NCLEX-RN
NCLEX RN Predictor Exam Questions
Extract:
Question 1 of 5
The nurse is caring for a client with a head injury who has increased ICP. The physician plans to reduce the cerebral edema by constricting cerebral blood vessels. Which physician order would serve this purpose?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Hyperventilation reduces PaCO2, causing cerebral vasoconstriction and decreased ICP. Shunts (
B) drain CSF, Furosemide (
C) reduces fluid volume, and Solu medrol (
D) reduces inflammation, but none constrict vessels directly.
Question 2 of 5
A client's record from the ED indicates that she overdosed on phenelzine sulfate (Nardil), a monoamine oxidase (MAO) inhibitor. Which diet would be the most appropriate at this time?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Tyramine is an amino acid activated by MAO in the liver and intestinal wall. It is released as proteins are hydrolyzed through aging, pickling, smoking, or spoilage of foods. When MAO is inhibited, tyramine levels rise, stimulating the adrenergic system to release large amounts of norepinephrine, which can produce a hypertensive crisis.
Question 3 of 5
A client with a history of a thyroidectomy is being discharged. The nurse should teach the client to:
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Hypocalcemia post-thyroidectomy (due to parathyroid damage) causes symptoms like tingling or tetany, requiring monitoring. Iodine foods, bedtime dosing, and fluid limits are not primary concerns.
Question 4 of 5
The nurse is caring for a client with a diagnosis of ectopic pregnancy. Which diagnostic test is most appropriate?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Ultrasound confirms the ectopic pregnancy’s location and serum hCG levels show abnormal doubling patterns. Both tests are critical for diagnosis.
Question 5 of 5
A 79-year-old client with Alzheimer's disease is exhibiting significant memory impairment, cognitive impairment, extremely impaired judgment in social situations, and agitation when placed in a new situation or around unfamiliar people. The nurse should include the following strategy in the client's care:
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Alzheimer's clients cope poorly with changes in routine because of memory deficits. Schedule changes cause confusion and frustration, whereas adhering to schedules is helpful and supports orientation. Insisting that the client go to all unit activities may antagonize her and increase her agitation because of cognitive impairments. It may be better to allow the client time for calming down or distraction rather than to insist that she attend every activity. When repeating a question, allow time first for a response; then use the same words the second time to avoid further confusion. The nurse should avoid giving several choices at once. Cognitively impaired clients will become more frustrated with making decisions.