NCLEX-RN
NCLEX Psychosocial Questions Questions
Question 1 of 9
A 5-year-old child has been recently admitted to the hospital. According to Erik Erikson's psychosocial development stages, the child is in which stage?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is 'Initiative vs. guilt.' According to Erik Erikson's psychosocial development stages, children aged 3-6 years old are in the stage of initiative versus guilt. During this stage, children begin to assert their power and control over the environment. They develop a sense of purpose and direction, but may also experience feelings of guilt if they believe their actions have caused harm or conflict. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect. 'Trust vs. mistrust' is the first stage for infants, 'Autonomy vs. shame and doubt' is the second stage for toddlers, and 'Intimacy vs. isolation' is a stage that occurs later in adulthood.
Question 2 of 9
Which behavioral characteristic describes the domestic abuser?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is 'Low self-esteem.' Domestic abusers often exhibit behaviors stemming from their own experiences of abuse, leading to a cycle of violence. They commonly have low self-esteem, which drives their need to exert control and power over their partners. Choice A, 'Alcoholic,' is not a defining behavioral characteristic of domestic abusers. Choice B, 'Overconfident,' is not typically associated with abusers who often exhibit insecurity and control issues. Choice C, 'High tolerance for frustrations,' is not a primary characteristic of domestic abusers; rather, they often have a low tolerance for situations that challenge their need for control.
Question 3 of 9
The nurse is performing an admission assessment for a non-English speaking patient who is from China. Which actions could the nurse take to enhance communication (select one that does not apply)?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Electronic translation applications, telephone-based medical interpreters, and agency interpreters are all appropriate tools to enhance communication with non-English-speaking patients. However, asking the patient's teenage daughter to interpret is not recommended due to potential misinterpretation of crucial information during the admission assessment. While family members may be considered in the absence of a professional interpreter, there is a risk of misunderstanding or lack of sharing essential details. It is important to rely on trained interpreters to ensure accurate communication and avoid miscommunication or misinterpretation of critical information. Using gestures can be helpful, but over-exaggeration of gestures is unnecessary and may lead to confusion.
Question 4 of 9
An older Asian American patient tells the nurse that she has lived in the United States for 50 years. The patient speaks English and lives in a predominantly Asian neighborhood. Which action by the nurse is most appropriate?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The most appropriate action for the nurse in this scenario is to ask the patient about any special cultural beliefs or practices. This allows for a better understanding of the patient's individual cultural background and preferences related to healthcare. It is important to gather this information to provide culturally sensitive care. Choices A, B, and D are not appropriate actions. Including a shaman without the patient's request or consent may not align with the patient's beliefs or practices. Avoiding direct eye contact can be perceived as disrespectful in some cultures but should not be assumed without confirmation from the patient. Involving the patient's oldest son without the patient's consent or preference may not be appropriate and assumes family dynamics that may not be accurate.
Question 5 of 9
Which type of toy would be most suitable for enhancing the development of a toddler-age client?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The most suitable toy to recommend for enhancing the development of a toddler-age child is clay. Clay promotes creativity and fine motor skills in toddlers. A rattle is typically recommended for infants as it aids in sensory development. Video games, which are often battery-operated, are not suitable for toddlers due to potential negative effects on development. A musical mobile is more appropriate for infants as it can aid in soothing and sensory stimulation.
Question 6 of 9
The nurse is performing an admission assessment for a non-English speaking patient who is from China. Which actions could the nurse take to enhance communication (select one that does not apply)?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Electronic translation applications, telephone-based medical interpreters, and agency interpreters are all appropriate tools to enhance communication with non-English-speaking patients. However, asking the patient's teenage daughter to interpret is not recommended due to potential misinterpretation of crucial information during the admission assessment. While family members may be considered in the absence of a professional interpreter, there is a risk of misunderstanding or lack of sharing essential details. It is important to rely on trained interpreters to ensure accurate communication and avoid miscommunication or misinterpretation of critical information. Using gestures can be helpful, but over-exaggeration of gestures is unnecessary and may lead to confusion.
Question 7 of 9
A Hispanic patient complains of abdominal cramping caused by empacho. Which action should the nurse take first?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: When a Hispanic patient presents with abdominal cramping related to empacho, it is crucial for the nurse to first understand the patient's cultural beliefs and preferences before initiating any interventions. In the case of a culture-bound syndrome like empacho, it is essential to acknowledge and respect the patient's cultural background. While options like administering medications, arranging a visit by a curandero(a), or providing massage may have potential benefits, assessing the patient's beliefs ensures that interventions are culturally sensitive and aligned with the patient's values. By engaging the patient in a discussion about potential treatments, the nurse can gather valuable information to tailor care effectively, promoting trust and collaboration in the healthcare process. This patient-centered approach enhances the quality of care and fosters a culturally competent nursing practice. Therefore, asking the patient about preferred treatments is the most appropriate initial action to address the patient's condition effectively.
Question 8 of 9
A 19-year-old client is paralyzed in a car accident. Which statement used by the client would indicate to the nurse that the client was using the mechanism of 'suppression'?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is, '"I don't remember anything about what happened to me."?' Suppression involves willfully putting an unacceptable thought or feeling out of one's mind. In this case, the client is purposely choosing not to remember details of the traumatic event to avoid dealing with the associated emotions. Choice B, '"I'd rather not talk about it right now,"?' suggests avoidance or deflection rather than active suppression. Choice C, '"It's the other entire guy's fault! He was going too fast,"?' indicates blaming someone else for the situation, which is a form of defense mechanism known as externalization. Choice D, '"My mother is heartbroken about this,"?' expresses empathy towards the mother's emotions and does not demonstrate suppression of personal feelings.
Question 9 of 9
The nurse is caring for an Asian patient who is being admitted to the hospital. Which action would be most appropriate for the nurse to take when interviewing this patient?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Observing the patient's use of eye contact will be most useful in determining the best way to communicate effectively with the patient. Different cultures have varying norms regarding eye contact, so by observing the patient, the nurse can adapt their communication style accordingly. Looking directly at the patient or avoiding eye contact may not be universally appropriate and could be misinterpreted. Asking a family member about the patient's cultural beliefs is not ideal as cultural beliefs can vary among individuals within the same cultural group. It is best to assess the patient directly to provide culturally sensitive care.