ATI RN
nclex practice questions 2023 health assessment Questions
Question 1 of 5
The muscles in the neck that are innervated by CN XI are the:
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: sternomastoid and trapezius. CN XI, also known as the spinal accessory nerve, innervates the sternomastoid and trapezius muscles. The sternomastoid muscle is responsible for neck rotation and flexion, while the trapezius muscle is responsible for shoulder movement and stability. The other choices are incorrect because the omohyoid and sternomandibular muscles are not innervated by CN XI. The spinal accessory nerve does not innervate the omohyoid muscle, and the sternomandibular muscle is not a recognized muscle in the neck. Therefore, choices B, C, and D are incorrect.
Question 2 of 5
When assessing pupillary light reflex, which of the following techniques should the nurse use?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C because shining a light across the pupil from the side allows for both direct (ipsilateral) and consensual (contralateral) pupillary constriction to be observed. This technique helps to assess the integrity of the cranial nerves involved in the pupillary light reflex (CN II and III). Direct constriction occurs in the eye exposed to the light, while consensual constriction occurs in the opposite eye. This comprehensive assessment ensures that both pupils are responding appropriately to light stimulation, providing a more accurate evaluation of the reflex. Choice A is incorrect because inspecting for pupillary constriction from directly in front may not adequately assess for consensual constriction in the opposite eye. Choice B is incorrect as asking the patient to follow the penlight in eight directions does not specifically target the pupillary light reflex. Choice D is incorrect as it focuses on accommodation rather than the pupillary light reflex.
Question 3 of 5
During an admission assessment, the nurse notices that a male patient has an enlarged and rather thick skull. The nurse suspects acromegaly and would further assess for:
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Step 1: The nurse notices an enlarged and thick skull, which are common signs of acromegaly. Step 2: Acromegaly results from excess growth hormone, leading to changes in facial features. Step 3: Coarse facial features such as enlarged nose, lips, and jaw are classic signs of acromegaly. Step 4: Therefore, assessing for coarse facial features is crucial in confirming acromegaly. Summary: A: Exophthalmos is associated with hyperthyroidism, not acromegaly. B: Bowed long bones are seen in conditions like rickets, not acromegaly. D: An acorn-shaped cranium is not a typical feature of acromegaly.
Question 4 of 5
The nurse is performing an otoscopic examination on an adult. Which of the following is true?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: Pull the pinna up and back before inserting the speculum. This is because pulling the pinna up and back straightens the auditory canal, allowing for easier and more accurate insertion of the speculum without causing discomfort or injury. Option A is incorrect as tilting the head forward may obstruct the view. Option B is incorrect as maintaining traction is essential for stability. Option D is incorrect as using the smallest speculum may not provide a clear view or proper insertion depth.
Question 5 of 5
The nurse is preparing to auscultate a patient's enlarged thyroid for the presence of a bruit. A bruit is a:
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C because a bruit is a soft, whooshing, pulsatile sound best heard with the bell of the stethoscope. This sound indicates turbulent blood flow, often due to a narrowed or blocked artery. Using the bell of the stethoscope allows for better detection of low-frequency sounds like bruits. A is incorrect because a low gurgling sound is not indicative of a bruit. B is incorrect because a loud, whooshing, blowing sound is not characteristic of a bruit. D is incorrect because a high-pitched tinkling sound is not typically associated with a bruit. In summary, the correct answer is C because it accurately describes the characteristics of a bruit, while the other choices do not align with the typical sound of a bruit.