RN exams medical-surgical practice questions, set 16
RN exams · medical-surgical
RN exams medical-surgical practice questionsset 16
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
The nurse is caring for a young adult woman taking immune modulating medications who has been advised to use barrier contraceptives but she wants to start her family. What information can the nurse provide about these drugs to help this patient with her decision-making?
A. Discuss the desire to start a family with the provider so risk can be minimized.
B. Immune modulating drugs will need to be discontinued if pregnancy occurs.
C. Immune modulating drugs have been proven to be highly teratogenic.
D. Pregnancy is not an option when taking immune modulating drugs but adoption is an option.
Show answer and rationale
Correct answer: A — Discuss the desire to start a family with the provider so risk can be minimized.
The correct answer is A because it encourages open communication between the patient, nurse, and provider to ensure the best possible outcome for both the patient's health and desire to start a family. By discussing the desire to start a family with the provider, the risks associated with immune modulating medications can be assessed, and appropriate steps can be taken to minimize these risks. This approach allows for personalized care and decision-making based on the individual's specific situation.
Choice B is incorrect because discontinuing immune modulating drugs without proper guidance can have negative consequences for the patient's health. Choice C is incorrect because while some immune modulating drugs may have teratogenic effects, not all drugs in this class are equally harmful. Choice D is incorrect as it presents a limited view that pregnancy is not an option without considering individual circumstances and medical advice.
Question 2
What is one of the immune system's critical functions in cancer?
A. Promoting cell growth
B. Fighting cancer by targeting abnormal cells
C. Enhancing pathogen resistance
D. Stimulating autoimmune responses
Show answer and rationale
Correct answer: B — Fighting cancer by targeting abnormal cells
The correct answer is B: Fighting cancer by targeting abnormal cells. The immune system plays a crucial role in cancer by identifying and eliminating abnormal cells that can develop into tumors. This process is known as immunosurveillance. Through mechanisms like T cells and natural killer cells, the immune system can detect and destroy cancerous cells before they can grow and spread. This function is essential in preventing the development and progression of cancer.
Choices A, C, and D are incorrect:
A: Promoting cell growth - The immune system does not promote cell growth in cancer; rather, it regulates and suppresses the growth of abnormal cells.
C: Enhancing pathogen resistance - While the immune system does enhance resistance against pathogens, this is not its critical function in cancer.
D: Stimulating autoimmune responses - Autoimmune responses involve the immune system attacking healthy cells, not targeting cancerous cells.
Question 3
Select the medication that should be discussed by the nurse with the attending physician before administering it to patient with acute angle closure glaucoma
A. Isoptocarpineeyedrops
B. Mannitol
C. Corticosporin ophthalmic
D. Atropine
Show answer and rationale
Correct answer: D — Atropine
The correct answer is D: Atropine. Atropine is a mydriatic agent that can exacerbate acute angle closure glaucoma by dilating the pupil and potentially worsening the condition. The nurse should discuss with the attending physician before administering it to avoid worsening the patient's condition.
A: Isopto carpine eye drops are actually used in the treatment of acute angle closure glaucoma as they help in lowering intraocular pressure, so there is no need to discuss this with the physician.
B: Mannitol is used as an osmotic diuretic to reduce intraocular pressure in acute angle closure glaucoma, and it does not directly affect the pupil, so it does not require discussion with the physician before administration.
C: Corticosporin ophthalmic is a combination of an antibiotic and a corticosteroid used to treat eye infections and inflammation, but it does not have a direct effect on worsening acute angle closure glaucoma, so it does
Question 4
The structure partly responsible for 'goosebumps' is known as the ...
A. Sebaceous Gland
B. Arrector Pili Muscle
C. Cappilary
D. Collagen
Show answer and rationale
Correct answer: B — Arrector Pili Muscle
Goosebumps occur when small muscles attached to hair follicles contract, causing hairs to stand upright and skin to pucker. These are the arrector pili muscles, smooth muscles in the dermis anchored to the hair follicle base and the epidermal-dermal junction. When stimulated by cold or emotion (via the sympathetic nervous system), they contract, pulling hairs erect, an evolutionary vestige from furrier ancestors to trap heat or signal threat. Sebaceous glands secrete sebum to lubricate hair and skin, not to cause goosebumps. 'Cappilary' (likely a typo for capillary) refers to blood vessels, which adjust for temperature but don't directly produce goosebumps. Collagen provides dermal strength but is a passive fiber, not a muscle. The arrector pili's action is involuntary, linked to thermoregulation and emotional response, and its distinct role in piloerection visible as goosebumps sets it apart as the key structure in this phenomenon.
Question 5
The structure partly responsible for 'goosebumps' is known as the ...
A. Sebaceous Gland
B. Arrector Pili Muscle
C. Cappilary
D. Collagen
Show answer and rationale
Correct answer: B — Arrector Pili Muscle
Goosebumps occur when small muscles attached to hair follicles contract, causing hairs to stand upright and skin to pucker. These are the arrector pili muscles, smooth muscles in the dermis anchored to the hair follicle base and the epidermal-dermal junction. When stimulated by cold or emotion (via the sympathetic nervous system), they contract, pulling hairs erect, an evolutionary vestige from furrier ancestors to trap heat or signal threat. Sebaceous glands secrete sebum to lubricate hair and skin, not to cause goosebumps. 'Cappilary' (likely a typo for capillary) refers to blood vessels, which adjust for temperature but don't directly produce goosebumps. Collagen provides dermal strength but is a passive fiber, not a muscle. The arrector pili's action is involuntary, linked to thermoregulation and emotional response, and its distinct role in piloerection visible as goosebumps sets it apart as the key structure in this phenomenon.
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Question 6
Which tissue is located in the region labelled '2'?
A. Reticular connective tissue
B. Areolar connective tissue
C. Stratified squamous epithelium
D. Cartilage and blood
Correct answer:
The correct answer is B: Areolar connective tissue. In the image, region '2' appears loose and has fibroblasts, collagen fibers, and elastic fibers, typical of areolar connective tissue. Areolar tissue is a loose connective tissue that provides support and elasticity.
Rationale:
1. Areolar connective tissue is characterized by loose arrangement of cells and fibers, providing support and elasticity.
2. Presence of fibroblasts, collagen fibers, and elastic fibers in region '2' matches the characteristics of areolar connective tissue.
3. Areolar tissue is commonly found beneath the epithelial layers and around blood vessels and organs, supporting the body and connecting different tissues.
Summary:
A: Reticular connective tissue is more densely packed with reticular fibers and is found in organs like the spleen and lymph nodes.
C: Stratified squamous epithelium is a type of epithelial tissue, which is not seen in region '2'.
The structure partly responsible for 'goosebumps' is known as the ...
A. Sebaceous Gland
B. Arrector Pili Muscle
C. Cappilary
D. Collagen
Correct answer:
Goosebumps occur when small muscles attached to hair follicles contract, causing hairs to stand upright and skin to pucker. These are the arrector pili muscles, smooth muscles in the dermis anchored to the hair follicle base and the epidermal-dermal junction. When stimulated by cold or emotion (via the sympathetic nervous system), they contract, pulling hairs erect, an evolutionary vestige from furrier ancestors to trap heat or signal threat. Sebaceous glands secrete sebum to lubricate hair and skin, not to cause goosebumps. 'Cappilary' (likely a typo for capillary) refers to blood vessels, which adjust for temperature but don't directly produce goosebumps. Collagen provides dermal strength but is a passive fiber, not a muscle. The arrector pili's action is involuntary, linked to thermoregulation and emotional response, and its distinct role in piloerection visible as goosebumps sets it apart as the key structure in this phenomenon.
A newly graduated RN is in the third week of orientation to the medical-surgical unit. Which client is best for you, as charge nurse, to assign to the new graduate?
A. A 34-year-old who was just admitted to the unit with periorbital cellulitis
B. A 40-year-old who needs discharge instructions after having skin grafts to the right thigh
C. A 67-year-old who has a dressing change scheduled after hydrotherapy for a stage 3 pressure ulcer
D. A 78-year-old who needs teaching before a punch biopsy of a facial lesion
Correct answer:
The correct answer is A because a patient with periorbital cellulitis requires close monitoring and immediate intervention due to the risk of complications such as vision loss or intracranial involvement. This assignment will provide the new graduate with an opportunity to develop critical thinking skills and prioritize care for a potentially unstable patient.
Choice B is incorrect because a patient needing discharge instructions after skin grafts is usually stable and may not require acute interventions, making it less suitable for a new graduate.
Choice C is incorrect because a dressing change for a stage 3 pressure ulcer post-hydrotherapy is a routine procedure that may not challenge the new graduate's critical thinking skills or require immediate interventions.
Choice D is incorrect as teaching before a punch biopsy is important but not as time-sensitive or critical compared to managing a patient with periorbital cellulitis.
A patient with a chronic viral infection demonstrates persistently elevated levels of CD8+ cytotoxic T cells in their blood. Which of the following mechanisms is most likely responsible for this observation?
A. Activation-induced cell death (AICD)
B. T cell exhaustion
C. Thymic involution
D. Antigenic variation
Correct answer:
T cell exhaustion is a state of T cell dysfunction that arises during chronic viral infections or cancer. In the case of a chronic viral infection, the persistent exposure to viral antigens leads to continuous stimulation of CD8+ cytotoxic T cells. Over time, this sustained stimulation can lead to T cell exhaustion, characterized by the upregulation of inhibitory receptors, impaired effector functions, and reduced proliferative capacity. As a result, despite the elevated levels of CD8+ T cells in the blood, their function may be compromised, ultimately impacting the immune response against the viral infection. In contrast, activation-induced cell death (AICD) may contribute to T cell loss during chronic infections but would not explain the persistently elevated CD8+ T cell levels. Thymic involution refers to the age-related decline in thymus function, which is not directly related to the observed increase in CD8+ T cells. Antigenic
Which of the following interventions is most appropriate for a patient experiencing an acute asthma exacerbation with severe respiratory distress and hypoxemia?
A. Administration of high-flow oxygen via nasal cannula
B. Initiation of non-invasive positive pressure ventilation (NIPPV)
C. Nebulized albuterol/ipratropium combination therapy
D. Intravenous corticosteroid therapy
Correct answer:
In a patient experiencing an acute asthma exacerbation with severe respiratory distress and hypoxemia, the most appropriate intervention is to initiate non-invasive positive pressure ventilation (NIPPV). NIPPV can help improve ventilation, decrease work of breathing, and correct hypoxemia by providing positive pressure to keep the airways open, reduce air trapping, and increase the elimination of carbon dioxide. This intervention can help improve oxygenation and reduce the need for invasive mechanical ventilation in patients with severe asthma exacerbations. Administering high-flow oxygen via nasal cannula alone may not provide enough support for patients with severe respiratory distress. Nebulized albuterol/ipratropium combination therapy and intravenous corticosteroid therapy are also important treatments for asthma exacerbations but are not the first-line interventions for patients with severe respiratory distress and hypoxemia.
The nurse is writing a plan of care for a patient receiving immune suppressants for leukemia. What would be an appropriate nursing diagnosis for this patient?
A. Anxiety related to diagnosis and drug therapy
B. Acute pain related to central nervous system (CNS), gastrointestinal (GI), and flu-like effects
C. Risk for infection related to immune stimulation
D. Imbalanced nutrition: More than body requirements
Correct answer:
The correct answer is B: Acute pain related to central nervous system (CNS), gastrointestinal (GI), and flu-like effects. This is the most appropriate nursing diagnosis because immune suppressants commonly cause side effects like pain in the CNS, GI disturbances, and flu-like symptoms. The priority is to address the patient's immediate discomfort and provide appropriate pain management.
Choice A (Anxiety related to diagnosis and drug therapy) may be a valid concern for the patient, but addressing acute pain is more urgent in this case.
Choice C (Risk for infection related to immune stimulation) is incorrect because immune suppressants actually increase the risk of infection due to decreased immune response.
Choice D (Imbalanced nutrition: More than body requirements) is not the most relevant nursing diagnosis for a patient receiving immune suppressants. Pain management takes precedence over addressing nutrition concerns.
A patient is brought to the emergency department experiencing a possible stroke. What initial diagnostic test for a stroke , usually performed in the emergency department would the nurse prepare the patient for?
A. 12-lead electrocardiogram
B. Carotid ultrasound study
C. Noncontrast computed tomography
D. Transcranial Doppler flow study
Correct answer:
In the emergency department setting, the initial diagnostic test typically performed for a patient suspected of having a stroke is a noncontrast computed tomography (CT) scan of the head. This imaging study is crucial in evaluating and diagnosing stroke because it can quickly identify whether the person is having a hemorrhagic stroke (bleeding in the brain) or an ischemic stroke (blood clot blocking a blood vessel). The results of the CT scan help guide immediate treatment decisions, such as administering clot-busting medications for ischemic strokes or preparing for surgical interventions for hemorrhagic strokes. Carotid ultrasound studies and transcranial Doppler flow studies may be performed after the initial CT scan to further assess the extent of damage and the underlying cause of the stroke. The 12-lead electrocardiogram is useful in assessing the heart's electrical activity but is not the primary test for diagnosing stroke.
Which one of the following statements regarding genitourinary injuries is true?
A. "Urethral injuries are associated with pelvic fractures"
B. All patients with microscopic hematuria require evaluation of genitourinary tract
C. Patients presenting with gross hematuria and shock will have a major renal injury as the source of hemorrhage
D. Intraperitoneal bladder injuries are usually managed definitively with a urinary catheter
Correct answer:
Rationale for Correct Answer A: "Urethral injuries are associated with pelvic fractures"
1. Urethral injuries are commonly seen in patients with pelvic fractures due to the close anatomical proximity and the mechanism of injury.
2. Pelvic fractures can cause direct trauma to the urethra, leading to urethral injuries.
3. Urethral injuries may present with blood at the meatus, inability to void, or high-riding prostate on rectal examination.
4. Prompt diagnosis and management are crucial to prevent complications such as urinary retention or urethral stricture.
Summary:
- Choice B is incorrect as not all patients with microscopic hematuria require genitourinary evaluation.
- Choice C is incorrect as gross hematuria and shock can be due to various causes, not solely major renal injuries.
- Choice D is incorrect as some intraperitoneal bladder injuries may require surgical intervention, not just urinary catheter placement.
The nurse is educating a patient with psoriasis. Which information is most important for the nurse to include in the teaching plan?
A. Liberally apply a lubricating cream three times daily.
B. Use a humidifier at night.
C. Use an alcohol-based cleanser in the morning.
D. Take hot baths to reduce skin discomfort.
Correct answer:
The correct answer is B: Use a humidifier at night. Psoriasis is a chronic skin condition characterized by dry, flaky skin. Using a humidifier at night helps to add moisture to the air, preventing further drying of the skin and reducing irritation. This is crucial in managing psoriasis symptoms.
Explanation of why other choices are incorrect:
A: Liberally apply a lubricating cream three times daily - While moisturizing is important for managing psoriasis, applying a lubricating cream too frequently may not be necessary and could potentially irritate the skin further.
C: Use an alcohol-based cleanser in the morning - Alcohol-based cleansers can be harsh on the skin and may exacerbate psoriasis symptoms by drying out the skin further.
D: Take hot baths to reduce skin discomfort - Hot baths can actually worsen psoriasis symptoms by stripping the skin of its natural oils and moisture, leading to further dryness and irritation.
Which of the following actions is appropriate for managing a conscious patient with a suspected stroke?
A. Administering aspirin immediately.
B. Placing the patient in a supine position.
C. Encouraging the patient to eat and drink.
D. Activating emergency medical services (EMS) for rapid transport to a stroke center.
Correct answer:
Activating emergency medical services (EMS) for rapid transport to a stroke center is the most appropriate action for managing a conscious patient with a suspected stroke. Time is critical in stroke care, and receiving specialized treatment at a stroke center as soon as possible can significantly improve outcomes for stroke patients. EMS providers are trained to recognize the signs of stroke and can begin essential pre-hospital care measures while en route to the hospital. Administering aspirin immediately is not recommended without medical evaluation, as certain types of strokes (such as hemorrhagic strokes) can be worsened by aspirin. Placing the patient in a supine position may not be ideal, as maintaining an elevated position can help prevent aspiration in stroke patients. Encouraging the patient to eat and drink is not appropriate, as swallowing difficulties are common in stroke patients and can lead to aspiration pneumonia.
RN exams medical-surgical practice questions, set 16 for nursing students in the United States. Fifteen items. Five include answers and rationales in American English.
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