RN exams medical-surgical practice questions, set 12
RN exams · medical-surgical
RN exams medical-surgical practice questionsset 12
You practice adult health stems across systems, then name the action that changes the outcome. 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 medical-surgical 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 a surgical incision with sutures. The nurse observes that the edges of the wound are well approximated and there is minimal drainage from the site. The nurse documents this type of wound healing as:
A. Primary intention
B. Secondary intention
C. Tertiary intention
D. Quaternary intention
Show answer and rationale
Correct answer: A — Primary intention
Primary intention is the correct answer as it describes wound healing where the edges are well approximated, such as with sutures, and there's minimal tissue loss or drainage, leading to fast healing with minimal scarring. This typically occurs in clean, surgical incisions where the body can efficiently close the wound through epithelialization. Secondary intention occurs when wound edges are not approximated, often due to significant tissue loss or infection, healing through granulation tissue formation, which takes longer and results in more scarring. Tertiary intention involves a delay in closure, often intentionally left open for drainage or debridement before suturing, resulting in intermediate scarring. Quaternary intention is not a recognized term in wound healing classifications. The scenario's description of well-approximated edges and minimal drainage aligns with primary intention, reflecting an optimal healing process under controlled conditions.
Question 2
Which of the following statements is incorrect about celiac disease?
A. There is a strong genetic association: more than 90% of celiac patients express the HLA allele DO2 or DO8
B. It is technically an allergy but has some features of autoimmunity
C. The disease is mainly caused by an abnormal innate response to gluten while adaptive cells are not involved
D. The disease is entirely driven by gluten exposure. The gut lesions observed in these patients disappeared upon removal of gluten from the diet
Show answer and rationale
Correct answer: C — The disease is mainly caused by an abnormal innate response to gluten while adaptive cells are not involved
The correct answer is C because celiac disease primarily involves an abnormal adaptive immune response to gluten, not an innate response. Here's the rationale: 1) Celiac disease is characterized by a T-cell mediated response to gluten peptides in genetically susceptible individuals. 2) The adaptive immune system, particularly T cells, plays a crucial role in the pathogenesis by recognizing gluten peptides presented by HLA-DQ2 or HLA-DQ8 molecules. 3) This adaptive immune response leads to inflammation and damage to the intestinal mucosa. 4) In contrast, the innate immune system may also be activated, but it is not the primary driver of the disease.
Summary:
A: Correct - There is a strong genetic association with HLA alleles.
B: Incorrect - Celiac disease is primarily driven by an adaptive immune response, not just features of autoimmunity.
D: Incorrect - While gluten exposure triggers the immune response, the disease is not solely driven by gluten intake.
Question 3
Which epidermal layer is lacking within the skin of the head and torso?
A. stratum spinosum
B. stratum corneum
C. stratum granulosum
D. stratum lucidum
Show answer and rationale
Correct answer: D — stratum lucidum
The epidermis consists of multiple layers, but not all are present in every region of the body. The stratum lucidum, a thin, translucent layer of dead cells, is found only in thick skin, such as the palms and soles, where it lies between the stratum granulosum and stratum corneum. It is absent in thin skin, which covers the head, torso, and most of the body, where the epidermis transitions directly from the stratum granulosum to the stratum corneum. The stratum spinosum provides strength, the stratum corneum serves as the protective outer barrier, and the stratum granulosum aids in keratinization all present in both thick and thin skin. The stratum germinativum, though not an option here, is universal as the basal layer. The absence of the stratum lucidum in thin skin reflects its adaptation to less mechanical stress, unlike the thickened, friction-resistant skin of the hands and feet. Thus, the layer missing from the head and torso is the stratum lucidum.
Question 4
Which epidermal layer is lacking within the skin of the head and torso?
A. stratum spinosum
B. stratum corneum
C. stratum granulosum
D. stratum lucidum
Show answer and rationale
Correct answer: D — stratum lucidum
The epidermis consists of multiple layers, but not all are present in every region of the body. The stratum lucidum, a thin, translucent layer of dead cells, is found only in thick skin, such as the palms and soles, where it lies between the stratum granulosum and stratum corneum. It is absent in thin skin, which covers the head, torso, and most of the body, where the epidermis transitions directly from the stratum granulosum to the stratum corneum. The stratum spinosum provides strength, the stratum corneum serves as the protective outer barrier, and the stratum granulosum aids in keratinization all present in both thick and thin skin. The stratum germinativum, though not an option here, is universal as the basal layer. The absence of the stratum lucidum in thin skin reflects its adaptation to less mechanical stress, unlike the thickened, friction-resistant skin of the hands and feet. Thus, the layer missing from the head and torso is the stratum lucidum.
Question 5
Which epidermal layer is lacking within the skin of the head and torso?
A. stratum spinosum
B. stratum corneum
C. stratum granulosum
D. stratum lucidum
Show answer and rationale
Correct answer: D — stratum lucidum
The epidermis consists of multiple layers, but not all are present in every region of the body. The stratum lucidum, a thin, translucent layer of dead cells, is found only in thick skin, such as the palms and soles, where it lies between the stratum granulosum and stratum corneum. It is absent in thin skin, which covers the head, torso, and most of the body, where the epidermis transitions directly from the stratum granulosum to the stratum corneum. The stratum spinosum provides strength, the stratum corneum serves as the protective outer barrier, and the stratum granulosum aids in keratinization all present in both thick and thin skin. The stratum germinativum, though not an option here, is universal as the basal layer. The absence of the stratum lucidum in thin skin reflects its adaptation to less mechanical stress, unlike the thickened, friction-resistant skin of the hands and feet. Thus, the layer missing from the head and torso is the stratum lucidum.
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.
Stems and choices stay public so you can still reason. Correct answers and full rationales unlock with the rest of the bank.
Question 6
A patient receiving palliative care for end-stage liver disease develops hepatic encephalopathy, presenting with confusion and altered mental status. What intervention should the palliative nurse prioritize to manage the patient's symptoms?
A. Administer lactulose or other ammonia-lowering agents to reduce ammonia levels.
B. Initiate intravenous fluid therapy to correct electrolyte imbalances.
C. Refer the patient to a neurologist for evaluation and treatment of encephalopathy.
D. Prescribe sedative medications to promote sleep and reduce agitation.
Correct answer:
The most appropriate intervention for managing hepatic encephalopathy in this patient receiving palliative care for end-stage liver disease is to administer lactulose or other ammonia-lowering agents to reduce ammonia levels. Hepatic encephalopathy is believed to be primarily caused by the accumulation of ammonia in the bloodstream due to compromised liver function. Lactulose works by acidifying the gut lumen, which facilitates the excretion of ammonia in the form of ammonium ions. By reducing ammonia levels, hepatic encephalopathy symptoms, such as confusion and altered mental status, can be improved. Initiating other supportive measures like managing precipitating factors, maintaining hydration, and addressing nutritional issues should also be part of the holistic approach in managing hepatic encephalopathy in palliative care. However, addressing the underlying cause by reducing ammonia levels with lactulose is the priority intervention in this scenario.
A client is being administered the first dose of belimumab for a systemic lupus erythematosus flare. What actions by the nurse are most appropriate? (Select one that does not apply.)
A. Observe the client for at least 2 hours afterward.
B. Instruct the client about the monthly infusion schedule.
C. Inform the client not to drive or sign legal papers for 24 hours.
D. Ensure emergency equipment is working and nearby.
Correct answer:
The correct answer is C: Inform the client not to drive or sign legal papers for 24 hours. This is because belimumab can cause dizziness and fatigue as side effects, which may impair the client's ability to drive or make important decisions. It is crucial for the nurse to ensure the safety of the client and others by advising against these activities for 24 hours post-administration.
Choice A: Observing the client for at least 2 hours is important for monitoring immediate adverse reactions, but it is not the most appropriate action in this scenario.
Choice B: Instructing the client about the monthly infusion schedule is important for treatment adherence, but it is not the most immediate concern after the first dose administration.
Choice D: Ensuring emergency equipment is working and nearby is important for safety precautions, but advising the client not to drive or sign legal papers is more directly related to the potential side effects of belimumab.
The correct answer is B: Systemic release of vasoactive mediators. Anaphylaxis is a severe allergic reaction that is primarily caused by the systemic release of vasoactive mediators such as histamine, prostaglandins, and leukotrienes from mast cells and basophils. These mediators lead to widespread vasodilation, increased vascular permeability, bronchoconstriction, and systemic hypotension, resulting in the characteristic symptoms of anaphylaxis.
Choice A (Immune complex deposition) is incorrect because anaphylaxis is not caused by the deposition of immune complexes but rather by the immediate hypersensitivity reaction.
Choice C (Localized mast cell degranulation) is incorrect because anaphylaxis involves systemic mast cell degranulation leading to widespread effects throughout the body, not just localized reactions.
Choice D (T cell activation) is incorrect because anaphylaxis is primarily mediated by IgE antibodies and mast cells, not T cells.
In preparation for his getting out of bed to walk, you are applying an elastic bandage to Mr. Moore’s freshly healed burned leg to provide good venous return and prevent blistering of the new skin. It is most important to
A. use a figure-8 style of wrap at the ankle and knee
B. leave the heel exposed
C. apply loosely to avoid constriction of circulation
D. remove the bandage as soon as he starts to walk
Correct answer:
The correct answer is B: leave the heel exposed. This is important because when applying an elastic bandage to a freshly healed burned leg, leaving the heel exposed helps to prevent constriction of circulation and allows for proper venous return. By leaving the heel exposed, pressure is not applied directly to the Achilles tendon or the heel area, which could impede circulation and cause discomfort. This also helps to prevent blistering of the new skin by ensuring proper blood flow and reducing the risk of pressure ulcers.
Choice A is incorrect because a figure-8 style of wrap may not provide the necessary support and could potentially constrict circulation. Choice C is incorrect because applying the bandage too loosely may not provide the required support and could lead to inadequate compression. Choice D is incorrect because removing the bandage as soon as the patient starts to walk can compromise the healing process and increase the risk of injury.
Select incorrect mechanism for the development of autoimmune disorder.
A. A second exposure to an allergen.
B. Cross-reaction of antibodies formed against foreign antigens with self-antigens.
C. Exposure of previously 'hidden' self-antigens to the adaptive immune system.
D. Mutation followed by the appearance of membrane proteins not previously present.
Correct answer:
The correct answer is A. A second exposure to an allergen does not lead to the development of autoimmune disorders. The key mechanisms involved in autoimmune disorders are self-tolerance breakdown and immune system attacking self-antigens.
Explanation:
1. B: Cross-reaction of antibodies formed against foreign antigens with self-antigens is a possible mechanism for autoimmune disorders.
2. C: Exposure of previously 'hidden' self-antigens to the adaptive immune system can trigger autoimmune responses.
3. D: Mutation followed by the appearance of membrane proteins not previously present can lead to autoimmune disorders, as the immune system may recognize these proteins as foreign.
Summary:
Choice A is incorrect because a second exposure to an allergen does not cause the immune system to target self-antigens, which is the hallmark of autoimmune disorders. Choices B, C, and D are more plausible mechanisms for the development of autoimmune disorders.
The correct answer is B: Systemic release of vasoactive mediators. Anaphylaxis is a severe allergic reaction that is primarily caused by the systemic release of vasoactive mediators such as histamine, prostaglandins, and leukotrienes from mast cells and basophils. These mediators lead to widespread vasodilation, increased vascular permeability, bronchoconstriction, and systemic hypotension, resulting in the characteristic symptoms of anaphylaxis.
Choice A (Immune complex deposition) is incorrect because anaphylaxis is not caused by the deposition of immune complexes but rather by the immediate hypersensitivity reaction.
Choice C (Localized mast cell degranulation) is incorrect because anaphylaxis involves systemic mast cell degranulation leading to widespread effects throughout the body, not just localized reactions.
Choice D (T cell activation) is incorrect because anaphylaxis is primarily mediated by IgE antibodies and mast cells, not T cells.
Which of the following is true of bladder retraining?
A. The NA should encourage the resident to drink plenty of fluids even if incontinence is a problem.
B. The NA does not need to keep a record of the resident's bladder habits.
C. The NA does not need to wear gloves when handling body wastes.
D. The NA should let the resident know when he is taking too long to urinate.
Correct answer:
Rationale for Correct Answer A: Bladder retraining involves encouraging regular bathroom visits and adequate fluid intake to improve bladder control. By encouraging the resident to drink plenty of fluids, even if incontinence is a problem, the bladder can be trained to hold urine for longer periods, reducing the frequency of accidents.
Summary of Incorrect Choices:
B: Keeping a record of the resident's bladder habits is essential in bladder retraining to track progress and identify patterns. Not keeping a record would hinder the effectiveness of the retraining process.
C: Wearing gloves when handling body wastes is crucial for infection control and preventing the spread of pathogens. Not wearing gloves poses health risks to both the NA and the resident.
D: It is not the NA's role to dictate the resident's urination time. The focus should be on encouraging proper bladder habits, not pressuring the resident, which can lead to anxiety and worsen the issue.
In preparation for his getting out of bed to walk, you are applying an elastic bandage to Mr. Moore’s freshly healed burned leg to provide good venous return and prevent blistering of the new skin. It is most important to
A. use a figure-8 style of wrap at the ankle and knee
B. leave the heel exposed
C. apply loosely to avoid constriction of circulation
D. remove the bandage as soon as he starts to walk
Correct answer:
The correct answer is B: leave the heel exposed. This is important because when applying an elastic bandage to a freshly healed burned leg, leaving the heel exposed helps to prevent constriction of circulation and allows for proper venous return. By leaving the heel exposed, pressure is not applied directly to the Achilles tendon or the heel area, which could impede circulation and cause discomfort. This also helps to prevent blistering of the new skin by ensuring proper blood flow and reducing the risk of pressure ulcers.
Choice A is incorrect because a figure-8 style of wrap may not provide the necessary support and could potentially constrict circulation. Choice C is incorrect because applying the bandage too loosely may not provide the required support and could lead to inadequate compression. Choice D is incorrect because removing the bandage as soon as the patient starts to walk can compromise the healing process and increase the risk of injury.
A nurse is preparing to assist with a transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP) procedure for a patient with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). What action should the nurse prioritize to prevent fluid overload during TURP?
A. Monitoring the patient's serum electrolyte levels during the procedure
B. Administering diuretic medications to the patient before the procedure
C. Limiting the duration of irrigation fluid instillation during TURP
D. Adjusting the irrigation fluid temperature to promote hemostasis
Correct answer:
During a transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP), fluid irrigation is commonly used to distend the bladder and flush out tissue debris. However, it is important to prioritize preventing fluid overload in the patient. Limiting the duration of irrigation fluid instillation is a crucial action to prevent excessive fluid absorption and subsequent fluid overload. Prolonged irrigation may lead to an increased risk of fluid overload and electrolyte imbalances, which can result in serious complications such as hyponatremia and fluid volume excess. Monitoring the patient's serum electrolyte levels can be important, but limiting the duration of irrigation is a more immediate and proactive measure to prevent fluid overload. Administering diuretic medications before the procedure may not be appropriate without assessing the patient's specific fluid status and needs. Adjusting the irrigation fluid temperature, while important for hemostasis, does not directly
The nurse has access to the results of a karyotype sent out for their patient via an electronic medical record. The parents have accessed the results on their MyChart phone application and have asked the nurse what the results 45, X mean. What is the best response from the nurse?
A. The results indicate your child may have Turner syndrome.
B. Your results are 45, X; you will have to wait to talk with the geneticist.
C. Your results indicate that your daughter has a serious lifelong disease.
D. I’m not sure; I’ll call the provider.
Correct answer:
The correct answer is A: The results indicate your child may have Turner syndrome. This is the best response because 45, X is the karyotype typically associated with Turner syndrome, a genetic condition where a female is missing part or all of one X chromosome. This response shows the nurse's knowledge of genetics and ability to interpret karyotype results accurately.
Summary of incorrect choices:
B: Your results are 45, X; you will have to wait to talk with the geneticist - This response delays providing crucial information to the parents and does not address their immediate concerns.
C: Your results indicate that your daughter has a serious lifelong disease - This choice is too vague and alarming, lacking specificity about the condition associated with the karyotype results.
D: I’m not sure; I’ll call the provider - This response shows a lack of knowledge on the nurse's part and does not offer any immediate information or reassurance to the parents.
RN exams medical-surgical practice questions, set 12 for nursing students in the United States. Fifteen items. Five include answers and rationales in American English.
No. Nursier is independent practice. Register through the official path named on the RN exams exam guide.
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.