NCLEX-RN
Assessment of a Patient Questions
Extract:
Question 1 of 5
An adult client seeks treatment in an ambulatory care clinic for reports of a left earache, nausea, and a full feeling in the left ear. The client has an elevated temperature. Which assessment question should the nurse ask first?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Otitis media in the adult is typically one-sided and presents as an acute process with earache; nausea; and possible vomiting, fever, and fullness in the ear. The client may report diminished hearing in that ear during the acute process. The nurse takes a client history first, assessing whether the client has had a recent URI. It is unnecessary to question the client about a brain abscess. The nurse may ask the client if anything relieves the pain, but ear infection pain is usually not relieved until antibiotic therapy is initiated.
Question 2 of 5
The nurse is assessing a client diagnosed with Addison's disease for signs of hyperkalemia. Which sign/symptom should the nurse observe with this electrolyte imbalance?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The inadequate production of aldosterone in clients with Addison's disease causes the inadequate excretion of potassium and results in hyperkalemia. The clinical manifestations of hyperkalemia are the result of altered nerve transmission. The most harmful consequence of hyperkalemia is its effect on cardiac function. Based on this information, none of the remaining options are manifestations that are associated with Addison's disease or hyperkalemia.
Question 3 of 5
Which assessment finding should the nurse expect to note in the child hospitalized with a diagnosis of nephrotic syndrome?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Clinical manifestations associated with nephrotic syndrome include edema, anorexia, fatigue, and abdominal pain from the presence of extra fluid in the peritoneal cavity. Diarrhea caused by the edema of the bowel occurs and may cause decreased absorption of nutrients. Increased weight from fluid buildup and a normal blood pressure are noted.
Question 4 of 5
The nurse is performing a cardiovascular assessment on a client. Which item should the nurse assess to obtain the best information about the client's left-sided heart function?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The client with heart failure may present different symptoms depending on whether the right or the left side of the heart is failing. The assessment of breath sounds provides information about left-sided heart function. Peripheral edema, hepatojugular reflux, and jugular vein distention are all signs of right-sided heart function.
Question 5 of 5
The nurse is monitoring a client who is receiving an oxytocin infusion for the induction of labor. The nurse should suspect water intoxication if which sign or symptom is noted?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Oxytocin is a uterine stimulant. During an oxytocin infusion, the woman is monitored closely for signs of water intoxication, including tachycardia, cardiac dysrhythmias, shortness of breath, nausea, and vomiting. The remaining options are not associated with water intoxication.