NCLEX-RN
Implementation Questions
Extract:
Question 1 of 5
The nurse is caring for an infant diagnosed with laryngomalacia (congenital laryngeal stridor). In which position should the nurse place the infant to decrease the incidence of stridor?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The prone position with the neck hyperextended improves the child's breathing. Based on that information, none of the remaining options are appropriate positions.
Question 2 of 5
The nurse caring for a child who has sustained a head injury notes that the primary health care provider has documented decorticate posturing. During the assessment of the child, the nurse notes the extension of the upper extremities and the internal rotation of the upper arms and wrists. The nurse also notes that the lower extremities are extended, with some internal rotation noted at the knees and feet. On the basis of these findings, what is the initial nursing action?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Decorticate (flexion) posturing refers to the flexion of the upper extremities and the extension of the lower extremities. Plantar flexion of the feet may also be observed. Decerebrate (extension) posturing involves the extension of the upper extremities with the internal rotation of the upper arms and wrists. The lower extremities will extend with some internal rotation noted at the knees and feet. The progression from decorticate to decerebrate posturing usually indicates deteriorating neurological function and warrants primary health care provider notification. Although documentation is appropriate, it is not the initial action in this situation. The other options are not appropriate.
Question 3 of 5
A pregnant client is receiving rehabilitative services for alcohol abuse. How should the nurse provide supportive care?
Correct Answer: A,C,D,E
Rationale: The nurse provides supportive care by encouraging the client to participate in care and to identify coping strategies. Counseling needs to continue after the infant is born. Communication with family members is important but not when they are supporting the addiction. It is not appropriate to suggest adoption.
Question 4 of 5
Which is the most important laboratory result for the nurse to present to the primary health care provider on a client who is receiving total parenteral nutrition (TPN)?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Serum electrolyte levels are critical to monitor in a client receiving TPN because TPN solutions contain high concentrations of glucose and electrolytes, which can lead to imbalances such as hyperkalemia, hypokalemia, or hyponatremia. These imbalances can cause serious complications, including cardiac dysrhythmias or neurological issues. While white blood cell count, arterial blood gas levels, and hemoglobin and hematocrit levels are important, they are not as directly related to the immediate risks associated with TPN administration as electrolyte levels.
Question 5 of 5
A mother of a child with mumps calls the health care clinic to tell the nurse that the child has been lethargic and vomiting. What instruction should the nurse give to the mother?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Mumps generally affects the salivary glands, but it can also affect multiple organs. The most common complication is septic meningitis, with the virus being identified in the cerebrospinal fluid. Common signs include nuchal rigidity, lethargy, and vomiting. The child should be seen by the primary health care provider.