and doesn't address the mechanical stress on bones that exercise provides. Exercise throughout life stands out because it directly impacts bone remodeling and resilience, reducing the risk of fractures as one ages, unlike the other options which are either narrower in scope or less effective independently.
The nurse in the emergency department tells the daughter of a patient that her 86-year-old mother has had a stroke. The daughter tearfully asks the nurse, 'Who will take care of me now?' When the nurse explores this query, the daughter mentions that her mother always tells her what job to take, what clothes to buy and wear, and what to have for lunch. The daughter states that she needs someone to direct her and reassure her when she gets anxious. With which personality disorder is this presentation most consistent?
A. Histrionic
B. Dependent
C. Narcissistic
D. Borderline
Correct answer:
The correct answer is B: Dependent. This presentation is most consistent with dependent personality disorder because the daughter is displaying excessive need for someone to take care of her and make decisions for her, as well as seeking reassurance and guidance when anxious. Individuals with dependent personality disorder often lack self-confidence and rely heavily on others for emotional and physical needs.
Choice A: Histrionic personality disorder is characterized by attention-seeking behavior and excessive emotions, which do not match the daughter's presentation.
Choice C: Narcissistic personality disorder involves a grandiose sense of self-importance and a lack of empathy for others, which is not evident in the daughter's behavior.
Choice D: Borderline personality disorder is characterized by unstable relationships, self-image, and emotions, as well as impulsive behaviors, which are not reflected in the daughter's need for constant direction and reassurance.
The organization of a patients care on the palliative care unit is based on interdisciplinary collaboration. How does interdisciplinary collaboration differ from multidisciplinary practice?
A. It is based on the participation of clinicians without a team leader.
B. It is based on clinicians of varied backgrounds integrating their separate plans of care.
C. It is based on communication and cooperation between disciplines.
D. It is based on medical expertise and patient preference with the support of nursing.
Correct answer:
Interdisciplinary collaboration involves clinicians from different backgrounds integrating their separate plans of care, ensuring a holistic approach to patient care. This fosters a comprehensive understanding of the patient's needs and individualized care. In contrast, multidisciplinary practice involves clinicians working independently without integrating their plans, potentially leading to fragmented care.
Choice A is incorrect as interdisciplinary collaboration does have a team leader to coordinate and facilitate communication among team members.
Choice C is incorrect because while communication and cooperation are essential in interdisciplinary collaboration, the key distinction is the integration of different perspectives and plans of care.
Choice D is incorrect as interdisciplinary collaboration goes beyond just medical expertise and patient preference, involving professionals from various disciplines working together to address all aspects of patient care.
RN exams clinical judgment practice questions, set 33 for nursing students in the United States. Fifteen items. Five include answers and rationales in American English.
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