NCLEX-RN
NCLEX-RN Exam Practice Questions
Extract:
Question 1 of 5
A 56-year-old psychiatric inpatient has had recurring episodes of depression and chronic low self-esteem. She feels that her family does not want her around, experiences a sense of helplessness, and has a negative view of herself. To assist the client in focusing on her strengths and positive traits, a strategy used by the nurse would be to:
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The nurse should encourage activities gradually, as client's energy level and tolerance for shared activities improve. Activities that focus on strengths and accomplishments, with uncomplicated tasks, minimize failure and increase self-worth. Asking a client to set a goal to make all decisions about attending group activities is unrealistic, and such decisions are not always under the client's control; this sets up the client for further failure and possibly decreased self-worth. Encouragement toward independence does promote increased feelings of self-worth; however, clients may need assistance with decision making and problem solving for various situations and on an individual basis.
Question 2 of 5
A client with a C4 spinal cord injury has been placed in traction with cervical tongs. Nursing care should include:
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Sterile pin care prevents infection at the cervical tong insertion sites, a critical nursing responsibility. Releasing traction, loosening pins, or elevating the bed risks spinal instability.
Question 3 of 5
The nurse is educating the caregiver of a client with dysphagia, due to a stroke, in ways to ensure safety and avoid aspiration during meals. Which information should be included?
Correct Answer: A, B, D
Rationale:
To prevent aspiration: sit upright (
A), place food on unaffected side (
B), and swallow one bite at a time (
D). Solid foods (
C) may increase risk; thickened liquids (E) are safer.
Question 4 of 5
When the nurse checks the fundus of a client on the first postpartum day,she notes that the fundus is firm level with the umbilicus and displaced to the side. The next action the nurse should take is to:
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: A displaced fundus on the first postpartum day is often due to bladder distention which pushes the uterus aside. Checking for bladder distention (e.g. by palpation or encouraging voiding) is the next step to correct the displacement.
Question 5 of 5
The nurse is assessing a client with suspected rheumatoid arthritis. Which finding is most characteristic of this condition?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Morning stiffness lasting over 30 minutes is a hallmark of rheumatoid arthritis, reflecting synovial inflammation. Joint pain is symmetrical, fever and weight loss are less specific, and nodules are subcutaneous, not spinal.