NCLEX-RN
NCLEX-RN Exam Practice Questions
Extract:
Question 1 of 5
A client with a fractured leg is exhibiting shortness of breath, pain upon deep breathing, and hemoptysis. What do these clinical manifestations indicate to the nurse?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Shortness of breath, pleuritic pain, and hemoptysis are classic signs of pulmonary embolus, often associated with immobility from a fracture. CHF (
A) causes edema, ARDS (
C) causes diffuse respiratory failure, and tension pneumothorax (
D) causes tracheal deviation.
Question 2 of 5
While caring for an elderly patient with hypertension, the nurse notes the following vital signs: BP of 140/40, pulse 120, respirations 36. The nurse's initial action should be to:
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The vital signs indicate a wide pulse pressure (140/40), tachycardia (pulse 120), and tachypnea (respirations 36), suggesting possible cardiovascular or respiratory distress. The nurse should report these findings to the physician immediately for further evaluation, as they may indicate a serious condition like heart failure or shock.
Question 3 of 5
The client is prescribed metronidazole (Flagyl) for a parasitic infection. Which side effect should the nurse monitor for?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Metronidazole commonly causes a metallic taste in the mouth. Hypotension, weight gain, and fever are not typical side effects.
Question 4 of 5
The sputum of a client remains positive for the tubercle bacillus even though the client has been taking Laniazid (isoniazid) in combination with other antituberculars. The nurse recognizes that the client taking isoniazid should have a negative sputum culture within:
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Effective antitubercular therapy, including isoniazid, typically results in a negative sputum culture within three months, indicating control of active infection.
Question 5 of 5
The nurse is assessing a client with suspected meningitis. Which finding is most concerning?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Neck stiffness (nuchal rigidity) is a hallmark sign of meningitis, indicating meningeal irritation and requiring urgent evaluation. Fever, photophobia, and headache are common but less specific without neck stiffness.