RN exams medical-surgical practice questions, set 3
RN exams · medical-surgical
RN exams medical-surgical practice questionsset 3
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 patient is prescribed an opioid analgesic for postoperative pain management. Which nursing intervention is essential for preventing respiratory depression in the patient?
A. Administering naloxone prophylactically
B. Monitoring oxygen saturation with pulse oximetry
C. Encouraging deep breathing exercises
D. Administering bronchodilators as needed
Show answer and rationale
Correct answer: B — Monitoring oxygen saturation with pulse oximetry
Monitoring oxygen saturation with pulse oximetry is essential for preventing respiratory depression in a patient prescribed an opioid analgesic. Opioid analgesics can suppress the respiratory drive, leading to respiratory depression. By constantly monitoring the patient's oxygen saturation levels with pulse oximetry, nurses can promptly detect any signs of respiratory depression and intervene early to prevent serious complications. This allows for timely adjustments in the medication dosage or administration of other supportive measures to maintain adequate oxygenation and prevent respiratory compromise. Administering naloxone prophylactically may be necessary in case of an opioid overdose but is not typically done as a preventive measure. Encouraging deep breathing exercises can help prevent respiratory complications postoperatively but may not be sufficient in the presence of opioid-induced respiratory depression. Administering bronchodilators as needed is not directly related to preventing respiratory depression caused by opioid analgesics.
Question 2
Your adult patient has sustained a blunt force, closed head injury while playing football at a family reunion. Which of the following symptoms leads you to believe the patient is suffering from an epidural hematoma?
A. Goose egg' noted on patient's head
B. The patient is unconscious when you arrive on the scene and remains that way throughout transport
C. The patient lost consciousness immediately following the injury, but regained consciousness quickly. He lost consciousness again just prior to calling 911.
D. Sudden, severe headache
Show answer and rationale
Correct answer: C — The patient lost consciousness immediately following the injury, but regained consciousness quickly. He lost consciousness again just prior to calling 911.
The correct answer is C because the patient lost consciousness immediately following the injury, then quickly regained consciousness, but lost consciousness again just before calling 911. This pattern of lucid intervals followed by a deteriorating level of consciousness is indicative of an epidural hematoma. The initial loss of consciousness is due to the initial trauma causing bleeding between the skull and the dura mater, leading to increased intracranial pressure. The temporary regaining of consciousness occurs when the hematoma temporarily stops expanding before resuming bleeding, causing a decline in consciousness again.
Summary:
A: A 'goose egg' noted on the patient's head is more indicative of a scalp hematoma or soft tissue injury, not necessarily an epidural hematoma.
B: The patient being unconscious throughout transport could indicate a severe brain injury, but the specific pattern described in option C is more characteristic of an epidural hematoma.
D: A sudden, severe headache may be a symptom of various head injuries, but it is
Question 3
A client is placed on a mechanical ventilator following a cerebral hemorrhage, and vecuronium bromide (Norcuron) 0.04 mg/kg q12 hours IV is prescribed. What is the priority nursing diagnosis for this client?
A. Impaired communication related to paralysis of skeletal muscles.
B. High risk for infection related to increased intracranial pressure.
C. Potential for injury related to impaired lung expansion.
D. Social isolation related to inability to communicate.
Show answer and rationale
Correct answer: A — Impaired communication related to paralysis of skeletal muscles.
The priority nursing diagnosis for a client on a mechanical ventilator receiving vecuronium bromide is 'Impaired communication related to paralysis of skeletal muscles.' Vecuronium is a skeletal muscle relaxant that causes diaphragmatic paralysis, leading to the inability of the client to communicate effectively. This is a crucial nursing concern as it impacts the client's ability to express needs and participate in care. Option B 'High risk for infection related to increased intracranial pressure' is not the priority in this scenario as the client's condition is related to the effects of the medication and mechanical ventilation, not directly to increased intracranial pressure. Option C 'Potential for injury related to impaired lung expansion' is important but not the priority over impaired communication. Option D 'Social isolation related to inability to communicate' is not the priority nursing diagnosis in this situation as it focuses more on psychosocial aspects rather than the immediate physiological concern of communication impairment.
Question 4
What is the main difference between the clonal selection theory proposed by MacFarlane Burnet and the selection theory proposed by Paul Ehrlich?
A. Ehrlich proposed that structure complementarity between antigens and receptors is crucial for a specific response whereas Burnet overlooked the issue of specificity
B. Ehrlich proposed that each cell able to produce antibodies would express several receptors, each specific for different antigens whereas Burnet proposed that each single antibody-producing cell expresses only one type of receptors
C. Ehrlich thought that antibodies released from a cell were different from the receptors expressed on the same cell. Burnet thought that soluble antibodies and receptors produced by a single cell were identical
D. Ehrlich's theory lacks the concept of release of a soluble form of the antigen receptor, an idea elaborated for the first time by Burnet.
Show answer and rationale
Correct answer: B — Ehrlich proposed that each cell able to produce antibodies would express several receptors, each specific for different antigens whereas Burnet proposed that each single antibody-producing cell expresses only one type of receptors
The correct answer is B because Ehrlich proposed that each cell producing antibodies would express several receptors, each specific for different antigens, whereas Burnet proposed that each single antibody-producing cell expresses only one type of receptor. This is the main difference between the two theories. Ehrlich's concept of multiple receptors per cell allows for a broader range of specificity and diversity in the immune response. The other choices are incorrect because they do not directly address the main difference between the two theories as outlined above. Choice A is incorrect because both Ehrlich and Burnet emphasized the importance of specificity, but they differed in their views on receptor diversity per cell. Choice C is incorrect because it focuses on the identity of soluble antibodies and receptors, which is not the main differentiator between the two theories. Choice D is incorrect as it mentions the release of soluble antigen receptors, which is not the main point of differentiation between Ehrlich and Burnet's theories.
Question 5
What is the main difference between the clonal selection theory proposed by MacFarlane Burnet and the selection theory proposed by Paul Ehrlich?
A. Ehrlich proposed that structure complementarity between antigens and receptors is crucial for a specific response whereas Burnet overlooked the issue of specificity
B. Ehrlich proposed that each cell able to produce antibodies would express several receptors, each specific for different antigens whereas Burnet proposed that each single antibody-producing cell expresses only one type of receptors
C. Ehrlich thought that antibodies released from a cell were different from the receptors expressed on the same cell. Burnet thought that soluble antibodies and receptors produced by a single cell were identical
D. Ehrlich's theory lacks the concept of release of a soluble form of the antigen receptor, an idea elaborated for the first time by Burnet.
Show answer and rationale
Correct answer: B — Ehrlich proposed that each cell able to produce antibodies would express several receptors, each specific for different antigens whereas Burnet proposed that each single antibody-producing cell expresses only one type of receptors
The correct answer is B because Ehrlich proposed that each cell producing antibodies would express several receptors, each specific for different antigens, whereas Burnet proposed that each single antibody-producing cell expresses only one type of receptor. This is the main difference between the two theories. Ehrlich's concept of multiple receptors per cell allows for a broader range of specificity and diversity in the immune response. The other choices are incorrect because they do not directly address the main difference between the two theories as outlined above. Choice A is incorrect because both Ehrlich and Burnet emphasized the importance of specificity, but they differed in their views on receptor diversity per cell. Choice C is incorrect because it focuses on the identity of soluble antibodies and receptors, which is not the main differentiator between the two theories. Choice D is incorrect as it mentions the release of soluble antigen receptors, which is not the main point of differentiation between Ehrlich and Burnet's theories.
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Question 6
What is the main difference between the clonal selection theory proposed by MacFarlane Burnet and the selection theory proposed by Paul Ehrlich?
A. Ehrlich proposed that structure complementarity between antigens and receptors is crucial for a specific response whereas Burnet overlooked the issue of specificity
B. Ehrlich proposed that each cell able to produce antibodies would express several receptors, each specific for different antigens whereas Burnet proposed that each single antibody-producing cell expresses only one type of receptors
C. Ehrlich thought that antibodies released from a cell were different from the receptors expressed on the same cell. Burnet thought that soluble antibodies and receptors produced by a single cell were identical
D. Ehrlich's theory lacks the concept of release of a soluble form of the antigen receptor, an idea elaborated for the first time by Burnet.
Correct answer:
The correct answer is B because Ehrlich proposed that each cell producing antibodies would express several receptors, each specific for different antigens, whereas Burnet proposed that each single antibody-producing cell expresses only one type of receptor. This is the main difference between the two theories. Ehrlich's concept of multiple receptors per cell allows for a broader range of specificity and diversity in the immune response. The other choices are incorrect because they do not directly address the main difference between the two theories as outlined above. Choice A is incorrect because both Ehrlich and Burnet emphasized the importance of specificity, but they differed in their views on receptor diversity per cell. Choice C is incorrect because it focuses on the identity of soluble antibodies and receptors, which is not the main differentiator between the two theories. Choice D is incorrect as it mentions the release of soluble antigen receptors, which is not the main point of differentiation between Ehrlich and Burnet's theories.
When a nurse commits an error in the progress notes the BEST action she should do is to
A. cross the error many times to ensure it could no longer be road and sign
B. delete the erroneous phrase Or sentence using correction fluid and sign.
C. put a line across the sentence, make the correction over it and sign.
D. erase whatever is in error using a rubber eraser and sign
Correct answer:
The correct action in this scenario is to choose option C: put a line across the sentence, make the correction over it, and sign. This method is recommended because it maintains the integrity of the original record by showing what was initially written and clearly indicating the correction. By crossing out the error, making the correction, and signing the entry, the nurse acknowledges and takes responsibility for the mistake while ensuring the accuracy and transparency of the documentation.
Option A is incorrect as crossing the error many times can make the note illegible and may not clearly indicate the correction. Option B is incorrect because using correction fluid can make the note messy and may raise suspicions of tampering with the record. Option D is incorrect as erasing with a rubber eraser can damage the document and also raise concerns about the validity of the information.
In summary, option C is the best choice as it allows for a clear and professional correction without compromising the integrity of the progress notes.
The Epidermis forms from the germ layer, while the Dermis forms from the germ layer.
A. Ectoderm, Mesoderm
B. Mesoderm, Ectoderm
C. Endoderm, Mesoderm
D. Endoderm, Ectoderm
Correct answer:
During embryonic development, the integumentary system's layers arise from distinct germ layers. The epidermis, the outer skin layer, forms from the ectoderm, the outermost embryonic layer responsible for external structures like skin, hair, and nails. Ectodermal cells differentiate into stratified squamous epithelium, eventually keratinizing for protection. The dermis, beneath the epidermis, develops from the mesoderm, the middle germ layer that generates connective tissues, muscles, and blood vessels. Mesodermal cells form the dermis's collagen, elastic fibers, and vascular network, supporting the epidermis. The endoderm, forming internal linings like the gut, contributes neither to the epidermis nor dermis. Reversing the layers (mesoderm for epidermis, ectoderm for dermis) contradicts embryology, as does involving endoderm. This ectoderm-mesoderm pairing reflects their specialized roles ectoderm for barrier formation, mesoderm for structural support consistent with developmental biology and the integument's dual-layer functionality.
The nurse teaches the female patient receiving immune modulating drugs about the need to use barrier contraceptives. The patient says, I hate using barrier contraceptives. Why can't I just take oral contraceptives? What is the nurse's best response?
A. Effects of oral contraceptives may be altered by liver changes or changes in immune response.
B. Oral contraceptives increase the action of immune modulating drugs so dosage needs to be reduced.
C. Immune modulators make oral contraceptives ineffective because of hormonal impact of drugs.
D. Oral contraceptives are acceptable if barrier contraceptives are distasteful, but only high-estrogen pills can be used.
Correct answer:
The correct answer is A: Effects of oral contraceptives may be altered by liver changes or changes in immune response.
Rationale:
1. Immune modulating drugs can affect liver function, potentially altering the metabolism of oral contraceptives.
2. Liver changes can impact the effectiveness of oral contraceptives by either increasing or decreasing their levels in the body.
3. Changes in immune response can also interfere with the hormonal balance maintained by oral contraceptives, leading to decreased efficacy.
4. Barrier contraceptives are recommended to prevent unintended pregnancies due to the potential interactions between immune modulating drugs and oral contraceptives.
Summary of other choices:
B: Incorrect. Oral contraceptives do not increase the action of immune modulating drugs; they may interact with them due to changes in metabolism.
C: Incorrect. Immune modulators can affect oral contraceptives through liver metabolism rather than hormonal impact.
D: Incorrect. High-estrogen pills are not the only option if barrier contrace
A patient receiving palliative care for end-stage heart failure experiences severe fatigue and limited mobility. What intervention should the palliative nurse prioritize to promote the patient's comfort and quality of life?
A. Recommend initiating physical therapy to improve mobility and strength.
B. Encourage the patient to conserve energy and avoid unnecessary activities.
C. Prescribe stimulant medications to alleviate fatigue and increase energy levels.
D. Refer the patient to a nutritionist for dietary modifications to boost energy.
Correct answer:
In this scenario, the palliative nurse should prioritize encouraging the patient to conserve energy and avoid unnecessary activities (Option B). End-stage heart failure can lead to severe fatigue and limited mobility, making it essential for the patient to conserve energy to prevent exacerbating symptoms and improve quality of life. Engaging in physical therapy (Option A) may not be suitable for a patient experiencing severe fatigue, as it can further drain energy reserves. Prescribing stimulant medications (Option C) may have limited effectiveness and potential side effects. Referring the patient to a nutritionist for dietary modifications (Option D) is important for overall health but may not directly address the immediate comfort and quality of life concerns related to fatigue and limited mobility. Helping the patient prioritize energy conservation will allow them to use their limited energy for essential activities, leading to a more comfortable and fulfilling experience while receiving palliative care for end-stage heart failure.
A patient with a displaced femoral neck fracture is scheduled for surgical intervention. Which surgical procedure is most appropriate for this type of fracture?
A. Closed reduction and internal fixation (CRIF)
B. Open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF)
C. Closed reduction and external fixation (CREF)
D. Closed reduction alone
Correct answer:
For a displaced femoral neck fracture, the most appropriate surgical procedure is usually an open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF). This procedure involves making an incision to reposition the fractured bone fragments and securing them in place with screws or other fixation devices. ORIF allows for better alignment of the fracture, which is crucial for proper healing and minimizing the risk of complications like avascular necrosis or nonunion. Closed reduction and internal fixation (CRIF) may not be as effective for displaced femoral neck fractures due to the complex nature of the fracture and the need for precise realignment and stability provided by an open surgical approach. External fixation is less commonly used for femoral neck fractures and is typically reserved for certain specific cases where internal fixation is not feasible. Closed reduction alone is unlikely to provide adequate stability for a displaced femoral neck fracture and is generally not recommended as the primary surgical treatment for this type of injury.
A 29-year-old male is brought to the ED after being involved in a motor vehicular collision when his car struck a bridge abutment. He is intoxicated, has GCS 13, and complains of abdominal pain. His BP was 80mmHg systolic by palpation on admission, but rapidly increased to 110/70 with the administration of IV flui His heart rate is 120/min. The chest x-ray shows loss of aortic knob, widening of mediastinum, no rib fracture, and no hemopneumothorax. Contrast angiography:
A. "Is not indicated"
B. Should be performed after CT scan of the chest
C. Is positive for aortic rupture in 80% of similar cases
D. Is not necessary if the CT-scan of the chest is normal
Correct answer:
The correct answer is D because in this scenario, the patient presents with signs suspicious of aortic injury, indicated by the widened mediastinum on chest x-ray. However, the definitive test for aortic injury is a CT scan of the chest, which is more sensitive and specific than contrast angiography. If the CT scan is normal, it effectively rules out aortic injury, making further imaging with contrast angiography unnecessary. Performing angiography in this case would expose the patient to unnecessary risks without providing additional diagnostic value. Therefore, the correct approach is to first perform a CT scan of the chest, and if it is normal, no further imaging is required.
Choice A is incorrect as contrast angiography is indicated in suspected aortic injury cases. Choice B is incorrect as performing contrast angiography after a CT scan would be redundant and expose the patient to unnecessary risks. Choice C is incorrect as the accuracy of contrast angiography in diagnosing aortic rupture is not as high as indicated in the
A 29-year-old male is brought to the ED after being involved in a motor vehicular collision when his car struck a bridge abutment. He is intoxicated, has GCS 13, and complains of abdominal pain. His BP was 80mmHg systolic by palpation on admission, but rapidly increased to 110/70 with the administration of IV flui His heart rate is 120/min. The chest x-ray shows loss of aortic knob, widening of mediastinum, no rib fracture, and no hemopneumothorax. Contrast angiography:
A. "Is not indicated"
B. Should be performed after CT scan of the chest
C. Is positive for aortic rupture in 80% of similar cases
D. Is not necessary if the CT-scan of the chest is normal
Correct answer:
The correct answer is D because in this scenario, the patient presents with signs suspicious of aortic injury, indicated by the widened mediastinum on chest x-ray. However, the definitive test for aortic injury is a CT scan of the chest, which is more sensitive and specific than contrast angiography. If the CT scan is normal, it effectively rules out aortic injury, making further imaging with contrast angiography unnecessary. Performing angiography in this case would expose the patient to unnecessary risks without providing additional diagnostic value. Therefore, the correct approach is to first perform a CT scan of the chest, and if it is normal, no further imaging is required.
Choice A is incorrect as contrast angiography is indicated in suspected aortic injury cases. Choice B is incorrect as performing contrast angiography after a CT scan would be redundant and expose the patient to unnecessary risks. Choice C is incorrect as the accuracy of contrast angiography in diagnosing aortic rupture is not as high as indicated in the
A client is admitted with a burn injury that involves the epidermis and part of the dermis. The nurse knows that this type of burn is classified as:
A. Superficial
B. Partial-thickness
C. Full-thickness
D. Deep partial-thickness
Correct answer:
A burn involving the epidermis and part of the dermis is classified as a partial-thickness burn, making choice B the correct answer. This type of burn typically presents with blisters, significant pain due to exposed nerve endings, and redness as blood vessels in the dermis are affected. It may heal spontaneously within two to three weeks with proper care or require skin grafting if deeper layers are involved. Superficial burns only affect the epidermis, causing mild pain and erythema without blisters, and heal quickly within days without scarring. Full-thickness burns extend through the epidermis, dermis, and into underlying tissues like fat or muscle, resulting in a charred appearance, no pain due to nerve destruction, and the need for surgical intervention. Deep partial-thickness burns involve most of the dermis, presenting with white or red skin and severe pain, often requiring grafting due to slower healing. The distinction lies in the depth of tissue involvement, and partial-thickness best matches the description provided.
A patient expresses frustration with the treatment plan proposed by the healthcare team. What is the most appropriate response from the nurse?
A. Dismiss the patient's concerns and assure them that the treatment plan is the best option.
B. Empathize with the patient's frustration and explore their concerns further.
C. Ignore the patient's frustration and proceed with implementing the treatment plan.
D. Tell the patient that they have no choice but to follow the treatment plan.
Correct answer:
The most appropriate response from the nurse when a patient expresses frustration with the treatment plan proposed by the healthcare team is to empathize with the patient's frustration and explore their concerns further. It is important to actively listen to the patient, acknowledge their feelings, and address any questions or uncertainties they may have about the treatment plan. By engaging in open communication and demonstrating empathy, the nurse can foster a therapeutic relationship with the patient and work towards finding a solution that is mutually agreeable and beneficial for the patient's well-being. Dismissing the patient's concerns (Option A) or ignoring their frustration (Option C) can lead to a breakdown in communication and trust, which may ultimately impact the patient's compliance with the treatment plan. Similarly, telling the patient that they have no choice but to follow the treatment plan (Option D) can be perceived as dismissive and confrontational, which is not conducive to promoting patient-centered care.
RN exams medical-surgical practice questions, set 3 for nursing students in the United States. Fifteen items. Five include answers and rationales in American English.
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