NCLEX-RN
Implementation Questions
Extract:
Question 1 of 5
The nurse is checking the fundus of a postpartum woman and notes that the uterus is soft and spongy. Which nursing action is appropriate initially?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: If the fundus is boggy (soft), it should be massaged gently until it is firm and the client is observed for increased bleeding or clots. Option 1 is an inappropriate action at this time. The nurse should document the fundal position, consistency, and height; the need to perform fundal massage; and the client's response to the intervention. The primary health care provider will need to be notified if uterine massage is not helpful.
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
The nurse responds to a call bell and finds a client lying on the floor after a fall. The nurse suspects that the client's arm may be broken. Which immediate action should the nurse take?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: When a fracture is suspected, it is imperative that the area be splinted before the client is moved. Emergency help should be called for if the client is external to a hospital, and a primary health care provider is called if the client is hospitalized. Vital signs would be taken, but this is not the immediate action. The primary health care provider rather than the nurse prescribes an x-ray examination. The nurse should remain with the client and provide realistic reassurance. Although the details of the fall are important, such a discussion is not an immediate need.
Question 4 of 5
A client who has experienced a stroke has episodes of coughing while swallowing liquids. The client has developed a temperature of 101°F (38.3°C) and an oxygen saturation of 91% (down from 98% previously), is slightly confused, and has noticeable dyspnea. Which action should the nurse take?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The client is exhibiting clinical signs and symptoms of aspiration, which include fever, dyspnea, decreased arterial oxygen levels, and confusion. Other symptoms that occur with this complication are difficulty with managing saliva or coughing or choking while eating. Because the client has developed a complication that requires medical intervention, the most appropriate action is to contact the primary health care provider. The remaining options are not related to the management of aspiration.
Question 5 of 5
The nurse is caring for an infant after a pyloromyotomy is performed to treat hypertrophic pyloric stenosis. In which position should the nurse place the infant after surgery?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: After pyloromyotomy, the head of the bed is elevated, and the infant is placed prone to reduce the risk of aspiration. Based on this information, the remaining options are incorrect positions after this type of surgery. The surgeon's prescriptions for positioning should always be followed.