RN exams medical-surgical practice questions, set 36
RN exams · medical-surgical
RN exams medical-surgical practice questionsset 36
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 54-yr-old woman who recently reached menopause and has a family history of osteoporosis is diagnosed with osteopenia following densitometry testing. In teaching the woman, the nurse explains that
A. with a family history of osteoporosis, there is no way to prevent or slow bone resorption.
B. estrogen replacement therapy must be started to prevent rapid progression to osteoporosis.
C. continuous, low-dose corticosteroid treatment is effective in stopping the course of osteoporosis.
D. calcium loss from bones can be slowed by increasing calcium intake and weight-bearing exercise.
Show answer and rationale
Correct answer: D — calcium loss from bones can be slowed by increasing calcium intake and weight-bearing exercise.
The correct answer is D. Increasing calcium intake and weight-bearing exercise can help slow calcium loss from bones, which is crucial in managing osteopenia and preventing progression to osteoporosis. Calcium is essential for bone health, and weight-bearing exercises help strengthen bones.
A: Incorrect. Family history of osteoporosis does not mean it cannot be prevented or slowed down. Lifestyle modifications can help manage the condition.
B: Incorrect. Estrogen replacement therapy is not the only option for managing osteopenia. It may have risks and benefits that should be discussed with a healthcare provider.
C: Incorrect. Corticosteroid treatment is not typically recommended for osteopenia or osteoporosis management. It can have adverse effects on bone health.
Question 2
What is the priority action for a patient experiencing chest pain from acute coronary syndrome?
A. Administer sublingual nitroglycerin
B. Administer aspirin
C. Obtain IV access
D. Check cardiac enzymes
Show answer and rationale
Correct answer: A — Administer sublingual nitroglycerin
The correct answer is to administer sublingual nitroglycerin. This medication helps to dilate the blood vessels, reduce the workload on the heart, and improve blood flow to the heart muscle, providing immediate relief for chest pain in acute coronary syndrome. Administering aspirin is also crucial in the early management of acute coronary syndrome to prevent further clot formation. However, in terms of immediate symptom relief, nitroglycerin takes precedence over aspirin. Obtaining IV access is important for administering medications and fluids but is not the priority over providing immediate relief for chest pain. Checking cardiac enzymes is essential for diagnosing acute coronary syndrome but is not the immediate priority when a patient is experiencing chest pain.
Question 3
An adult client is admitted to the hospital with a diagnosis of kidney stones. The healthcare provider prescribes IV fluids, x-rays, blood work, and a Foley catheter for the client. The nurse is caring for the client 3 days after admission and documents morning vital signs of 101°F, heart rate 92, respirations 25, and blood pressure 120/80. The urinary output has decreased, and the urine is cloudy and dark amber. Based on this data, which conclusion by the nurse is the most appropriate?
A. The client has passed the kidney stones.
B. The client is in acute renal failure.
C. The client has developed a respiratory infection.
D. The client has a probable urinary tract infection.
Show answer and rationale
Correct answer: D — The client has a probable urinary tract infection.
The correct answer is D: The client has a probable urinary tract infection. The rationale is as follows:
1. Cloudy and dark amber urine is indicative of possible infection in the urinary tract.
2. Decreased urinary output along with abnormal urine color suggests an issue with the urinary system.
3. Fever, elevated heart rate, and increased respiratory rate can indicate a systemic response to infection.
4. The combination of clinical findings points towards a urinary tract infection rather than kidney stones, renal failure, or respiratory infection.
Summary: Options A, B, and C are incorrect because they do not align with the client's clinical presentation, which strongly suggests a urinary tract infection based on the combination of symptoms and signs observed.
Question 4
A patient presents with a displaced fracture of the distal radius and ulna after a fall. What is the preferred initial treatment for this injury?
A. Closed reduction and splinting
B. Open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF)
C. Closed reduction and external fixation (CREF)
D. Cast immobilization without reduction
Show answer and rationale
Correct answer: A — Closed reduction and splinting
In the case of a displaced fracture of the distal radius and ulna, the preferred initial treatment is typically closed reduction and splinting. Closed reduction involves manually realigning the fractured bones without the need for surgery. Splinting is then utilized to immobilize the wrist and forearm to allow for proper healing of the fracture. This approach is often effective in realigning the bones and stabilizing the injury, allowing for adequate healing without the need for more invasive interventions like surgery. Following the initial management with closed reduction and splinting, the patient's progress will be monitored, and further interventions may be considered based on the specific characteristics of the fracture and the patient's response to treatment.
Question 5
Which assessment findings is INDICATIVE of the diagnosis of hypertension?
A. Family members with high blood pressure
B. Elevation of blood cholesterol level
C. Stressful work environment
D. Consistent evaluation of blood pressure
Show answer and rationale
Correct answer: D — Consistent evaluation of blood pressure
The assessment finding that is indicative of the diagnosis of hypertension is consistent evaluation of blood pressure. Hypertension is diagnosed based on repeated measurements of elevated blood pressure. Consistently high blood pressure readings, usually defined as systolic blood pressure consistently at or above 140 mmHg and diastolic blood pressure consistently at or above 90 mmHg, are a key factor in diagnosing hypertension. Family history of high blood pressure (Choice A), elevation of blood cholesterol level (Choice B), and a stressful work environment (Choice C) may be risk factors for hypertension but are not diagnostic criteria. In order to diagnose hypertension, healthcare providers rely on consistent measurement and evaluation of blood pressure over time.
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Question 6
As a nurse, which of the following are the critical factors for successful integration of loss during the grieving process?
A. The patient 's predictable and steady movement form one stage of the process to the next
B. Accurate assessment and intervention by the nurse or helping person
C. The nurse trustworthiness and healthy attitude about grief
D. The patient's adequate perception, adequate support, and adequate coping
Correct answer:
Accurate assessment and intervention by the nurse or helping person are critical factors for successful integration of loss during the grieving process. This involves the nurse's ability to assess the patient's grieving process effectively, identify their needs, provide appropriate support, and intervene when necessary. By utilizing proper assessment techniques and offering timely interventions, the nurse helps facilitate the patient's journey through the grieving process, promoting healthy coping mechanisms and ultimately assisting in achieving successful integration of their loss. Trustworthiness and a healthy attitude about grief are important qualities for a nurse, but without accurate assessment and intervention, the grieving process may not progress smoothly.
In comparison with the term infant, the preterm infant has
A. more subcutaneous fat.
B. well-developed flexor muNscleRs. I G
C. few blood vessels visible through the skin.
D. greater surface area in proportion to weight.
Correct answer:
The correct answer is D: greater surface area in proportion to weight. Preterm infants have a higher surface area to weight ratio due to their smaller size and underdeveloped body systems. This increased surface area makes them more susceptible to heat loss and requires special care to maintain their body temperature.
A: more subcutaneous fat - This is incorrect because preterm infants actually have less subcutaneous fat compared to full-term infants.
B: well-developed flexor muscles - This is incorrect as preterm infants typically have less muscle tone and may exhibit muscle weakness.
C: few blood vessels visible through the skin - This is incorrect as preterm infants often have fragile skin with visible blood vessels due to their underdeveloped skin layers.
A nurse is caring for a patient with complex healthcare needs. What action by the nurse demonstrates effective care coordination?
A. Working in isolation without consulting other healthcare providers
B. Providing fragmented care without considering the patient's preferences
C. Collaborating with interdisciplinary team members to develop a comprehensive care plan
D. Focusing solely on completing tasks without addressing the patient's holistic needs
Correct answer:
Collaborating with interdisciplinary team members to develop a comprehensive care plan demonstrates effective care coordination. In complex healthcare situations, involving various healthcare providers such as physicians, specialists, therapists, social workers, and others is crucial to ensure that all aspects of the patient's care are addressed holistically. By working together, healthcare professionals can share information, expertise, and insights to develop a well-rounded care plan that considers all aspects of the patient's needs. This collaborative approach helps promote better outcomes for the patient and enhances overall care coordination. It also helps to ensure that the patient's preferences and values are taken into account when developing the care plan.
You are a Drug Abuse Treatment and Rehabilitation Center Nurse. During the assessment of a newly admitted Person Who Uses Drugs (PWUDs) named Korino, which of the following is the MOST APPROPRIATE question to ask?
A. Ask Korino how long he thought that he could take drugs without someone finding it.
B. Ask Korino why he started taking illegal drugs.
C. Not ask any questions for fear Korino will deny and may become assaultive.
D. Ask Korino about the amount of drug used and its effect and how long he had been using.
Correct answer:
The most appropriate question to ask during the assessment of a newly admitted Person Who Uses Drugs (PWUDs) like Korino is to ask about the amount of drug used, its effects, and how long he has been using. This question provides valuable information for treatment planning and understanding the extent of Korino's drug use. By asking about the specific details of his drug use, the nurse can assess the severity of the addiction, potential health risks, and the duration of substance abuse. This information is crucial for developing an individualized treatment plan and providing appropriate care for Korino's needs. Asking open-ended questions about drug use also helps build rapport and trust between the nurse and the patient, which is essential for effective treatment.
A patient presents with urinary urgency, frequency, and nocturia. On physical examination, there is enlargement of the prostate gland with a smooth, firm consistency on digital rectal examination (DRE). Which of the following conditions is most likely?
A. Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH)
B. Prostate cancer
C. Prostatitis
D. Urinary tract infection (UTI)
Correct answer:
The clinical presentation of urinary urgency, frequency, and nocturia along with prostate enlargement with a smooth, firm consistency on digital rectal examination (DRE) is classic for benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). BPH is a common condition in aging men characterized by non-malignant growth of the prostate gland, which can cause varying degrees of lower urinary tract symptoms due to obstruction of the urethra. In contrast, prostate cancer typically presents with findings like an asymmetric, hard, or nodular prostate on DRE, while prostatitis presents with symptoms like fever, perineal pain, and systemic symptoms. Urinary tract infection (UTI) may present with dysuria, frequency, urgency, and suprapubic pain, but it does not usually cause prostate enlargement.
Which abnormality on the skin of an older patient is the priority to discuss immediately with the health care provider?
A. Dry, scaly patches on the face
B. Numerous varicosities on both legs
C. Petechiae on the chest and abdomen
D. Small dilated blood vessels on the face
Correct answer:
The correct answer is C, petechiae on the chest and abdomen. Petechiae are small pinpoint hemorrhages that can indicate a serious underlying medical condition such as thrombocytopenia or a bleeding disorder. It is important to discuss this immediately with the healthcare provider to determine the cause and initiate appropriate treatment.
A: Dry, scaly patches on the face are likely related to skin issues and can be addressed during a routine dermatology visit.
B: Numerous varicosities on both legs are common in older individuals and usually do not require urgent attention unless causing pain or other complications.
D: Small dilated blood vessels on the face are typically cosmetic concerns and not urgent unless they are causing discomfort or affecting vision.
What are the manifestations of increased intracranial pressure (IICP)?
A. Restlessness, confusion, irritability
B. Severe nausea and vomiting
C. Elevated blood pressure and bradycardia
D. Decreased heart rate and altered pupil response
Correct answer:
The correct manifestations of increased intracranial pressure (IICP) include restlessness, confusion, and irritability. These symptoms are a result of the brain being under pressure inside the skull. Severe nausea and vomiting (Choice B) are more commonly associated with increased intracranial pressure in children. Elevated blood pressure and bradycardia (Choice C) are not typical manifestations of increased intracranial pressure; instead, hypertension and bradycardia may be seen in Cushing's reflex, which is a late sign of increased IICP. Decreased heart rate and altered pupil response (Choice D) are also not primary manifestations of increased intracranial pressure, although altered pupil response, like a non-reactive or dilated pupil, can be seen in some cases.
What is a key concept of the evolutionary arms race between hosts and pathogens?
A. Both evolve to outcompete the other
B. Pathogens evolve faster due to slow host mutation rates
C. Hosts rely on chemical barriers rather than evolution
D. Pathogens only evolve when hosts fail to adapt
Correct answer:
Step 1: Evolutionary arms race involves a continuous cycle of adaptations by both hosts and pathogens to gain an advantage.
Step 2: Both parties strive to outcompete each other to survive and reproduce.
Step 3: This leads to a dynamic process where hosts evolve defense mechanisms while pathogens evolve ways to overcome them.
Step 4: Therefore, the key concept is that both hosts and pathogens evolve to outcompete each other in the evolutionary arms race.
Summary:
- Option B is incorrect as hosts can also evolve rapidly through mechanisms like recombination.
- Option C is incorrect as hosts do evolve through genetic changes, not just relying on chemical barriers.
- Option D is incorrect as pathogens continuously evolve strategies, not just when hosts fail to adapt.
Superoxide dismutase is an enzyme that catalyzes the conversion of oxygen radicals to peroxides. Which groups of organisms do not have this enzyme?
A. aerobes
B. facultative anaerobes
C. oxyduric anaerobes
D. oxylabile anaerobes
Correct answer:
The correct answer is D: oxylabile anaerobes. These organisms cannot survive in the presence of oxygen and are sensitive to oxygen radicals. Superoxide dismutase is essential for organisms that are exposed to oxygen, as it helps convert harmful oxygen radicals into less harmful peroxides. Therefore, organisms that lack this enzyme, like oxylabile anaerobes, would not be able to detoxify oxygen radicals and would not survive in aerobic environments.
A: Aerobes have superoxide dismutase to protect against oxygen radicals.
B: Facultative anaerobes can switch between aerobic and anaerobic metabolism and would benefit from having superoxide dismutase.
C: Oxyduric anaerobes are resistant to oxygen and can still benefit from superoxide dismutase for detoxification.
The nurse is evaluating care provided to a client with disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC). Which finding indicates care has been successful for this client?
A. Heart rate 110 beats per minute
B. Oxygen saturation level 86%
C. Urine output 20 mL per hour
D. No evidence of bleeding
Correct answer:
Disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC) is a serious condition characterized by both excessive clotting and bleeding throughout the body. The primary goal of care for a client with DIC is to manage and balance the clotting and bleeding tendencies. A key indicator of successful care for a client with DIC is the absence of bleeding, as this suggests that the coagulation process has been stabilized and there is no ongoing clot breakdown leading to bleeding. Monitoring for signs of bleeding, such as petechiae, purpura, ecchymosis, hematuria, and gastrointestinal bleeding, is essential in evaluating the effectiveness of care in a client with DIC. Therefore, the absence of bleeding is the most significant finding that indicates successful care in a client with DIC.
RN exams medical-surgical practice questions, set 36 for nursing students in the United States. Fifteen items. Five include answers and rationales in American English.
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