ATI RN
NCLEX Questions on Neurological System Questions
Question 1 of 5
A drug is called an agonist if it ________.
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C because an agonist mimics the action of the endogenous neurotransmitter by binding to its receptor. This leads to activation of the receptor and physiological response. Choice A is incorrect as an agonist does not block a receptor. Choice B is incorrect as it describes a reuptake inhibitor, not an agonist. Choice D is incorrect as it refers to a calcium channel blocker, not an agonist. In conclusion, an agonist activates a receptor by binding to it, unlike the other choices which describe different mechanisms of action.
Question 2 of 5
The area of the nervous system that is responsible for mediating reflexes is the:
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: Spinal cord. The spinal cord is responsible for mediating reflexes due to its role in transmitting sensory information to the brain and coordinating motor responses without involving higher brain centers. Reflex actions are quick, involuntary responses to stimuli that help protect the body. The medulla (A) controls vital functions like breathing and heartbeat, the cerebellum (B) coordinates movement and balance, and the cerebral cortex (D) is involved in higher cognitive functions like thinking and decision-making, but not reflex actions.
Question 3 of 5
An elderly patient presents with a right-sided headache and acute loss of vision on the same side. Tenderness is noted to the right temporal region as well as to the scalp. To obtain a definitive diagnosis, the nurse practitioner will order:
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: Temporal artery biopsy. This is the gold standard for diagnosing giant cell arteritis, which presents with symptoms such as headache, vision loss, and tenderness to the temporal region and scalp. The biopsy will show characteristic inflammatory changes in the artery wall. A: ESR and B: CRP are nonspecific markers of inflammation and can be elevated in various conditions, including giant cell arteritis, but they do not provide a definitive diagnosis. D: CT scan of the head may show signs of inflammation in the temporal artery, but it is less sensitive than a biopsy for diagnosing giant cell arteritis.
Question 4 of 5
A college student observes a roommate going out wearing uncharacteristically seductive clothing, returning 12 to 24 hours later, and then sleeping for 8 to 12 hours. At other times, the roommate sits on the floor speaking like a young child. Which health problem should be considered?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Dissociative identity disorder. The roommate displaying different behaviors indicates potential dissociation, where different identities or states of consciousness take control. Seductive clothing and extended absence may indicate a different identity, while childlike speech may suggest another identity. This pattern aligns with the criteria for dissociative identity disorder. Functional neurological disorder (Choice A) involves physical symptoms without a clear organic cause. Dissociative amnesia (Choice C) pertains to memory loss due to psychological trauma. Body dysmorphic disorder (Choice D) involves obsession with perceived flaws in physical appearance. These options do not align with the diverse behaviors and identity shifts observed in the roommate.
Question 5 of 5
A patient diagnosed with depersonalization disorder tells the nurse, It's starting again. I feel as though I'm going to float away. The nurse should help the patient by:
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D: helping the patient focus on the here and now. This is appropriate for depersonalization disorder as it helps the patient ground themselves in reality and reduce dissociative symptoms. Encouraging meditation (A) may exacerbate dissociation by further disconnecting the patient from reality. Administering an anxiolytic medication (B) may provide temporary relief but does not address the underlying issue. Helping the patient visualize a pleasant scene (C) may be soothing but may not be effective in addressing the dissociative symptoms.