NCLEX-RN
NCLEX Psychosocial Questions Questions
Extract:
Question 1 of 5
A college athlete sustained a complete transection of the spinal cord while practicing on a trampoline. The health care provider explained that return of function to the lower extremities is not likely. Two weeks later, the client verbalizes the need to practice for an upcoming tournament. Which conclusion would the nurse make about the client's statement?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is 'Exhibiting denial.' Denial is a common defense mechanism when facing a serious health issue. The individual rejects the existence of the problem due to the overwhelming anxiety and emotional distress it causes. In this case, the athlete's desire to practice for an upcoming tournament despite being informed about the unlikely return of lower extremity function indicates denial of the severity of their condition.
Choice B, 'Verbalizing a fantasy,' is incorrect as a fantasy involves creating imagined events to fulfill unconscious wishes, which is not evident here.
Choice C, 'No longer able to adapt,' is incorrect because the client is actually demonstrating a maladaptive coping mechanism by denying the reality of their situation.
Choice D, 'Motivated to recover mobility,' is incorrect as the client's goal of practicing for a tournament does not align with the realistic expectation of recovering mobility after a complete spinal cord transection.
Question 2 of 5
The nurse is caring for a Native American patient who has traditional beliefs about health and illness. Which action by the nurse is most appropriate?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: When caring for a patient with traditional health beliefs, it is essential to respect and address their cultural practices. Asking the patient whether it is important to involve cultural healers, such as a shaman, aligns with providing culturally sensitive care. Avoiding asking questions unless initiated by the patient may hinder effective communication and understanding of the patient's needs. Consulting a family member for cultural beliefs assumes that all family members share the same beliefs, which may not be accurate. Additionally, the patient's personal beliefs should be prioritized over family input. Explaining hospital routines without considering the patient's cultural preferences may lead to a lack of patient-centered care.
Therefore, the most appropriate action is to inquire about the patient's preference regarding cultural healers.
Question 3 of 5
When performing a cultural assessment with a patient from a different culture, what action should the nurse take first?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: When conducting a cultural assessment, the first step is to inquire if the patient has any affiliation with a specific cultural group. This helps the nurse understand the patient's background and beliefs. Requesting an interpreter before interviewing the patient may be necessary if language barriers exist. Waiting for a family member to assist with the assessment may delay the process and compromise patient confidentiality. Telling the patient what the nurse knows about their culture assumes knowledge and may lead to misunderstandings or inaccuracies.
Question 4 of 5
A 16-month-old child has just been admitted to the hospital. As the nurse assigned to this child enters the hospital room for the first time, the toddler runs to the mother, clings to her, and begins to cry. What would be the initial action by the nurse?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is to explain that this behavior is expected. During normal development, fear of strangers becomes prominent beginning around age 6-8 months. Such behaviors include clinging to parents, crying, and turning away from the stranger. These fears and behaviors extend into the toddler period and may persist into preschool. Changing client care assignments (
Choice
A) is not necessary as the child's behavior is developmentally appropriate. Discussing the appropriate use of 'time-out' (
Choice
C) is not relevant in this situation as the child is displaying normal attachment behavior, not misbehavior. Explaining that the child needs extra attention (
Choice
D) may not be necessary as the child is likely seeking comfort from the familiar presence of the mother, which is a typical response in a stressful situation like being in a hospital environment.
Question 5 of 5
A client decides to have hospice care rather than undergo an extensive surgical procedure. Which ethical principle does the client's behavior illustrate?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is 'Autonomy.' Autonomy refers to an individual's right to make decisions about their own care. In this scenario, the client is choosing hospice care over surgery, demonstrating their autonomy in making healthcare choices. Justice involves fairness and equality in the distribution of resources and services, which is not the primary ethical principle illustrated in this case. Veracity pertains to truthfulness and honesty, which is not directly related to the client's decision-making process. Beneficence refers to the duty to do good and act in the best interest of the patient, which is not the central ethical principle demonstrated by the client's decision for hospice care.