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 RN exams exam guide or more RN 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
A 24-year-old man sustains multiple fractured ribs bilaterally as a result of being crushed in a press at a plywood factory. Examination in the ED reveals a flail segment of the patient's thorax. Primary resuscitation includes high-flow oxygen administration via a nonrebreathing mask
A. and initiation of Ringers lactate solution. The patient exhibits progressive confusion
B. cyanosis
C. and tachypne Management at this time should consist of:
D. Endotracheal intubation and mechanical ventilation.
Show answer and rationale
Correct answer: D — Endotracheal intubation and mechanical ventilation.
The correct answer is D: Endotracheal intubation and mechanical ventilation. In the case of a flail chest, where multiple ribs are fractured causing a segment of the chest wall to move independently from the rest of the thorax, the patient is at high risk of respiratory compromise. Endotracheal intubation and mechanical ventilation are necessary to ensure adequate oxygenation and ventilation, as the flail segment impairs the ability of the chest wall to expand effectively. High-flow oxygen via a nonrebreathing mask alone may not be sufficient to support the patient's respiratory needs. Choice A is incorrect because the patient's confusion is likely due to inadequate oxygenation and ventilation, not fluid resuscitation. Choice B is incorrect because cyanosis is a late sign of respiratory distress and should not be solely relied upon for management decisions. Choice C is incorrect as tachypnea is a compensatory mechanism and not a definitive management strategy for a flail chest.
Question 2
Which of the following patients best fits the criteria for a critical burn?
A. A 10-year-old patient with superficial burns over 60% of the body
B. A 15-year-old patient with full-thickness burns on the left upper/lower arm, non-circumferential
C. A 60-year-old patient with partial-thickness burns across 25% of the body, not involving the hands, feet, face, or genitals
D. A 20-year-old patient with partial-thickness burns on 25% of the body, not including the hands, feet, face, or genitals
Show answer and rationale
Correct answer: A — A 10-year-old patient with superficial burns over 60% of the body
The correct answer is A because a 10-year-old patient with superficial burns over 60% of the body is considered a critical burn due to the extent of body surface area involved and the age of the patient. Young children have less physiological reserve and are more prone to fluid loss and complications. Superficial burns over a large body surface area can lead to significant fluid loss, electrolyte imbalances, and potential systemic complications.
Choice B is incorrect as full-thickness burns are more severe than superficial burns, but the extent of burns on the left upper/lower arm is limited compared to Choice A.
Choice C is incorrect because although the patient has partial-thickness burns over 25% of the body, the age of the patient is not as critical as in Choice A.
Choice D is incorrect for the same reasons as Choice C; the extent of burns is similar but the age of the patient is different, and the patient's age is a crucial factor in determining the severity of burns.
Question 3
You are on-scene with a patient in cardiac arrest. You turn the monitor/defibrillator on and attach the pads to the patient. When it begins to analyze the patient's cardiac rhythm, it signals 'low battery' and then shuts off. You have no other batteries available, and an electrical plug is not available. The patient subsequently dies despite adequate CPR and advanced airway and ventilation during transport. Which of the following could result?
A. Manslaughter charges could be brought against the paramedic in charge of the unit
B. Negligence charges could be brought against the paramedic in charge of the unit
C. Battery charges could be brought against the entire service
D. Defamation charges could be brought against the entire crew on scene
Show answer and rationale
Correct answer: B — Negligence charges could be brought against the paramedic in charge of the unit
The correct answer is B: Negligence charges could be brought against the paramedic in charge of the unit.
Rationale:
1. Negligence is the failure to exercise the standard of care that a reasonably prudent person would have in a similar situation.
2. In this scenario, the paramedic in charge failed to ensure the equipment was adequately charged or had backup batteries, leading to the device shutting off during a critical moment.
3. This failure to provide proper equipment falls below the standard of care expected in the field of emergency medical services.
4. As a result, the patient's death could be attributed to the paramedic's negligence in ensuring equipment readiness.
Summary:
A: Manslaughter charges require a higher level of intent and causation, not applicable here.
C: Battery charges refer to physical harm, not applicable in this context.
D: Defamation charges involve false statements damaging a person's reputation, not relevant to the situation described.
Question 4
The charge nurse is preparing to admit a client with acute confusion secondary to UTI. The client has been known to be combative at times and tries frequently to get out of bed. Which of the following beds should the nurse assign to the client?
A. a bed distanced from the nursing station and other client rooms
B. a bed in a shared room with a client recovering from abdominal laparoscopy
C. a bed near the elevators
D. a bed near the nurses’ station
Show answer and rationale
Correct answer: D — a bed near the nurses’ station
The correct answer is D: a bed near the nurses' station. This choice is the safest option for a client with acute confusion and combative behavior. Placing the client near the nurses' station allows for closer monitoring and quicker intervention if the client tries to get out of bed or becomes agitated. The proximity to the nursing staff can help prevent falls, ensure prompt assistance, and maintain a safe environment.
Choice A: a bed distanced from the nursing station and other client rooms, is incorrect because it can lead to delayed response time and increased risk of falls or injury for the client.
Choice B: a bed in a shared room with a client recovering from abdominal laparoscopy, is incorrect because the other client's condition may not be conducive to a safe environment for a combative client.
Choice C: a bed near the elevators, is incorrect as it does not provide the necessary supervision and support for a client with acute confusion and combative behavior.
Question 5
For the following situations, state the type of data collection you would perform (i.e., complete database, focused or problem-centered database, follow-up database, emergency database). c. first visit to a health care provider for a checkup
A. Complete database
B. Focused or problem-centered database
C. Follow-up database
D. Emergency database
Show answer and rationale
Correct answer: A — Complete database
The correct answer is A: Complete database. During the first visit for a checkup, a complete database is necessary to gather comprehensive information about the patient's medical history, current health status, family history, medications, allergies, and lifestyle factors. This type of data collection allows the healthcare provider to establish a baseline for the patient's health and identify any potential risks or issues.
Choice B (Focused or problem-centered database) would not be appropriate for the first visit as it involves gathering information related to a specific health issue or concern, which may not capture all relevant information for a new patient.
Choice C (Follow-up database) is used to track changes or progress over time for established patients, so it is not suitable for the initial visit.
Choice D (Emergency database) is designed for urgent situations where quick access to critical information is needed, which is not the case for a routine checkup.
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Question 6
What is one guideline for a nursing assistant who is caring for a resident receiving oxygen therapy?
A. The NA should limit smoking to certain areas.
B. The NA should reduce the number of pillows the resident uses.
C. The NA should report changes in the resident's respiratory rate.
D. The NA should use petroleum-based lip balms to help with irritation.
Correct answer:
Correct Answer: C - The NA should report changes in the resident's respiratory rate.
Rationale: Reporting changes in the resident's respiratory rate is crucial in oxygen therapy monitoring. It helps identify any potential respiratory distress or improvement. This information allows healthcare providers to adjust oxygen levels accordingly and provide appropriate care. Monitoring respiratory rate is a key aspect of ensuring the resident's safety and well-being.
Summary of other choices:
A: The NA should limit smoking to certain areas. - Smoking should be completely avoided near a resident receiving oxygen therapy to prevent fire hazards.
B: The NA should reduce the number of pillows the resident uses. - Adjusting the number of pillows may affect the resident's comfort but does not directly relate to oxygen therapy.
D: The NA should use petroleum-based lip balms to help with irritation. - Petroleum-based lip balms are flammable and should be avoided near oxygen therapy.
A patient with a head injury has admission vital signs of blood pressure 128/68, pulse 110, and respirations 26. Which of these vital signs, if taken 1 hour after admission, will be of most concern to the nurse?
A. Blood pressure 160/50, pulse 55, respirations 14
B. Blood pressure 110/70, pulse 120, respirations 30
C. Blood pressure 148/78, pulse 112, respirations 28
D. Blood pressure 150/72, pulse 60, respirations 32
Correct answer:
The correct answer is A. The significant change in blood pressure from 128/68 to 160/50, along with a significant decrease in pulse from 110 to 55, and a decrease in respirations from 26 to 14, indicates potential signs of deteriorating condition. A drop in blood pressure paired with a significant decrease in pulse and respirations could signify shock, which is a life-threatening condition that requires immediate intervention.
Option B shows an increase in pulse and respirations, but the blood pressure remains within an acceptable range. Option C shows a slight increase in blood pressure with minimal changes in pulse and respirations. Option D shows a moderate decrease in pulse and a significant increase in respirations, but the blood pressure remains relatively stable.
In summary, option A is the most concerning as it shows a combination of significant changes in blood pressure, pulse, and respirations, indicating a potential deterioration in the patient's condition.
Which of the following are examples of breaches of patient confidentiality? Select all that apply.
A. A nurse discusses a patient with a coworker in the elevator.
B. A nurse shares her computer password with a relative of a patient.
C. A nurse checks the medical record of a patient to see who should be called in an emergency.
D. A nurse updates the employer of a patient regarding the patients return to work.
Correct answer:
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Choice A is a breach of patient confidentiality because discussing patient information in a public area like an elevator violates the patient's right to privacy. Confidential patient information should only be discussed in private, secure locations to protect the patient's confidentiality.
Summary of other choices:
B: Sharing a computer password with a relative of a patient is a breach of security protocols but not necessarily a breach of patient confidentiality unless the password provides access to patient information.
C: Checking a patient's medical record for emergency contact information is not a breach of patient confidentiality as long as it is done for appropriate medical reasons and does not involve sharing the information with unauthorized individuals.
D: Updating an employer about a patient's return to work does not violate patient confidentiality if done with the patient's consent and does not disclose sensitive medical information.
During a physical examination, a 45-year-old woman states that she has had a crusty, itchy rash on her breast for approximately 2 weeks. In trying to find the cause of the rash, which question would be important for the nurse to ask?
A. "Is the rash raised and red?"
B. "Does it appear to be cyclic?"
C. "Where did the rash first appearâ€â€on the nipple, the areola, or the surrounding skin?"
D. "What was she doing when she first noticed the rash, and do her actions make it worse?"
Correct answer:
The correct answer is C: "Where did the rash first appear—on the nipple, the areola, or the surrounding skin?" This question is crucial because the location of the rash can provide valuable clues about the potential cause. For example, a rash on the nipple may point towards issues like Paget's disease, while a rash on the areola could suggest eczema or contact dermatitis. On the other hand, a rash on the surrounding skin may indicate a fungal infection or allergic reaction. By identifying the precise location of the rash, the nurse can narrow down the differential diagnosis and develop an appropriate care plan.
Summary:
A: "Is the rash raised and red?" - This question focuses on the appearance of the rash but does not provide specific information about its location, which is more critical in determining the cause.
B: "Does it appear to be cyclic?" - This question is not as directly relevant to identifying the cause of the rash compared to pinpointing its location.
D
During a visit to the clinic, a patient states, 'The doctor just told me he thought I ought to stop smoking. He doesn't understand how hard I've tried. I just don't know the best way to do it. What should I do?' The nurse's most appropriate response in this case would be:
A. I'd quit if I were you. The doctor really knows what he is talking about.'
B. Would you like some information about the different ways a person can quit smoking?'
C. Stopping your dependence on cigarettes can be very difficult. I understand how you feel.'
D. Why are you confused? Didn't the doctor give you the information about the smoking cessation program we offer?'
Correct answer:
The correct answer is B: "Would you like some information about the different ways a person can quit smoking?"
Rationale:
1. Empathy: This response shows empathy by acknowledging the patient's struggle and offering support.
2. Patient-Centered Care: By asking if the patient would like information, the nurse involves the patient in decision-making.
3. Education: Providing information about quitting smoking empowers the patient to make an informed choice.
4. Non-judgmental: This response avoids judgment or pressure, which can help the patient feel more comfortable seeking help.
Summary of Incorrect Choices:
A: This response is directive and lacks empathy, potentially making the patient feel judged or pressured.
C: While empathetic, this response does not offer practical help or information to address the patient's concerns.
D: This response is confrontational and assumes the patient should already know about the smoking cessation program, which may come across as dismissive.
A 70-year-old patient is being seen in the clinic for severe exacerbation of his heart failure. Which of these findings is the nurse most likely to observe in this patient?
A. Shortness of breath, orthopnea, paroxysmal nocturnal dyspnea, and ankle edema.
B. Rasping cough, thick mucoid sputum, wheezing, and bronchitis.
C. Productive cough, dyspnea, weight loss, anorexia, and tuberculosis.
D. Fever, dry nonproductive cough, and diminished breath sounds.
Correct answer:
The correct answer is A. In a severe exacerbation of heart failure, the patient is likely to exhibit symptoms such as shortness of breath, orthopnea (difficulty breathing lying flat), paroxysmal nocturnal dyspnea (sudden onset of difficulty breathing at night), and ankle edema (swelling). These symptoms are classic signs of heart failure exacerbation due to fluid overload and poor cardiac function.
Explanation for why the other choices are incorrect:
- B: Rasping cough, thick mucoid sputum, wheezing, and bronchitis are more indicative of respiratory conditions such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease or pneumonia, not heart failure exacerbation.
- C: Productive cough, dyspnea, weight loss, anorexia, and tuberculosis suggest a different diagnosis related to a respiratory infection like tuberculosis rather than heart failure exacerbation.
- D: Fever, dry nonproductive cough, and diminished breath sounds are more suggestive of a respiratory infection like pneumonia,
You are obtaining an arterial blood gas in the radial artery on a retired cab driver who has been hospitalized in the intensive care unit for a stroke. You are concerned about the possibility of arterial insufficiency. You perform the Allen test. This means that you:
A. Checked for patency of the radial artery
B. Checked for patency of the brachial artery
C. Checked for patency of the ulnar artery
D. Checked for patency of the femoral artery
Correct answer:
The correct answer is C: Checked for patency of the ulnar artery. The Allen test is used to assess the collateral circulation of the hand before arterial blood sampling from the radial artery. This involves occluding both the ulnar and radial arteries and then releasing pressure on the ulnar artery while observing the return of color to the hand. If the ulnar artery is patent, the hand should regain color within 5-10 seconds, indicating adequate collateral circulation. This is important to prevent ischemic complications.
Choice A (Checked for patency of the radial artery) is incorrect because the Allen test specifically evaluates the ulnar artery's patency, not the radial artery.
Choice B (Checked for patency of the brachial artery) is incorrect because the Allen test focuses on the collateral circulation in the hand, not the brachial artery.
Choice D (Checked for patency of the femoral artery) is incorrect because the Allen test is not used to assess the femoral artery
A nurse cares for a patient who tests positive for alpha1-antitrypsin (AAT) deficiency. The patient asks, “What does this mean?†How would the nurse respond?
A. “Your children will be at high risk for the development of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.â€
B. “I will contact a genetic counselor to discuss your condition.â€
C. “Your risk for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease is higher, especially if you smoke.â€
D. “This is a recessive gene and would have no impact on your health.â€
Correct answer:
Step-by-step rationale for why Option C is correct:
1. Alpha1-antitrypsin deficiency predisposes individuals to develop chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
2. Smoking exacerbates the risk of COPD in individuals with AAT deficiency.
3. By stating, "Your risk for COPD is higher, especially if you smoke," the nurse addresses the patient's concern and provides relevant information.
4. This response acknowledges the connection between AAT deficiency, COPD risk, and smoking, empowering the patient to make informed decisions about their health.
Summary of why the other choices are incorrect:
A. Incorrect. AAT deficiency does not directly impact the children's risk for COPD; it is the individual who has the deficiency who is at risk.
B. Incorrect. While genetic counseling may be beneficial, it does not directly answer the patient's question about the implications of AAT deficiency.
D. Incorrect. AAT deficiency can impact the individual's health, especially their
You are treating and transporting a 26-year-old female involved in an MVA. She has multiple injuries, but all associated hemorrhage is controlled. The patient is exhibiting signs and symptoms of hypovolemic shock. During treatment and transport, you infuse one liter of lactated Ringer's solution, and the patient remains hypotensive. Once at the hospital, which of the following is most likely to be administered immediately upon arrival?
A. O-negative whole blood containing plasma
B. O-negative packed red blood cells
C. O-positive packed red blood cells
D. O-positive whole blood without plasma
Correct answer:
The correct answer is B: O-negative packed red blood cells. In hypovolemic shock, the primary issue is a significant loss of red blood cells leading to decreased oxygen-carrying capacity and subsequent hypotension. Packed red blood cells contain a concentrated amount of red blood cells, which can help improve the patient's oxygenation status and hemodynamic stability more effectively than whole blood or other blood products. O-negative blood is used to avoid potential reactions due to ABO incompatibility. Administering packed red blood cells upon arrival at the hospital is crucial to rapidly address the underlying cause of hypovolemic shock.
Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because whole blood or packed red blood cells without plasma may not provide the necessary oxygen-carrying capacity to address the patient's condition effectively. Additionally, using O-positive blood products for a female patient can lead to potentially harmful reactions due to ABO incompatibility.
The nurse notes darker skin pigmentation in the skinfolds of a middle-aged patient who has a body mass index of 40 kg/m2. What is the nurse’s appropriate action?
A. Discuss the use of drying agents to minimize infection risk.
B. Instruct the patient about the use of mild soap to clean skinfolds.
C. Teach the patient about treating fungal infections in the skinfolds.
D. Ask the patient about a personal or family history of type 2 diabetes.
Correct answer:
The correct answer is D: Ask the patient about a personal or family history of type 2 diabetes. This is important because individuals with darker skin pigmentation and obesity are at higher risk for developing type 2 diabetes. By inquiring about the patient's personal or family history of type 2 diabetes, the nurse can gather important information to assess the patient's risk factors and potentially intervene early.
Summary of other choices:
A: Discussing the use of drying agents to minimize infection risk may not address the underlying health concern related to darker skin pigmentation and obesity.
B: Instructing the patient about the use of mild soap to clean skinfolds is important for hygiene but does not address the potential risk of type 2 diabetes.
C: Teaching the patient about treating fungal infections in the skinfolds may be relevant if there is a current infection but does not address the broader health implications of darker skin pigmentation and obesity.
RN exams fundamentals practice questions, set 10 for nursing students in the United States. Fifteen items. Five include answers and rationales in American English.
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