NCLEX-RN
NCLEX RN Practice Questions Quizlet Questions
Extract:
Question 1 of 5
A client with myocardial infarction is receiving tissue plasminogen activator, alteplase (Activase, tPA). While on the therapy, the nurse plans to prioritize which of the following?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The priority concern for a client receiving thrombolytic medication, such as tissue plasminogen activator (alteplase), is to monitor for signs of bleeding. Thrombolytics work by converting plasminogen to plasmin, which degrades fibrin. This process can lead to the breakdown of both fibrin-bound plasminogen on thrombi surfaces and unbound plasminogen in the plasma. The resulting plasmin can degrade fibrin, fibrinogen, factor V, and factor VIII. Observing for signs of bleeding is crucial due to the increased risk of hemorrhage associated with thrombolytic therapy. Monitoring for neurological changes, signs of renal failure, or checking the food diary are not the immediate priorities compared to detecting and managing potential bleeding complications.
Question 2 of 5
A patient is admitted to the same-day surgery unit for a liver biopsy. Which of the following laboratory tests assesses coagulation? Select one that doesn't apply.
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is 'Hemoglobin.' Hemoglobin levels are not indicative of coagulation status but are important for assessing oxygen-carrying capacity.
Choices A, B, and C are all laboratory tests that assess coagulation. Partial thromboplastin time (PTT) and prothrombin time (PT) evaluate different aspects of the coagulation cascade, while platelet count is essential for assessing primary hemostasis.
Therefore, in the context of evaluating coagulation, hemoglobin is not the appropriate choice.
Question 3 of 5
A patient asks a nurse administering blood how long red blood cells live in the body. What is the correct response?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is that red blood cells have a lifespan of 120 days in the body. This allows for efficient oxygen transport throughout the circulatory system.
Choices A, B, and C are incorrect because the lifespan of red blood cells is actually 120 days. Understanding the lifespan of red blood cells is crucial in assessing various conditions related to blood cell production and turnover.
Question 4 of 5
An 85-year-old male has been losing mobility and gaining weight over the last two months. The patient also has the heater running in his house 24 hours a day, even on warm days. Which of the following tests is most likely to be performed?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The symptoms of weight gain and poor temperature tolerance in an elderly male suggest a potential thyroid dysfunction. Thyroid function tests are crucial in differentiating between hyperthyroidism, hypothyroidism, and a euthyroid state. These tests involve measuring the serum levels of thyroid hormones T3 and T4, also known as thyroxine, to evaluate thyroid function accurately. A complete blood count (
Choice
A) would not directly address the symptoms presented. An electrocardiogram (
Choice
B) assesses heart activity and would not be the primary test for these symptoms. A CT scan (
Choice
D) provides detailed images of internal organs and structures, which would not be the initial investigation for the described symptoms.
Question 5 of 5
A patient with leukemia is receiving chemotherapy that is known to depress bone marrow. A CBC (complete blood count) reveals a platelet count of 25,000/microliter. Which of the following actions related specifically to the platelet count should be included in the nursing care plan?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: A platelet count of 25,000/microliter indicates severe thrombocytopenia, which increases the risk of bleeding. It is crucial to initiate bleeding precautions, including regularly checking for signs of bleeding such as examining urine and stool for blood. Monitoring for fever every 4 hours (
Choice
A) should be included for neutropenic precautions, not specifically related to platelet count. Requiring visitors to wear respiratory masks and protective clothing (
Choice
B) is more relevant for patients with airborne precautions. Considering transfusion of packed red blood cells (
Choice
C) is not indicated for low platelet count but is more appropriate for managing anemia or low hemoglobin levels.