NCLEX-RN
NCLEX RN Free Practice Questions Questions
Extract:
Question 1 of 5
A client with a history of phenylketonuria (PKU) is seen in the local family planning clinic. While completing the intake history, the nurse provides information for a healthy pregnancy. Which statement indicates that the client needs further teaching?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Artificial sweeteners like aspartame contain phenylalanine, which is harmful in PKU. A low-phenylalanine diet, healthy snacks, and preventing mental retardation are correct understandings.
Question 2 of 5
A 52-year-old client who underwent an exploratory laparotomy for a bowel obstruction begins to complain of hunger on the third postoperative day. His nasogastric (NG) tube was removed this morning, and he has an IV of D5W with 0.45% normal saline running at 125 mL/hr. He asks when he can get rid of his IV and start eating. The nurse recognizes that he will be able to begin taking oral fluids and nourishment when:
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The absence of wound infection is related to his surgical wound and not to postoperative GI functioning and return of peristalsis. Routine postoperative protocol involves detection of bowel sounds and return of peristalsis before introduction of clear liquids, followed by progression of full liquids and a regular diet versus a full regular meal first. Routine postoperative protocol for bowel obstruction is to assess for the return of bowel sounds within 72 hours after major surgery, because that is when bowel sounds normally return. If unable to detect bowel sounds, the surgeon should be notified immediately and have the client remain NPO. Routine postoperative protocol for bowel obstruction and other major surgeries involves frequent monitoring of vital signs in the immediate postoperative period (in recovery room) and then every 4 hours, or more frequently if the client is unstable, on the nursing unit. This includes assessing for signs of hypovolemic shock. Vital signs usually stabilize within the first 24 hours postoperatively.
Question 3 of 5
The nurse is caring for a client with a closed head injury. Which intervention is most important to prevent increased intracranial pressure (ICP)?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Elevating the head of the bed 30–45 degrees promotes venous drainage, reducing ICP. Acetaminophen (
B), oral care (
C), and breathing exercises (
D) are supportive but less critical for ICP control.
Question 4 of 5
On a home visit, the nurse finds four young children alone. The youngest of the children has bruises on the face and back and circular burns on the inner aspect of the right forearm. The nurse should:
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Bruises and circular burns suggest abuse, requiring mandatory reporting to child welfare services for investigation and protection. Transporting or staying is secondary to reporting.
Question 5 of 5
The client is admitted with a diagnosis of abruptio placenta. Which diagnostic test is most likely to be ordered?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Ultrasound can confirm placental separation in abruptio placenta and fetal heart monitoring assesses for distress due to hypoxia. Both tests are critical for diagnosis and management.