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• If bleeding occurs after an injection, the nurse should apply pressure until the bleeding
stops. If bruising occurs, the nurse should monitor the site for an enlarging hematoma.
• When providing hair and scalp care, the nurse should begin combing at the end of the
hair and work toward the head.
• The frequency of patient hair care depends on the length and texture of the hair, the
duration of hospitalization, and the patient’s condition.
• Proper function of a hearing aid requires careful handling during insertion and
removal, regular cleaning of the ear piece to prevent wax buildup, and prompt
replacement of dead batteries.
• The hearing aid that’s marked with a blue dot is for the left ear; the one with a red dot
is for the right ear.
• The nurse should instruct the patient to avoid using hair spray while wearing a hearing
aid.
• The nurse should remove heel protectors every 8 hours to inspect the foot for signs of
skin breakdown.
• The nurse should administer procaine penicillin by deep I.M. injection in the upper
outer portion of the buttocks in the adult or in the midlateral thigh in the child. The
nurse shouldn’t massage the injection site.
• An ascending colostomy drains fluid feces. A descending colostomy drains solid fecal
matter.
• A folded towel (scrotal bridge) can provide scrotal support for thev patient with scrotal
edema caused by vasectomy, epididymitis, or orchitis.
• When giving an injection to a patient who has a bleeding disorder, the nurse should
use a small-gauge needle and apply pressure to the site for 5 minutes after the injection.
• Platelets are the smallest and most fragile formed element of the blood and are essential
for coagulation.
• To insert a nasogastric tube, the nurse instructs the patient to tilt the head back slightly
and then inserts the tube. When the nurse feels the tube curving at the pharynx, the nurse
should tell the patient to tilt the head forward to close the trachea and open the
esophagus by swallowing. (Sips of water can facilitate this action.)
• Families with loved ones in intensive care units report that their four most
important needs are to have their questions answered honestly, to be assured that the
best possible care is being provided, to know the patient’s prognosis, and to feel that
there is hope of recovery.
• A nonjudgmental attitude displayed by a nurse shows that she neither approves nor
disapproves of the patient.
• Target symptoms are those that the patient finds most distressing.
• A patient should be advised to take aspirin on an empty stomach, with a full glass of
water, and should avoid acidic foods such as coffee, citrus fruits, and cola.
• For every patient problem, there is a nursing diagnosis; for every nursing diagnosis, there
is a goal; and for every goal, there are interventions designed to make the goal a reality.
• Fidelity means loyalty and can be shown as a commitment to the profession of nursing
and to the patient.
• Administering an I.M. injection against the patient’s will and without legal authority is
battery.
• Usually, the best method to determine a patient’s cultural or spiritual needs is to ask
him.
• An incident report or unusual occurrence report isn’t part of a patient’s record, but is
an in-house document that’s used for the purpose of correcting the problem.
• The two nursing diagnoses that have the highest priority that the nurse can assign are
Ineffective airway clearance and Ineffective breathing pattern.
• A subjective sign that a sitz bath has been effective is the patient’s expression of
decreased pain or discomfort.
• For the nursing diagnosis Deficient diversional activity to be valid,the patient must state
that he’s “bored,” that he has “nothing to do,” or words to that effect.
• The most appropriate nursing diagnosis for an individual who doesn’t speak English is
Impaired verbal communication related to inability to speak dominant language
(English).
• The family of a patient who has been diagnosed as hearing impaired should be
instructed to face the individual when they speak to him.
• Before instilling medication into the ear of a patient who is up to age 3, the nurse
should pull the pinna down and back to straighten the eustachian tube.
• To prevent injury to the cornea when administering eyedrops, the nurse should waste
the first drop and instill the drug in the lower conjunctival sac.
• The keys to answering examination questions correctly are identifying the problem
presented, formulating a goal for the problem, and selecting the intervention from the
choices provided that will enable the patient to reach that goal.
• After administering eye ointment, the nurse should twist the medication tube to detach
the ointment.
• When the nurse removes gloves and a mask, she should remove the gloves first. They are
soiled and are likely to contain pathogens.
• Crutches should be placed 6″ (15.2 cm) in front of the patient and 6″ to the side to form
a tripod arrangement.
• Before teaching any procedure to a patient, the nurse must assess the patient’s current
knowledge and willingness to learn.
• When feeding an elderly patient, the nurse should limit high-carbohydrate foods
because of the risk of glucose intolerance.
• Passive range of motion maintains joint mobility. Resistive exercises increase muscle
mass.
• Anything that’s located below the waist is considered unsterile; a sterile field becomes
unsterile when it comes in contact with any unsterile item; a sterile field must be
monitored continuously; and a border of 1″ (2.5 cm) around a sterile field is considered
unsterile.
• A “shift to the left” is evident when the number of immature cells (bands) in the blood
increases to fight an infection.
• A “shift to the right” is evident when the number of mature cells in the blood increases,
as seen in advanced liver disease and pernicious anemia.
• A nurse should spend no more than 30 minutes per 8-hour shift providing care to a
patient who has a radiation implant.
• A nurse shouldn’t be assigned to care for more than one patient who has a radiation
implant.
• Usually, patients who have the same infection and are in strict isolation can share a
room.
• Diseases that require strict isolation include chickenpox, diphtheria, and viral
hemorrhagic fevers such as Marburg disease.
• For the patient who abides by Jewish custom, milk and meat shouldn’t be served at the
same meal.
• According to Erik Erikson, developmental stages are trust versus mistrust (birth to 18
months), autonomy versus shame and doubt (18 months to age 3), initiative versus
guilt (ages 3 to 5), industry versus inferiority (ages 5 to 12), identity versus identity
diffusion (ages 12 to 18), intimacy versus isolation (ages 18 to 25), generativity versus
stagnation (ages 25 to 60), and ego integrity versus despair (older than age 60).
• When communicating with a hearing impaired patient, the nurse should face him.
• An appropriate nursing intervention for the spouse of a patient who has a serious
incapacitating disease is to help him to mobilize a support system.
• When a patient expresses concern about a health-related issue, before addressing the
concern, the nurse should assess the patient’s level of knowledge.
• The most effective way to reduce a fever is to administer an antipyretic, which lowers
the temperature set point.
• When a patient is ill, it’s essential for the members of his family to maintain
communication about his health needs.
• Ethnocentrism is the universal belief that one’s way of life is superior to others’.
• When a nurse is communicating with a patient through an interpreter, the nurse should
speak to the patient and the interpreter.
• In accordance with the “hot-cold” system used by some Mexicans, Puerto Ricans, and
other Hispanic and Latino groups, most foods, beverages, herbs, and drugs are described
as “cold.”
• The three phases of the therapeutic relationship are orientation, working, and
termination.
• Patients often exhibit resistive and challenging behaviors in the orientation phase of the
therapeutic relationship.
• When measuring blood pressure in a neonate, the nurse should select a cuff that’s no
less than one-half and no more than two-thirds the length of the extremity that’s used.
• When administering a drug by Z-track, the nurse shouldn’t use the same needle that
was used to draw the drug into the syringe because doing so could stain the skin.
• Sites for intradermal injection include the inner arm, the upper chest, and on the back,
under the scapula.
• Beneficence is the duty to do no harm and the duty to do good. There’s an obligation in
patient care to do no harm and an equal obligation to assist the patient.
• A = Airway. This category includes everything that affects a patentv airway, including a
foreign object, fluid from an upper respiratory infection, and edema from trauma or an
allergic reaction.
• B = Breathing. This category includes everything that affects the breathing pattern,
including hyperventilation or hypoventilation and abnormal breathing patterns, such as
Korsakoff’s, Biot’s, or Cheyne-Stokes respiration.
• C = Circulation. This category includes everything that affects the circulation, including
fluid and electrolyte disturbances and disease processes that affect cardiac output.
• D = Disease processes. If the patient has no problem with the airway, breathing, or
circulation, then the nurse should evaluate the disease processes, giving priority to the
disease process that poses the greatest immediate risk. For example, if a patient has
terminal cancer and hypoglycemia, hypoglycemia is a more immediate concern.
• E = Everything else. This category includes such issues as writing an incident report
and completing the patient chart. When evaluating needs, this category is never the
highest priority.
• Rule utilitarianism is known as the “greatest good for the greatest number of people”
theory.
• Egalitarian theory emphasizes that equal access to goods and services must be provided
to the less fortunate by an affluent society.
• Utilization review is performed to determine whether the care provided to a patient was
appropriate and cost-effective.
• Beef, oysters, shrimp, scallops, spinach, beets, and greens are good sources of iron.
• When a patient asks a question or makes a statement that’s emotionally charged, the
nurse should respond to the emotion behind the statement or question rather than to
what’s being said or asked.
• The steps of the trajectory-nursing model are as follows:– Step 1: Identifying the
trajectory phase– Step 2: Identifying the problems and establishing goals– Step 3:
Establishing a plan to meet the goals– Step 4: Identifying factors that facilitate or hinder
attainment of the goals– Step 5: Implementing interventions– Step 6: Evaluating the
effectiveness of the interventions
• Pain threshold, or pain sensation, is the initial point at which a patient feels pain.
• The difference between acute pain and chronic pain is its duration.
• Referred pain is pain that’s felt at a site other than its origin.
• Alleviating pain by performing a back massage is consistent with the gate control
theory.
• Pain seems more intense at night because the patient isn’t distracted by daily activities.
• Older patients commonly don’t report pain because of fear of treatment, lifestyle
changes, or dependency.
• Two goals of Healthy People 2010 are: 1. Help individuals of all ages to increase the
quality of life and the number of years of optimal health 2. Eliminate health disparities
among different segments of the population.
• A patient indicates that he’s coming to terms with having a chronic disease when he says,
“I’m never going to get any better.”
• On noticing religious artifacts and literature on a patient’s night stand, a culturally aware
nurse would ask the patient the meaning of the items.
• A Mexican patient may request the intervention of a curandero, or faith healer, who
involves the family in healing the patient.
• The nitrogen balance estimates the difference between the intake and use of protein.
• When assessing a patient’s eating habits, the nurse should ask, “What have you eaten
in the last 24 hours?”
• A hypotonic enema softens the feces, distends the colon, and stimulates peristalsis.
• First-morning urine provides the best sample to measure glucose, ketone, pH, and
specific gravity values.
• Before moving a patient, the nurse should assess the patient’s physical abilities and
ability to understand instructions as well as the amount of strength required to move the
patient.
• To lose 1 lb (0.5 kg) in 1 week, the patient must decrease his weekly intake by 3,500
calories (approximately 500 calories daily). To lose 2 lb (1 kg) in 1 week, the patient
must decrease his weekly caloric intake by 7,000 calories (approximately 1,000 calories
daily).
• To insert a catheter from the nose through the trachea for suction, the nurse should
ask the patient to swallow.
• Cutaneous stimulation creates the release of endorphins that block the transmission of
pain stimuli.
• Chronic illnesses occur in very young as well as middle-aged and very old people.
• The trajectory framework for chronic illness states that preferences about daily life
activities affect treatment decisions.
• Exacerbations of chronic disease usually cause the patient to seek treatment and may
lead to hospitalization.
• School health programs provide cost-effective health care for low-income families and
those who have no health insurance.
• A change agent is an individual who recognizes a need for change or is selected to make
a change within an established entity, such as a hospital.
• The patients’ bill of rights was introduced by the American Hospital Association.
• Values clarification is a process that individuals use to prioritize their personal values.
• Milk and milk products, poultry, grains, and fish are good sources of phosphate.
• The best way to prevent falls at night in an oriented, but restless, elderly patient is to
raise the side rails.
• By the end of the orientation phase, the patient should begin to trust the nurse.
• In a patient with hypokalemia (serum potassium level below 3.5 mEq/L), presenting
signs and symptoms include muscle weakness and cardiac arrhythmias.
• Pernicious anemia results from the failure to absorb vitamin B12 in the GI tract and
causes primarily GI and neurologic signs and symptoms.
• A patient who has a pressure ulcer should consume a high-protein, high-calorie diet,
unless contraindicated.
• The CK-MB isoenzyme level is used to assess tissue damage in myocardial infarction
• After a 12-hour fast, the normal fasting blood glucose level is 80 to 120 mg/dl.
• A patient who is experiencing digoxin toxicity may report nausea, vomiting, diplopia,
blurred vision, light flashes, and yellow-green halos around images.
• In remittent fever, the body temperature varies over a 24-hour period, but remains
elevated.
• Risk of a fat embolism is greatest in the first 48 hours after the fracture of a long bone.
It’s manifested by respiratory distress.
• To help venous blood return in a patient who is in shock, the nurse should elevate the
patient’s legs no more than 45 degrees. This procedure is contraindicated in a patient
with a head injury.
• The pulse deficit is the difference between the apical and radial pulse rates, when taken
simultaneously by two nurses.
• To reduce the patient’s risk of vomiting and aspiration, the nurse should schedule
postural drainage before meals or 2 to 4 hours after meals.
• A positive Kernig’s sign, seen in meningitis, occurs when an attempt to flex the hip of a
recumbent patient causes painful spasms of the hamstring muscle and resistance to
further extension of the leg at the knee.
• In a patient with a fractured, dislocated femur, treatment begins with reduction and
immobilization of the affected leg
• Herniated nucleus pulposus (intervertebral disk) most commonly occurs in the lumbar
and lumbosacral regions.
• Surgical treatment of a gastric ulcer includes severing the vagus nerve (vagotomy) to
reduce the amount of gastric acid secreted by the gastric cells.
• When mean arterial pressure falls below 60 mm Hg and systolic blood pressure falls
below 80 mm Hg, vital organ perfusion is seriously compromised.
• A patient is at greatest risk of dying during the first 24 to 48 hours after a myocardial
infarction.
• During a myocardial infarction, the left ventricle usually sustains the greatest damage.
• The pain of a myocardial infarction results from myocardial ischemia caused by anoxia.
• The universal sign for choking is clutching the hand to the throat.
• For a patient who has heart failure or cardiogenic pulmonary edema, nursing
interventions focus on decreasing venous return to the heart and increasing left
ventricular output. These interventions include placing the patient in high Fowler’s
position and administering oxygen, diuretics, and positive inotropic drugs as prescribed.
• In burn victims, the leading cause of death is respiratory compromise. The second
leading cause is infection.
• The exocrine function of the pancreas is the secretion of enzymes used to digest
carbohydrates, fats, and proteins.
• A patient who has hepatitis A (infectious hepatitis) should consume a diet that’s
moderately high in fat and high in carbohydrate and protein, and should eat the largest
meal in the morning.
• Drugs that potentiate the effects of anticoagulants include aspirin, chloral hydrate,
glucagon, anabolic steroids, and chloramphenicol.
• For a burn patient, care priorities include maintaining a patent airway, preventing or
correcting fluid and electrolyte imbalances, controlling pain, and preventing infection.
Medical and Surgical Nursing Review Questions 1
1. Which nursing intervention would be most appropriate for promoting the environmental safety
of a client with a cognitive disorder?
A. Applying an identification bracelet on the client
B. Maintaining daily routine care for the client
C. Placing a clock and a daily schedule in the client’s room
D. Using short sentences with simple words when speaking with the client
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Applying an identification bracelet on the client would be most effective in helping to
ensure environmental and client safety should the client wander. Other measures include
installing alarms; instituting injury, fire, and poisoning precautions; providing adequate
lighting; and keeping the bed in a low position. Maintaining a daily routine would be helpful for
ensuring consistency and promoting optimal functioning. Clocks and daily schedules would be
helpful for reorienting the client and promoting optimal cognitive function. Using short
sentences with simple words would be appropriate for maximizing effective communication.
2. Which client complaint would lead the nurse to suspect premenstrual syndrome (PMS)?
A. Fatigue and weight gain on the day prior to menses
B. Headache and mood swings occurring about 10 days prior to menses
C. Mood swings and breast tenderness with the onset of menses
D. Painful menstruation and large menstrual flow
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Typically, PMS is manifested by complaints of headache, mood swings, irritability,
weight gain, fatigue, and full, tender breasts, occurring approximately 10 days before menses in
each cycle. Painful menstruation and a large menstrual flow are not associated with PMS.
3. When disposing of the plastic bags, tubing, syringes, and gloves used to administer
antineoplastic drugs, the nurse should implement which nursing intervention?
A. Avoiding contact with the equipment by allowing housekeeping to remove it
B. Discarding all used equipment in a container marked “isolation”
C. Disposing of all equipment in a container marked “bio-health hazard”
D. Disposing of all used equipment in the regular trash receptacles
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Any disposable equipment and supplies used for chemotherapy must be disposed of in
a manner that protects the environment; placing the items in a container marked “bio-health
hazard” is appropriate because these containers can be incinerated at a temperature of 2,200 to
2,500° F so that there is no residue. Only personnel trained in the proper handling of
antineoplastic agents should handle the wastes. Infectious waste is incinerated at 1,700 to
1,800° F; residue is possible after incineration at these temperatures, making it an
inappropriate method for the disposal of antineoplastic equipment and supplies. Because the
equipment has been contaminated with material that is carcinogenic, special precautions are
required.
4. Which assessment data for a client who is 1 day postabdominal surgery would warrant
immediate nursing intervention?
A. Blood pressure of 110/70 mm Hg and hematocrit of 42%
B. Complaints of abdominal pain as an
C. Hypoactive bowel sounds and a serum potassium of 3.7 mEq/L
D. Rigid, hard, boardlike abdomen and a white blood cell (WBC) count of 20,000 mm
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: One day after abdominal surgery, the client’s abdomen should be soft, not rigid or
hard. Also, the WBC count may be slightly elevated in response to the surgery, but an elevation
of 20,000 mmis highly suggestive of an infectious process. A rigid, boardlike abdomen in
conjunction with a seriously elevated WBC count suggests peritonitis and requires immediate
intervention. The client’s blood pressure and hematocrit are within normal limits. One day after
surgery, abdominal incisional pain would be expected and often is rated as high when using a
scale from 1 to 10. The client’s hemoglobin level is within normal limits. Hypoactive bowel
sounds would be expected 1 day after abdominal surgery. The client’s potassium level is within
normal limits.
5. The nurse would include which nursing intervention for a client diagnosed with acute
diverticulitis?
A. Administration of stimulant laxatives
B. Increased fluid intake
C. Continuation of client’s nothing-by-mouth status
D. High-fiber diet
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: During an acute episode of diverticulitis, measures focus on resting the colon, such as
keeping the client on nothing-by-mouth status, administering I.V. fluids, and maintaining
nasogastric suctioning and bedrest. Administering stimulant laxatives may be appropriate for
restoring the client’s normal bowel elimination, but their use during an acute attack would only
serve to irritate the bowel further. Increased fluid intake would be appropriate for diverticulosis.
A high-fiber diet would be indicated for diverticulosis, but this type of diet would not be
appropriate during an acute attack.
6. The nurse would include which nursing intervention in the care plan for a client with an L5-S1
intervertebral disc herniation?
A. Assessing the skeletal traction insertion sites for infection
B. Encouraging the client to ambulate as much as possible
C. Positioning the client with his knees slightly flexed and the head of bed elevated
D. Preparing the client for lumbar puncture
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Positioning the client with the head of the bed elevated and his knees slightly flexed
increases the disc space and may help to decrease the client’s pain. Skeletal traction is not a
treatment of choice for a herniated disc. The client with an intervertebral disc herniation should
be kept on bedrest. A lumbar puncture is not a diagnostic procedure for intervertebral disc
herniation.
7. A 16-year-old client asks the nurse, “What caused me to have acne?” Which statement would
be the nurse’s best response?
A. “Acne is caused by an excess production of sebum.”
B. “Acne is caused by not cleaning your face thoroughly every day.”
C. “Eating lots of chocolate and candy causes you to have acne.”
D. “The exact cause of acne is not really known.”
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The exact cause of acne is not known, but evidence has shown that acne involves
multiple factors, such as genetics, hormonal factors, and bacterial infections. Excess production
of sebum results in seborrhea. Uncleanliness and dietary indiscretions, such as eating chocolate
and candy, do not cause acne.
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Turning the client frequently, such as every 2 hours, is one of the single most
important interventions in preventing pressure ulcers because it helps to minimize the effects of
pressure on the skin, allowing pressure to be redistributed with each turn. Applying an external
urine collection device would be appropriate if the client is incontinent, but this action is not
always relevant for every client and thus is not the most important. Helping the client to
maintain appropriate body position is important, but it must be done in conjunction with
frequent turning; maintaining body position without frequent turning would not be beneficial.
Reddened areas should never be massaged because this increases tissue damage.
9. The client with a rectovaginal fistula is at high risk for infection. Which intervention would be
the most important aspect of preventative nursing care?
A. Administering antibiotics
B. Ensuring adequate rest to enhance healing
C. Monitoring temperature and white blood cell (WBC) count
D. Performing perineal hygiene, including irrigations
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The client with a rectovaginal fistula may experience fecal drainage via the vagina;
preventing infection by keeping the vaginal area clean with irrigation, douches, and sitz baths
would be most important. Administering antibiotics and ensuring adequate rest may be useful in
promoting healing, but they are not preventative measures. Monitoring for symptoms of infection
is important, but perineal hygiene is more effective as a preventative measure.
10. The client with a head injury is experiencing increased intracranial pressure (ICP). Which
medication would the nurse anticipate administering?
A. Anticholinesterase agents
B. Anticonvulsants
C. Loop diuretics
D. Osmotic diuretics
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Osmotic diuretics such as mannitol are the preferred diuretic in the management of
increased ICP to decrease cerebral edema and, therefore, decrease ICP. Anticholinesterase
agents are used in the management of myasthenia gravis and are not helpful in decreasing ICP.
Anticonvulsant medications would be used to treat seizure activity and are not helpful in
decreasing ICP. Loop diuretics can be given in cases of increased ICP, but they are not a first-
line agent.
FUNDAMENTALS
1. When removing a contaminated gown, the nurse should be careful that the first thing she
touches is the:
1. Waist tie and neck tie at the back of the gown
2. Waist tie in front of the gown
3. Cuffs of the gown
4. Inside of the gown
Correct Answer: A. The back of the gown is considered clean, the front is contaminated.
So, after removing gloves and washing hands, the nurse should untie the back of the
gown; slowly move backward away from the gown, holding the inside of the gown and
keeping the edges off the floor; turn and fold the gown inside out; discard it in a
contaminated linen container; then wash her hands again.
2. Which of the following nursing interventions is considered the most effective form or
universal precautions?
1. Cap all used needles before removing them from their syringes
2. Discard all used uncapped needles and syringes in an impenetrable protective
container
3. Wear gloves when administering IM injections
4. Follow enteric precautions
Correct Answer: B. According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), blood-to-blood
contact occurs most commonly when a health care worker attempts to cap a used needle.
Therefore, used needles should never be recapped; instead they should be inserted in a
specially designed puncture resistant, labeled container. Wearing gloves is not always
necessary when administering an I.M. injection. Enteric precautions prevent the transfer
of pathogens via feces.
3. All of the following measures are recommended to prevent pressure ulcers except:
1. Massaging the reddened are with lotion
2. Using a water or air mattress
3. Adhering to a schedule for positioning and turning
4. Providing meticulous skin care
Correct Answer: A. Nurses and other health care professionals previously believed that
massaging a reddened area with lotion would promote venous return and reduce edema
to the area. However, research has shown that massage only increases the likelihood of
cellular ischemia and necrosis to the area.
4. Which of the following blood tests should be performed before a blood transfusion?
1. Prothrombin and coagulation time
2. Blood typing and cross-matching
3. Bleeding and clotting time
4. Complete blood count (CBC) and electrolyte levels.
Correct Answer: B. Before a blood transfusion is performed, the blood of the donor and
recipient must be checked for compatibility. This is done by blood typing (a test that
determines a person’s blood type) and cross-matching (a procedure that determines the
compatibility of the donor’s and recipient’s blood after the blood types has been
matched). If the blood specimens are incompatible, hemolysis and antigen-antibody
reactions will occur.
Correct Answer: A. Platelets are disk-shaped cells that are essential for blood
coagulation. A platelet count determines the number of thrombocytes in blood available
for promoting hemostasis and assisting with blood coagulation after injury. It also is
used to evaluate the patient’s potential for bleeding; however, this is not its primary
purpose. The normal count ranges from 150,000 to 350,000/mm3. A count of
100,000/mm3 or less indicates a potential for bleeding; count of less than 20,000/mm3 is
associated with spontaneous bleeding.
6. Which of the following white blood cell (WBC) counts clearly indicates leukocytosis?
1. 4,500/mm³
2. 7,000/mm³
3. 10,000/mm³
4. 25,000/mm³
Correct Answer: D. Leukocytosis is any transient increase in the number of white blood
cells (leukocytes) in the blood. Normal WBC counts range from 5,000 to 100,000/mm3.
Thus, a count of 25,000/mm3 indicates leukocytosis.
7. After 5 days of diuretic therapy with 20mg of furosemide (Lasix) daily, a patient begins
to exhibit fatigue, muscle cramping and muscle weakness. These symptoms probably
indicate that the patient is experiencing:
1. Hypokalemia
2. Hyperkalemia
3. Anorexia
4. Dysphagia
Correct Answer: A. Fatigue, muscle cramping, and muscle weaknesses are symptoms of
hypokalemia (an inadequate potassium level), which is a potential side effect of diuretic
therapy. The physician usually orders supplemental potassium to prevent hypokalemia in
patients receiving diuretics. Anorexia is another symptom of hypokalemia. Dysphagia
means difficulty swallowing.
9. The most appropriate time for the nurse to obtain a sputum specimen for culture is:
1. Early in the morning
2. After the patient eats a light breakfast
3. After aerosol therapy
4. After chest physiotherapy
Correct Answer: A. Obtaining a sputum specimen early in this morning ensures an
adequate supply of bacteria for culturing and decreases the risk of contamination from
food or medication
10. A patient with no known allergies is to receive penicillin every 6 hours. When
administering the medication, the nurse observes a fine rash on the patient’s skin. The
most appropriate nursing action would be to:
1. Withhold the moderation and notify the physician
2. Administer the medication and notify the physician
3. Administer the medication with an antihistamine
4. Apply corn starch soaks to the rash
1. All of the following nursing interventions are correct when using the Z-track method of
drug injection except:
1. Prepare the injection site with alcohol
2. Use a needle that’s a least 1” long
3. Aspirate for blood before injection
4. Rub the site vigorously after the injection to promote absorption
Correct Answer: D. The Z-track method is an I.M. injection technique in which the
patient’s skin is pulled in such a way that the needle track is sealed off after the injection.
This procedure seals medication deep into the muscle, thereby minimizing skin staining
and irritation. Rubbing the injection site is contraindicated because it may cause the
medication to extravasate into the skin.
2. The correct method for determining the vastus lateralis site for I.M. injection is to:
1. Locate the upper aspect of the upper outer quadrant of the buttock about 5 to 8 cm
below the iliac crest
2. Palpate the lower edge of the acromion process and the midpoint lateral aspect of
the arm
3. Palpate a 1” circular area anterior to the umbilicus
4. Divide the area between the greater femoral trochanter and the lateral femoral
condyle into thirds, and select the middle third on the anterior of the thigh
Correct Answer: D. The vastus lateralis, a long, thick muscle that extends the full length
of the thigh, is viewed by many clinicians as the site of choice for I.M. injections because
it has relatively few major nerves and blood vessels. The middle third of the muscle is
recommended as the injection site. The patient can be in a supine or sitting position for
an injection into this site.
3. The mid-deltoid injection site is seldom used for I.M. injections because it:
1. Can accommodate only 1 ml or less of medication
2. Bruises too easily
3. Can be used only when the patient is lying down
4. Does not readily parenteral medication
Correct Answer: A. The mid-deltoid injection site can accommodate only 1 ml or less of
medication because of its size and location (on the deltoid muscle of the arm, close to the
brachial artery and radial nerve).
Correct Answer: D. A 25G, 5/8” needle is the recommended size for insulin injection
because insulin is administered by the subcutaneous route. An 18G, 1 ½” needle is
usually used for I.M. injections in children, typically in the vastus lateralis. A 22G, 1 ½”
needle is usually used for adult I.M. injections, which are typically administered in the
vastus lateralis or ventrogluteal site.
Correct Answer: D. Because an intradermal injection does not penetrate deeply into the
skin, a small-bore 25G needle is recommended. This type of injection is used primarily to
administer antigens to evaluate reactions for allergy or sensitivity studies. A 20G needle
is usually used for I.M. injections of oil-based medications; a 22G needle for I.M.
injections; and a 25G needle, for I.M. injections; and a 25G needle, for subcutaneous
insulin injections.
7. The physician orders gr 10 of aspirin for a patient. The equivalent dose in milligrams is:
1. 0.6 mg
2. 10 mg
3. 60 mg
4. 600 mg
Correct Answer: C. In real failure, the kidney loses their ability to effectively eliminate
wastes and fluids. Because of this, limiting the patient’s intake of oral and I.V. fluids may
be necessary. Fever, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and dehydration are
conditions for which fluids should be encouraged.
Sample Nursing Board Exam Review Questions 4
1. All of the following are common signs and symptoms of phlebitis except:
1. Pain or discomfort at the IV insertion site
2. Edema and warmth at the IV insertion site
3. A red streak exiting the IV insertion site
4. Frank bleeding at the insertion site
2. The best way of determining whether a patient has learned to instill ear medication
properly is for the nurse to:
1. Ask the patient if he/she has used ear drops before
2. Have the patient repeat the nurse’s instructions using her own words
3. Demonstrate the procedure to the patient and encourage to ask questions
4. Ask the patient to demonstrate the procedure
Correct Answer: D. Return demonstration provides the most certain evidence for
evaluating the effectiveness of patient teaching.
3. Which of the following types of medications can be administered via gastrostomy tube?
1. Any oral medications
2. Capsules whole contents are dissolve in water
3. Enteric-coated tablets that are thoroughly dissolved in water
4. Most tablets designed for oral use, except for extended-duration compounds
5. A patient has returned to his room after femoral arteriography. All of the following are
appropriate nursing interventions except:
1. Assess femoral, popliteal, and pedal pulses every 15 minutes for 2 hours
2. Check the pressure dressing for sanguineous drainage
3. Assess a vital signs every 15 minutes for 2 hours
4. Order a hemoglobin and hematocrit count 1 hour after the arteriography
Correct Answer: A. Coughing, a protective response that clears the respiratory tract of
irritants, usually is involuntary; however it can be voluntary, as when a patient is taught
to perform coughing exercises. An antitussive drug inhibits coughing. Splinting the
abdomen supports the abdominal muscles when a patient coughs.
7. An infected patient has chills and begins shivering. The best nursing intervention is to:
1. Apply iced alcohol sponges
2. Provide increased cool liquids
3. Provide additional bedclothes
4. Provide increased ventilation
Correct Answer: C. In an infected patient, shivering results from the body’s attempt to
increase heat production and the production of neutrophils and phagocytotic action
through increased skeletal muscle tension and contractions. Initial vasoconstriction may
cause skin to feel cold to the touch. Applying additional bed clothes helps to equalize the
body temperature and stop the chills. Attempts to cool the body result in further
shivering, increased metabloism, and thus increased heat production.
Correct Answer: D. A clinical nurse specialist must have completed a master’s degree in
a clinical specialty and be a registered professional nurse. The National League of
Nursing accredits educational programs in nursing and provides a testing service to
evaluate student nursing competence but it does not certify nurses. The American Nurses
Association identifies requirements for certification and offers examinations for
certification in many areas of nursing., such as medical surgical nursing. These
certification (credentialing) demonstrates that the nurse has the knowledge and the
ability to provide high quality nursing care in the area of her certification. A graduate of
an associate degree program is not a clinical nurse specialist: however, she is prepared
to provide bed side nursing with a high degree of knowledge and skill. She must
successfully complete the licensing examination to become a registered professional
nurse.
Correct Answer: D. Bile colors the stool brown. Any inflammation or obstruction that
impairs bile flow will affect the stool pigment, yielding light, clay-colored stool. Upper
GI bleeding results in black or tarry stool. Constipation is characterized by small, hard
masses. Many medications and foods will discolor stool – for example, drugs containing
iron turn stool black.; beets turn stool red.
1. Which intervention would the nurse anticipate as the initial action to be included in the care
plan for a client experiencing a tension pneumothorax?
2. When teaching a group of women about breast health awareness and breast self-examination
(BSE) at a local community center, the nurse follows the American Cancer Society (ACS)
recommendations. Which recommendation would the nurse include in the teaching program?
A. Bimonthly BSE and yearly mammograms beginning after the woman has had her first child
B. Optional monthly BSE, yearly clinical examination, and yearly mammograms after age 40
C. Quarterly BSE until the age of 70 after which breast health awareness is no longer necessary
D. Yearly BSE and follow up clinical examinations after onset of menses
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The ACS recommends a yearly clinical examination and yearly mammograms in
clients older than age 40. Monthly self-breast examination is an option for women starting in
their 20s. The risk of breast cancer increases with age. At age 80, there is a 1 in 8 risk of
developing breast cancer.
3. When providing postoperative care after a bowel resection to a client with a pre-existing
history of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) with frequent exacerbations, for which
complication should the nurse be alert?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The client is at high risk for developing acute respiratory failure because of his
history of chronic lung disease requiring frequent intubations, the anesthesia used during
surgery, and the experience of surgery. Airway obstruction and atelectasis are postoperative
complications, but there is no evidence that this client would be at greater risk for these
complication than anyone else. The operative procedure and the client’s medical history would
not place this client at a greater risk for postoperative pneumothorax as compared to any other
postoperative client.
4. The nurse is doing preoperative teaching for a client about to have a mechanical valve
replacement. Which client statement indicates effective teaching?
A. “I need to make sure I have someone to care for me after this same-day surgery procedure.”
B. “I will always need to take anticoagulants to prevent the formation of blood clots.”
C. “I will need to take several days of steroids each time I have major dental work done.”
D. “Because my valve is from a pig, I need to take precautions to prevent rejection of the valve.”
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Following mechanical valve replacement surgery, clients need to be educated about
the need for lifelong oral anticoagulant therapy. (Povine or bovine valve replacements do not
require anticoagulants.) Valve replacement surgery is not performed as a day surgery
procedure; it requires that the client be admitted to a critical care unit for constant monitoring
due to the potential for complications. Prophylactic antibiotics, not steroids, are needed after
valve replacement surgery. Rejection of the artificial valve is not a major problem associated
with valve replacement surgery.
5. Which collaborative intervention would be included in the care plan for a client with a venous
stasis ulcer to assist with healing?
A. Antiembolism stockings
B. Plaster cast sock
C. Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulator (TENS)
D. Unna boot
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: An Unna boot is medicated gauze applied to the affected limb from the toes to the
knees after the ulcer is cleaned. The boot is then wrapped in plastic wrap and hardens like a cast
promoting venous return and preventing stasis. Antiembolism stockings are fit tightly and can
traumatize an ulcer when applied. A plaster cast sock is usually applied to a residual limb
following amputation to reduce edema. TENS is used as a pain relief measure; it would have no
effect on healing.
6. A client with pulmonary edema is receiving mechanical ventilation with positive end-
expiratory pressure (PEEP). When explaining to a student about the rationale for using PEEP, the
nurse would indicate which rationale as its major purpose?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: PEEP helps keep the alveoli expanded, increasing the area available for gas
exchange, thus improving the client’s oxygenation. PEEP has no effect on the client’s ability to
rest, decreases pulmonary capillary pressure, and decreases the client’s carbon dioxide level by
increasing the area for gas exchange.
7. The nurse teaches a client about residual limb care following an amputation and assesses that
he understood the teaching when he demonstrates which behavior?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Lying prone for several hours each day helps prevent hip contractures and
demonstrates compliance with the treatment regimen. Using lotions keeps the skin soft; however,
following an amputation, the skin needs to become tough. New guidelines recommend elevating
the foot of the bed because a pillow can cause flexion contractures of the hip. Adhesive bandages
irritate the skin, leading to sores, breakdown, and infection.
A. Calling the health care provider and getting a stat electrocardiogram (ECG)
B. Checking the rhythm strip and assessing blood pressure
C. Decreasing the lidocaine and instituting seizure precautions
D. Having the client lie down and administering atropine
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Before doing anything else, the nurse needs to check the rhythm strip and assess the
client’s blood pressure to determine the possible cause of the client’s complaints and gather
additional data so that a full report can be made to the health care provider. An ECG is not
needed for diagnosis of arrhythmia when a rhythm strip will suffice. The client is not exhibiting
signs of lidocaine toxicity and, in fact, the lidocaine may need to be increased. Atropine is the
drug of choice for sinus bradycardia, not premature ventricular contractions.
9. The nurse knows a client with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) understands the
discharge teaching when he makes which statement?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Secretions are often very thick and difficult to expectorate for clients with COPD;
drinking at least 2 liters of fluid per day will help to thin the secretions and aid in expectoration.
Hypnotics and sedatives such as sleeping pills depress respirations and should be avoided. The
client needs to pace himself and his activities to minimize energy expenditures and prevent
exertion. The client should eliminate exposure to irritants such a smoking.
10. Which assessment finding indicates that furosemide (Lasix), a loop-diuretic, ordered for an
elderly client is achieving its intended results?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Furosemide is commonly used as an initial step in treating hypertension. For the
elderly client, a systolic blood pressure of 150 mm Hg would be considered normal and thus
indicative that the drug therapy is effective. Pitting edema of +4 indicates that the drug is not
achieving its intended result because fluid is still present; the client’s medication regime needs
to be adjusted or changed. Furosemide has no effect on calf muscle; relief of tenderness in the
calf is seen in deep vein thrombosis. Loop diuretics do not typically relieve cramping.
1. When caring for a client with arterial occlusive disease of the extremities, what would the
nurse include in the client’s teaching plan?
A. Changing positions frequently and elevating the legs above the heart to promote venous return
in the legs
B. Elevating the arm on a pillow with the elbow higher than the shoulder and the hand higher
than the elbow
C. Elevating the foot of the bed about 6″ (15.2 cm) while the client is sleeping to promote venous
return
D. Keeping the legs in a dependent position in relationship to the heart to improve peripheral
blood flow
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The client with arterial occlusive disease needs to enhance the blood supply to the
body parts affected; keeping legs in a dependent position in relationship to the heart to improve
peripheral blood flow enhances the blood flow to the extremities. Changing positions frequently
and elevating the legs above the heart to promote venous return in the legs should be included in
teaching for the client with varicose veins. Elevating the arm on a pillow with the elbow higher
than the shoulder and hand higher than the elbow helps to promote lymphatic drainage.
Elevating the foot of the bed about 6″ while the client is sleeping to promote venous return is
appropriate for the client with deep vein thrombosis.
2. While caring for a client with a new amputation, the dressing inadvertently comes off the
stump. Which intervention should the nurse implement first?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Because excessive edema will develop in a short time, resulting in delays in
rehabilitation, the nurse should wrap the limb with an elastic compression bandage immediately.
Before a tourniquet would be applied, the nurse would need to assess the client for signs and
symptoms of bleeding because applying a tourniquet could compromise the circulatory and
neurologic status of the limb. Elevating the limb above heart level could cause contractures; in
this case, venous return is not a major concern. The supine position is contraindicated. The
nurse needs to keep the stump elevated by raising the foot of the bed.
3. Which assessment finding would the nurse expect to assess in a client with emphysema?
A. Copious sputum
B. Cor pulmonale
C. Anemia
D. Distant breath sounds
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: With emphysema, air trapping and chronic hyperexpansion of the lungs lead to
distant breath sounds. Copious amounts of sputum are produced with chronic bronchitis; with
emphysema, sputum production is usually scant. Cor pulmonale (right-sided heart failure) is
more commonly associated with chronic bronchitis than emphysema. Polycythemia, an increase
in red blood cells, may occur, but emphysema does not lead to anemia.
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Uncontrolled coughing in the client following a thoracentesis may indicate the
development of pulmonary edema that requires immediate attention. Bilateral crackles may
indicate underlying inflammation or congestion, but immediate attention is not necessary.
Complaints of pain at the needle insertion site and symmetrical respirations are normal findings.
5. A client arrives in the emergency department following a motor vehicle accident with multiple
injuries to the head, chest, and extremities with minimal bleeding. Which would the nurse assess
first?
A. Airway status
B. Blood pressure
C. Level of consciousness
D. Quality of peripheral pulses
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: When dealing with an emergency, the ABCs — airway, breathing, and circulation —
are the priorities and must be maintained first. Blood pressure, neurological, and neurovascular
assessments are important, but in this case, airway is the priority.
6. A client receiving nasogastric tube feedings for the past 48 hours develops a hacking cough, a
fever of 100.6° F (38.1° C), and is moderately dyspneic. Which complication would the nurse
suspect?
A. Aspiration pneumonia
B. Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
C. Pleural effusion
D. Pneumoconioses
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Nasogastric tube feedings may result in aspiration leading to pneumonia, suggested
by the hacking cough, low-grade fever, and moderate dyspnea. Clients with COPD have a
chronic cough and usually are afebrile. Clients with pleural effusion usually have no cough and
are afebrile. Clients with pneumoconioses present with chronic cough and progressive dyspnea.
7. A client is admitted to the health care facility with a diagnosis of acute arterial occlusion.
While performing a physical assessment, what would the nurse expect to observe?
A. Cramping
B. Elephatism
C. Phantom pain
D. Pulselessness
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Pulselessness is one of the common manifestations of acute arterial occlusion
secondary to cessation of blood flow distal to the occlusion. Cramping is a common complaint
associated with varicose veins. Elephantism is an indication of secondary lymphedema.
Phantom pain is pain noted following a limb amputation.
8. A client with leukemia is undergoing radiation therapy to the brain and spinal cord. In
planning care for this client, the nurse would include which nursing intervention?
A. A scalp ointment to prevent dryness B. Avoiding washing off the target’s marksC. Not
allowing the client to use a hat or scarf
D. A dandruff shampoo twice daily
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The marks made by the radiation oncologist guide the technician in configuring the
external beam to irradiate the area in question without causing damage to other tissues. These
marks must remain in place and should not be washed off. Ointments, which are petroleum-
based, could cause a radiation burn to the area. The client should be encouraged to use a hat or
scarf when in the sun to prevent damage to the scalp skin and at night to prevent loss of body
heat through the scalp; hats and scarves also help to foster a positive body image. Dandruff
shampoo includes harsh chemicals that could damage already fragile skin; the area being
irradiated should be washed with water and the skin patted dry.
9. Which intervention would the nurse include in the teaching plan for a client diagnosed with
gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Clients with GERD should avoid eating prior to retiring or lying down to decrease
the incidence of reflux. The client with GERD will be prescribed a low-fat, high-fiber diet.
Antibiotics are not used to treat GERD, although antibiotics are used for clients with
<i>Helicobacter pylori</i> infection and peptic ulcer disease. The client with GERD should
elevate the head on pillows or use blocks under the head of the bed to minimize reflux.
10. Which would the nurse include in the discharge teaching plan for an elderly client diagnosed
with pneumonia?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Pneumonia typically causes thick secretions that may be difficult for the elderly
client to expectorate; increasing fluid intake will help thin secretions, ultimately aiding in their
removal. Postural drainage usually is recommended for clients diagnosed with bronchitis and
emphysema. Pursed lip breathing and oxygen therapy usually are recommended for clients with
chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. A client with pneumonia typically does not require
oxygen at home.
1. A client who is complaining of right lower quadrant pain, nausea, and vomiting has a low-
grade fever, rebound tenderness, and an elevated white blood cell (WBC) count. Which
intervention should the nurse perform first?
A. Administering antacids for gastroenteritis
B. Advising the client to assume a high Fowler’s position for a peptic ulcer
C. Calling the surgeon in anticipation of an appendectomy
D. Suggesting a course of antibiotics to treat peritonitis
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The client is exhibiting classic findings associated with appendicitis, which requires
surgery as soon as possible; notifying the surgeon should be the nurse’s first action. Rebound
tenderness is not associated with gastroenteritis, which is characterized by generalized
abdominal cramping, diarrhea, fever, and malaise. A high Fowler’s position would not alleviate
pain produced by a peptic ulcer, which includes burning, aching, and gnawing pain. Nausea and
vomiting are not generally associated with peritonitis, which is indicated by diffuse abdominal
pain, rebound tenderness, fever, and an elevated WBC count.
2. Which assessment finding would be an appropriate indicator for evaluating a client with heart
failure and a nursing diagnosis of decreased cardiac output?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Fatigue may be associated with decreased cardiac output; an increase in the client’s
ability to ambulate to the bathroom without fatigue indicates improvement in cardiac output. A
decrease in intermittent claudication indicates improved peripheral perfusion, but it does not
demonstrate increased cardiac output. The body normally responds to a decrease in cardiac
output by increasing the heart rate. Weight gain indicates fluid retention and a worsening of the
client’s heart failure.
3. A client who has frostbite is complaining of pain. In addition to giving medication, which
nursing intervention should the nurse implement?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Elevation of the body part helps to reduce the edema associated with frostbite.
Sodium bicarbonate is indicated for the treatment of hypothermia. Massaging the affected area
may result in further tissue damage. Warm, humidified oxygen is used as treatment for
hypothermia.
4. A client scheduled for a biopsy of a mass asks the nurse to explain why this surgery is
necessary. Which statement would be the nurse’s best response?
A. “The physician removes the precancerous mass to prevent cancer from occurring.”
B. “This is diagnostic surgery done to confirm or rule out malignancy.”
C. “This will provide a more realistic look to the body part.”
D. “This will relieve your distress and help you to be more comfortable.”
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: A biopsy is performed to aid in diagnosing whether a mass is benign or malignant.
Preventative surgery is done to remove tissue prior to its becoming cancerous; whether or not
the mass is precancerous has yet to be determined. Reconstructive surgery provides a more
realistic look to a body part. Palliative surgery is used to relieve the client’s distress and help
make him more comfortable.
5. A client with deep venous thrombosis develops a sudden onset of severe leg pain. The limb
becomes pale, cold, numb, and pulseless. What medical condition would the nurse suspect?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The change in color, temperature, sensation, and pulse accompanied by the sudden
onset of pain (the classic “P’s” of assessment) all suggest an acute arterial occlusion. A
dissecting aneurysm usually occurs in the chest, not the legs; a tearing or ripping sensation of
pain in the anterior chest, back, epigastric region, or abdomen is common. Postphlebitic
syndrome is characterized by a brownish discoloration of the skin, the hallmark sign. Raynaud’s
phenomenon involves the episodic constriction of the small arteries or arterioles of the
extremities, resulting in intermittent pallor and cyanosis of the skin, fingers, toes and, possibly,
the ears or nose, followed by hyperemia, which may produce rubor.
6. When obtaining the history of a client admitted with endocarditis, which information from the
client interview would the nurse consider as most significant?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Dental surgery is one of the predisposing factors for the development of endocarditis
because it may create a portal of entry for microorganisms. A history of valvular heart disease
(not CAD), I.V. drug use (not marijuana use), and prolonged I.V. antibiotic therapy (not steroid
therapy) are predisposing factors for endocarditis.
7. When assessing a client diagnosed with an abdominal aortic aneurysm, the nurse monitors the
client for which signs and symptoms?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: A pulsatile mass and systolic bruit are classic signs of an abdominal aortic
aneurysm. Intermittent episodes of high fever with chills are associated with secondary
lymphedema or other infections. Paresthesias and loss of position sense are associated with
peripheral arterial occlusive disease as well as neurovascular and neurologic conditions. A
positive Homans’ sign and calf pain are symptoms of deep vein thrombosis.
8. Which scientific rationale must the nurse keep in mind when administering oxygen to a client
with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The primary stimulus to breathe for the client with COPD is hypoxia. If oxygen were
administered at too high a rate, the client’s respiratory drive would be depressed. The increased
effectiveness of using a facemask as opposed to a nasal cannula has not been proven. Due to
loss of supporting structures and narrowing of airways, the condition is irreversible;
intermittent oxygen is not effective.
9. Which client would require the nurse to be on highest alert for the development of a
pulmonary embolism (PE)?
A. A woman who has taken hormonal contraceptives for the past 2 years
B. A client who has had laparoscopic gallbladder surgery
C. A client with arterial vascular disease and difficulty walking
D. A client who has experienced multiple trauma and fractures
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: A client with massive trauma and multiple orthopedic injuries is at increased risk for
developing a PE. The injury may predispose the client to fat emboli and bony fragments that can
become emboli, and the prolonged period of immobility that results from the injuries and their
treatment further compounds the client’s risk. Women on hormonal contraceptives have a
slightly higher risk for PE, but this risk is not as great as that for the client experiencing multiple
trauma and fractures. The risk for cardiovascular complications increases after age 35 in
women who smoke and after age 40 in women who do not smoke. Laparoscopic cholecystectomy
is now considered a relatively minor procedure requiring a short hospitalization, usually in an
outclient department. A client with arterial vascular disease may be at increased risk for
pulmonary emboli but PE usually develops in the venous system.
10. Which assessment finding would be the most appropriate indicator for evaluating the
adequacy of gas exchange for the postoperative client with a thoracotomy?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Following a thoracotomy, the goal is to promote adequate gas exchange, evidenced
by objective parameters including oxygen saturation, normal blood gases, and breath sounds.
Effective coughing and deep breathing help to maintain a patent airway and promote lung
expansion, but they do not ensure adequate gas exchange. Although client reports of breathing
without difficulty are an important assessment, adequacy of gas exchange is best evaluated by
objective findings. Assessment and pain relief is important, but pain relief is not a reliable
indicator of adequate gas exchange.
1. When auscultating the breath sounds of a client with bacterial pneumonia, the nurse would
expect to find which assessment data?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: In normal, clear lungs, bronchial breath sounds would be heard over the large
airways and vesicular breath sounds would be heard over the clear lungs. With pneumonia,
exudate fills the air spaces producing consolidation and bronchial breath sounds over these
areas. Adventitious breath sounds, including crackles and wheezes, would be indicative of acute
respiratory failure. Decreased breath sounds with crackles and a pleural friction rub would
suggest a pulmonary embolism. Wheezing with expiration that is more prolonged than
inspiration is indicative of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.
2. When documenting the assessment finding of a client with emphysema who has an increase in
the anteroposterior diameter of the chest, which term would the nurse use?
A. Barrel chest
B. Flail chest
C. Funnel chest
D. Pigeon chest
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Barrel chest is a term that refers to an increase in the anteroposterior diameter of
the chest, resulting from overinflation of the lungs. A flail chest results from fractured ribs when
a portion of the chest pulls inward upon inspiration. A funnel chest refers to a depression of the
lower part of the sternum. A pigeon chest refers to an anterior displacement of the sternum
protruding beyond the abdominal plane.
3. When caring for a client with a chest tube inserted in the right chest wall, which assessment
data would lead the nurse to suspect that the client is experiencing a tension pneumothorax?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Decreased ventilation in the opposite lung is indicative of a mediastinal shift, which
leads to a tension pneumothorax. A cough with purulent sputum is usually seen in clients
diagnosed with pneumonia. Hemoptysis is indicative of lung disease, such as pulmonary
embolism and lung cancer. Subcutaneous emphysema, air accumulation in the tissues giving a
crackling sensation when palpitated, is usually associated with chest trauma.
4. When evaluating risk for developing cancer, which client would the nurse identify as having
the highest risk?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Exposure to certain chemicals such as tar, soot, asphalt, oils, and sunlight put this
occupation at the highest risk. Also, meats and potatoes are low in fiber, contributing to the risk
of cancer. Plus, some processed meats contain chemicals that have been implicated in the
development of cancer. Breast-feeding does not increase the client’s risk of developing cancer.
Office work also is not considered a risk factor. Working with cancer clients does not increase a
person’s risk for developing cancer. Vitamins C and E have been shown to demonstrate
preventative attributes. A vegetarian diet is considered to be a healthier diet for deduction of
cancer risk because it provides increased fiber. Cruciferous vegetables have been shown to be
preventative. Working in a convenience store does not increase risk.
5. A client with a history of coronary artery disease begins to experience chest pain. After putting
the client on bedrest and administering a nitroglycerin tablet sublingually, which intervention
should the nurse implement first?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: For the client experiencing chest pain, obtaining a 12-lead ECG is a priority to
reveal possible changes occurring during an acute anginal attack that will be helpful in
treatment. Before calling the health care provider, the nurse should obtain the results of the 12-
lead ECG so that these results can be communicated to him. A CK-MB level may be ordered
later and the client may need angioplasty in the near future, but getting the 12-lead ECG during
the chest pain is the most important priority.
6. Which signs and symptoms would alert the nurse to the possibility of a major complication in
a client with pericarditis?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: A major complication associated with pericarditis is pericardial effusion or cardiac
tamponade manifested by hypotension and muffled heart sounds. Crushing chest pain and
diaphoresis are signs of myocardial infarction. Dyspnea and copious blood-tinged, frothy
sputum are signs of acute pulmonary edema, a complication of left-sided heart failure.
Tachycardia and oliguria are signs of hemorrhagic shock.
7. Which assessment finding would the nurse identify as indicative of a client’s altered
peripheral vascular function?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The ankle arm index is an objective indicator of arterial disease. Normal value is
1.0. Values less than 0.5 indicate ischemic rest pain. A capillary refill time of less than 3 seconds
is considered normal. A diastolic blood pressure of 84 mm Hg is considered within the normal
range. Pulses graded as +4 are considered normal.
8. Which valvular disorder would the nurse suspect in a client presenting with fatigue,
hemoptysis, and dyspnea on exertion?
A. Aortic insufficiency
B. Aortic stenosis
C. Mitral insufficiency
D. Mitral stenosis
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Mitral stenosis is an obstruction of blood flowing from the left atrium into the left
ventricle, commonly manifested by progressive fatigue due to low cardiac output, hemoptysis,
and dyspnea on exertion secondary to pulmonary venous hypertension. Aortic insufficiency
refers to the backflow of blood from the aorta into the left ventricle during diastole; most clients
are asymptomatic, except for a complaint of a forceful heartbeat. Aortic stenosis refers to a
narrowing of the orifice between the left ventricle and the aorta; many clients experience no
symptoms early on, but eventually develop exertional dyspnea, dizziness, and fainting. Mitral
insufficiency refers to the backflow of blood from the left ventricle and aorta; many clients
experience no symptoms early on, but eventually develop exertional dyspnea, dizziness, and
fainting.
9. When developing a teaching plan for clients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
(COPD) about the prevention of acute exacerbations, which topic should be included?
A. Administration of antibiotics
B. Administration of oxygen as needed
C. Performance of deep-breathing and coughing exercises
D. Elimination of exposure to pulmonary irritants
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: One aspect of exacerbation prevention focuses on eliminating the causes and
contributory factors associated with COPD, such as pulmonary irritants (e.g., smoke, air
pollution, occupational irritants, and allergies). Prevention would focus on eliminating these
irritants. Antibiotics are used to treat bronchial infection during exacerbations, but they are not
used prophylactically. Although oxygen is used in managing acute exacerbations, it is not a
preventative measure. Coughing and deep breathing may help clients clear their airways and
prevent further atelectasis, but they will not prevent exacerbation.
10. Which medication would the nurse expect the health care provider to order immediately for a
client who is newly diagnosed with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)?
A. A bronchodilator
B. A corticosteroid
C. An anticoagulant
D. An antitussive agent
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Initially, for the client newly diagnosed with COPD, the health care provider would
order a bronchodilator to open the airways and ease dyspnea. Corticosteroids may be ordered
for the client with COPD, but they are usually used for acute exacerbations, not as an initial
drug. Anticoagulants interfere with the clotting cascade and would be ordered for a client with
an embolic disorder such as pulmonary embolism. An antitussive agent would be used for the
client with coughing, such as that occurring with pneumonia.
1. She may feel some mild cramping when the dye is inserted
2. The sonogram of the uterus will reveal any tumors present
3. She will not able to conceive 3 months after the procedure
4. Many women experience mild bleeding as an after effect
Correct Answer: 1. She may feel some mild cramping when the dye is inserted
2. Bob Carl asks you what artificial insemination by donor entails. Which would be best
answer?
Correct Answer: 2. Donor sperm are introduced vaginally into the uterus or cervix
3. Cheryl Carl is having a GIFT procedure. What makes her a good candidate for this
procedure?
1. She has patent fallopian tubes, so fertilizes ova can be implanted into them
2. She is Rh negative, a necessary stipulation to rule out Rh incompatibility
3. She is a normal uterus, so spem can be injected through the cervix into it
4. Her husband is taking sildenafil (Viagra), so all his sperm will be motile
Correct Answer: 1.She has patent fallopian tubes, so fertilizes ova can be implanted into them
4. Amy Alvarez is pregnant with her first child. Her phenotype refers to.
5. Amy Alvarez is a balanced translocation carrier for Down syndrome. This term means that:
1. All of the children will be born with some aspects of Down syndrome
2. All of her female and none of her male children will have Down syndrome
3. She has a greater than average chance a child will have Down syndrome
4. Its impossible for any of her children to be born with Down syndrome
Correct Answer: 3.She has a greater than average chance a child will have Down syndrome
6. Amy Alvarez has told a genetic councelling session that she is a balanced translocation carrier
for Down syndrome. What would be your best action regarding this information?
Correct Answer: 4. Ask Amy if she has any questions that you could answer for her
7. Amy Alvarez child is born with Down syndrome. What is a common physical feature of
newborns eith this disorder?
8. Liz Calhorn asks how much longer her doctor will refer to the baby inside her as an embryo.
What would be your best explanation?
Correct Answer:4.From the time of implantation until 5 to 8 weeks, the bay is an embryo
1. Liz Calon is worried that her baby will be born with a congenital heart disease. What
asessment of a fetus at birth is important to help detect congenital heart defects?
9. Asessing whether the Whartons jelly of the cord has a pH higher than 7.2
1. Asessing whether the umbilical cord has 2 arteries and 1 vein
2. Measuring the length of the cord to be certain that it is longer than 3 feet
3. Determining that the color of the umbilical cord is not green.
Correct Answer: 1. Asessing whether the umbilical cord has 2 arteries and 1 vein
10. Liz calon asks you why her doctor is so concerned about whether her fetus is producing
surfactant or not. Your best answer would be:
1. Surfactant keeps lungs from collapsing on expiration, and thus newborn breathing
2. Surfactant is produced by the fetal liver, so its presence reveals liver maturity
3. Surfactant is the precursor to IGM antibody production, so it prevents infection
4. Surfactant reaveals amture kidney function,as it is produced by kidney glomeruli.
Correct Answer: 1. Surfactant keeps lungs from collapsing on expiration, and thus newborn
breathing
1. Liz Calon is scheduled to have an ultrasound examination. What instruction would you
give her before her examination?
Correct Answer: 3. You will need to drink at least 3 glasses of fluid before the procedure
2. Liz Calon is scheduled to have an amniocentesis to test for fetal maturity. What
instruction would you give her before this procedure?
Correct Answer: 1. void immediately before the procedure to reduce your bladder size
3. Lauren sometimes feels ambivalent about being pregnant. What is the psychological task
you’d like to see her complete during the first trimester of pregnancy?
4. Lauren Maxwell is aware that shes been showing some narcissism since becoming
pregnant. Which of her actions best describe narcissism?
5. Lauren Maxwell did a urine pregnancytest but was surprised to learn that a positive result
is not a sure sign of pregnancy. She asks you what would be a positive sign. You tell her a
positive sign would be if:
6. lauren Maxwell’s doctor told her she has a positive Chadwick’s sign. She asks you what
this means, and you tell her that:
7. Lauren Maxwell overheard her doctor say that the insulin is not as effective during
pregnancy as usual. That made her worry that she is developing diabetes, like her aunt. How
would you explain how decreased insulin effectiveness safeguards the fetus?
Correct Answer: 1. Decreased effectiveness prevents the fetus from being hypoglycaemic
8. Sandra Czerinski feels well. She asks you why needs to come for prenatal care. The best
reason for her to receive regular care is:
Correct Answer: 3.It provides time for education about pregnancy and birth
9. Why is it important to ask Sandra about past surgery on a pregnancy health history?
Corrrect Answer: 3.Adhesion from the surgery could limit uterine growth
10. Sandra reports that the palms of her hands are always itchy. You notice scratches on them
when you do a physical exam. What is most likely cause of this finding during pregnancy?
1. Sandra has not had a pelvic exam since she was in highschool. What advice would you
give her to help her relax during her first prenatal pelvic exam?
1. have her take a deep breath and hold it during the exam
2. Tell her to bear down slightly as the speculum is inserted
3. Singing outlouds helps, because it pushes down the diaphragm
4. She should breathe slowly and evenly during the exam
Correct Answer: 4. She should breathe slowly and evenly during the exam
2. Sandra has pelvic measurement taken. What size should the ischial tuberosity siameter to be
to considered adequate?
1. 6cm
2. Twice the width of the conjugate diameter
3. 11cm
4. Half the width of the symphysis pubis
3. Which ststement by Juliberry Adams would alert you that she needs more teaching about safe
practices during pregnancy?
1. “I take either a shower or tub bath, because I know both are safe.”
2. “I wash my breast with clear water, not with soap daily.”
3. “Im glad I don’t have to ask my boyfriend to use condom anymore”
4. “Im wearing low heeled shoes to try and avoid back ache”
Correct Answer:2. “Im glad I don’t have to ask my boyfriend to use condom anymore”
4. Juliberry Adams describes her typical day to you. What would alert you that she may need
further pregnancy advice?
Correct Answer: 1.“I jog rather than walk every time I can for exercise”
5. Juliberry adams tells you she is developing oainful hemorrhoids. Advice you would give her
would be;
Correct Answer: 4. Witch hazel pads feel cool against swollen hemorrhoids.
6. juliberry Adams has ankle edema by the end of each day. Which statement by her would
reveal that she undertand what causes this?
Correct Answer: 3. “I’ll rest in a simss position to take pressure off lower extremity veins”
7. Julliberry Adams makes the following statements. Which one is the safest practice?
1. “My brother takes medicine for heartburn; if I get that ill just borrow his”
2. “Im going to get a measles shot; I don’t want measles while I am pregnant”
3. “there are so many medicines for headache, I have to ask my doctor what to take”
4. “I know all-over-the-counter medicine is safe; it’s why it’s over all counter.”
Correct Answer: 3. “there are so many medicines for headache, I have to ask my doctor what to
take”
8. Suppose Toni Alarino has a normal BMI. What would be the recommend weight gain for her
during pregnancy?
1. 10lbs
2. 20lbs
3. 30lbs
4. 60lbs
9. Which statement by Toni lets you know she understand how iron is best absorbed
10. You need to obtain a nutrition history from Toni. What is the best way to do this?
1. Ask her to tell you how much protein she eats daily
2. Asess if Toni feels satisfied or not with her nutrition
3. Ask Toni to describe what she ate in the last 24 hours
4. tell Toni to describe her concept of ideal nutrition
Correct Answer: 4. Ask Toni to describe what she ate in the last 24 hours
1. An infant is born with a bilateral cleft palate. Plans are made to begin reconstruction
immediately. Nursing intervention to promote parent-infant bonding should include:
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: A. By demonstrating acceptance of the infant, without regard for the defect, the nurse
acts as a role model for the parents, thus enhancing their acceptance. B. Infants with cleft
palates can remain in the newborn nursery; they should not be hidden. C. This is false
reassurance; it does not promote parent-infant bonding.D. The parents should be encouraged to
have frequent contact with their infant to promote bonding.
2. A pregnant client’s labor is to be induced at 39 week’s gestation. The nurse is aware that
several drugs are currently utilized for inducing labor. Select all that apply.
A. Oxytocin (Pitocin)
B. Misprostol (Cytotec)
C. Ergonovine (Ergotrate)
D. Carboprost (Hemabate)
E. Dinoprostone (Prepidil)
Correct Answer:: A
Rationale: Pitocin is an oxytocic used for labor induction. Cytotec is a prostaglandin used for
cervical ripening and labor induction. Ergotrate is an oxytocis used for postpartum or
postabortion hemorrhage, not labor induction. Hemobate is a prostaglandin used for pospartum
hemmorrhage, not labor induction. Prepidil is used for cervical ripening, not labor induction.
3. It is important for the nurse to support the parent’s decision to abort a fetus with a birth defect
because:
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: A. Support may help, but it does not completely alleviate guilt feelings. B. Support
does not affect the legal responsibility of the parents. C. Although support will help minimize
guilt, it will not eliminate it; however will sustain family cohesion and unity. D. This may help,
but it cannot completely relieve pressure.
4. During the first hours following delivery, the postpartum client is given intravenous fluids
with oxytocin (Pitocin) added to them. The nurse understands the primary reason for this is:
A. To facilitate elimination
B. To prevent infection
C. To promote analgesia
D. To promote uterine contraction
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Oxytocin is a hormone produced by the pituitary gland that produces intermittent
uterine contractions, helping to promote uterine involution. The intravenous fluid may facilitate
elimination, but oxytocin does not affect bowel or bladder elimination. Oxytocin has no
antibacterial or analgesic action.
5. During the postpartum period, while considering nursing measures to help parent-child
relationships, the nurse should be aware that the most important factor at this time is the:
A. Anesthesia during labor
B. Duration and difficulty of labor
C. Physical condition of the infant
D. Health status during pregnancy
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: A. Though the effect of an anesthesia is a factor, the most important factor is the
physical condition of the infant.B. Though the duration and difficulty of labor is a factor, the
most important factor is the physical condition of the infant. C. Bonding between parent and
baby is most successful when interaction is possible right after birth; if the child is ill, contact is
limited. D. Health status during pregnancy may be a factor, but the most important factor is the
physical condition of the infant.
6. The uterus rise out of the pelvis and becomes an abdominal organ at about the:
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: A. The uterus is still within the pelvic area. B. The uterus is still within the pelvic
area. C. By this time the fetus and placenta have grown, expanding the size of the uterus. The
extended uterus expands into the abdominal cavity. D. The uterus has already risen out of the
pelvis and is expanding farther into the abdominal area.
7. A client suspects that she is pregnant, but because she is the only wage earner in her family,
she is ambivalent about continuing the pregnancy. The nurse recognizes that the client is in crisis
and also remembers that pregnancy and birth are considered crises because:
8. When caring for a family on a postpartum unit, the nurse must be aware that all the tasks,
responsibilities, and attitudes that make up child care can be called parenting and that either
parent can exhibit these qualities. A person is able to perform parenting because of:
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: A. Marriage is not essential for good parenting. B. Parenting is learned, not inborn.
C. Parenting is not an inborn instinct rather a learned behavior based on past experiences or
current instruction. D. This knowledge does not ensure the ability to parent.
9. During labor a client who has been receiving epidural anesthesia has a sudden episode of
severe nausea, and her skin becomes pale and clammy. The nurse’s immediate reaction should be
to:
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: A. If signs and symptoms do not abate after elevation of the legs, the physician
should be notified. B. Maternal hypotension is a common complication of this anesthesia for
labor, and nausea is one of the first clues that this has occurred. Elevating the extremities
restores blood to the central circulation. C. This is not a specific observation after caudal
anesthesia; it is part of the general nursing care during labor. D. If the FHR is being monitored,
it is a constant process; if not, the FHR should be monitored every 15 minutes.
10. After ovulation has occurred, the ovum is believed to remain viable for:
A. 1 to 6 hours
B. 12 to 18 hours
C. 24 to 36 hours
D. 48 to 72 hours
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: A. The ovum is viable a longer time. B. The ovum is viable a longer time. C. The
ovum is capable of being fertilized for only 24 to 36 hours following ovulation; after this time it
travels a variable distance between the fallopian tube and uterus, disintegrates, and is
phagocytized by leukocytes. 4. The ovum is not fertilizable after 36 hours.
A. Requiring the mother to assist with simple aspects of her infant’s care
B. Encouraging the mother to decide between breastfeeding and formula feeding
C. Allowing the mother ample time to undress and to carefully inspect her infant
D. Unobtrusive observation of the mother and her infant to watch for a disturbed relationship
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: A. The client will proceed at her own rate; requiring her to do things is not
supportive. B. The mother should have made this decision before delivery. C. Allowing the
mother time to inspect the child permits viewing, touching, and holding, promoting bonding. D.
This can be done only by allowing the mother ample time to interact with her baby.
2. A client undergoing treatment for infertility is diagnosed as having endometriosis. The nurse is
aware that one of the drugs that may be used to treat this condition is:
A. Relaxin (Releasin)
B. Leuprolide (Lupron)
C. Ergonovine (Ergotrate)
D. Esterfied estrogen (Climestrone)
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Continuous administration of Lupron decreases LH and FSH, as well as hormone-
dependent tissue. Relaxin is used for dysmenorrhea; it causes relaxation of the symphysis pubis.
Ergotrate is used to contract the uterus. Esterfied estrogen (Climestrone) is an estrogen that
affects release of pituitary gonadotropins and inhibits ovulation.
3. Research concerning the emotional factors of pregnancy indicates:
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: A. Frequently the maternal instinct is nurtured by the sight of the infant. B. Because
mothering is not an inborn instinct, almost all mothers, including multiparas, report some
ambivalence and anxiety about their ability to be good mothers. C. It may take a much longer
time. D. Ambivalent feelings are universal in response to a neonate.
4. Which of the following instructions would be included in a client’s postpartum teaching plan
about performing Kegel exercises to restore perineal muscle tone?
A. Alternately flexing and extending each foot while raising her leg 6 inches off the bed
B. Contracting and relaxing perineal muscles as if stopping and starting a urinary stream
C. Contracting the abdominal muscles while raising her legs 1 inch off the bed
D. Taking deep breaths and slowly exhaling while compressing the buttocks together
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Kegel exercises require contracting the pubococcygeal muscle, the major muscle of
the pelvic floor, to increase muscle tone and provide support to the vaginal wall, bladder, and
rectum. Alternate flexing and extending the foot with raising will facilitate venous return and
help prevent thrombophlebitis. However, this exercise will not affect perineal muscle tone.
Contracting the abdominal muscles with leg raises will increase abdominal, but not perineal,
muscle tone. Deep breathing expands the lungs. Contracting gluteal muscles will not affect the
perineal, muscle tone.
5. A client visiting the prenatal clinic for the first time asks the nurse about the probability of
having twins because her husband is one of a pair of fraternal twins. The nurse should explain
that:
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: A. If there is no maternal family history of twin pregnancies, it would be a chance
occurrence that is equal to the probability found in the general population. B. Pregnant women
are routinely monitored for multiple pregnancies; this client needs information about her risk
for having twins. C. If there is no maternal family history of twin pregnancies, it would be a
chance occurrence that is equal to the probability found in the general population. D. Fraternal
twins may occur as a result of a hereditary trait, but is related to the ovaries releasing two eggs
during one ovulation; the fact that the father is a fraternal twin would not influence the female to
release two eggs during one ovulation.
6. During the process of gametogenesis, the male and female sex cells divide, and each mature
sex cell contains:
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: A. They each have one set of chromosomes (23). B. There are only 23 pairs of
chromosomes in the nuclei. C. The diploid number (46 chromosomes) is reached when
fertilization occurs. D. This is the result of a reduced chromosome number, from 46 to 23,
readying the sex cells for fertilizaiton.
7. During the postpartum period, a cardiac client with type 2 diabetes asks the nurse, “Which
contraceptives will I be able to use to prevent pregnancy in the near future?” The nurse’s best
response would be:
A. “You may use oral contraceptives. They are almost 100% effective in preventing pregnancy.”
B. “You may want to use a foam and a condom to prevent pregnancy until you consult with your
doctor at your postpartum visit.”
C. “The intrauterine device is best for you because it does not allow a fertilized ovum to become
implanted in the urerine lining.”
D. “You do not need to worry about becoming pregnant in the near future. Clients with cardiac
conditions usually become infertile.”
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: A. Oral contraceptives are not recommended for this client because of their tendency
to alter glucose tolerance. B. Some type of a barrier contraceptive (condom) is usually
recommended for the client with diabetes mellitus and a cardiac condition. C. An IUD is not
recommended because it may predispose this client to infection. D. This is untrue; clients with a
cardiac condition can become pregnant again in the future.
8. A client at 6 weeks’ gestation is receiving antibiotic theraphy for pyelonephritis. The nurse is
aware that the safest antibitioc for administration during pregnancy is:
A. Gantrisin
B. Ampicillin
B. Tetracycline
D. Nitrofurantoin
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Ampicillin has no know tertogenic effect associated with penicillin. Gantrisin
sulfonamides may cause hemolysis in the fetus. Tetracycline causes permanent yellow staining of
teeth in children whose mothers receive the drug during pregnancy. Nitrofurantion is
contraindicated in severe renal disease.
9. A client with multiple sclerosis has just confirmed her pregnancy. She states she is taking
ACTH and wonders whether she can continue taking it. The best response by the nurse would
be:
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Although ACTH is a pregnancy category C drug and it is not known whether it is
harmful to the fetus, the client’s health must be considered as well as the life of the fetus; it acts
to strengthen nerve conduction. Nausea and vomiting are not side effects of ACTH. ACTH has
been tested in pregnancy. Used during plasmapheresis is not the reason ACTH has been
prescribed; the client has multiple sclerosis.
10. After the first 3 months of pregnancy, the chief source of estrogen and progesterone is the:
A. Placenta
B. Adrenal Cortex
C. Corpus luteum
D. Anterior hypophysis
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: A. When placental formation is complete, around the 12th week of pregnancy, it
produces progesterone and estrogen. B. This is not the chief source of progesterone and
estrogen; only small amounts are secreted. C. The corpus luteum supplies the estrogen and
progesterone needed to sustain the pregnancy until the placenta is ready to take over. D. FSH is
secreted by the anterior hypophysis, but it is not secreted during pregnancy.
1. A young couple attends the prenatal clinic. The wife is 8 weeks’ pregnant and asks the clinic
nurse for information about an abortion. The nurse expresses the opinion that abortion is
immoral and that many women have long-term guilt feelings after an abortion. The couple leave
the clinic in a very disturbed state. Legally, the:
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: A. Nurses with positive attitudes toward abortion should counsel women who are
thinking of undergoing the procedure; they should know what services are available and the
various methods that are used to induce abortion. B. Nursing practice necessitates scientific
knowledge; statements must be based on fact, not personal feelings or beliefs. C. The nurse is
capable of giving information about abortion and need not defer to the physician. D. The nurse
should give the client only the information requested and should not state personal feelings.
2. A newly delivered mother with three young children at home comment to the nursery nurse
that she cannot hold the baby for feedings once she gets home. She has just too much to do, and
anyhow, it spoils the baby. The best response for the nurse to make is:
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: A. This opens up an area of communication to get at what really is troubling the
mother about feeding the baby. B. Because the nurse is aware that this is not the best method,
the problem of time should be explored with the mother. C. Holding can be accomplished at
times other than feeding periods; it does not explore the client’s feelings. D. This is true, but the
mother should not be frightened; a more gentle explanation should be used.
3. Which of the following is the most important nursing action when caring for a client who is 6
hours post cesarean birth?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: A cesarean birth is a surgical procedure involving an abdominal incision. Immobility
in the postoperative period causes secretions to pool. Also, abdominal incisions cause pain on
deep breathing. Clients with abdominal incisions need to turn, cough, and deep breathe to
mobilize secretions to prevent atelectasis and pneumonia. Anesthetic spray is applied to the
episiotomy to provide local analgesia. Clients who have had a cesarean birth do not have a
perineal incision. Six hours post cesarean birth is too soon for a shower. The client may be very
weak for the first 24 hours. Safety might be an issue. Sitz baths provide cleansing and warmth to
perineal areas for clients with episiotomies.
4. The husband of a client who is in the transitional phase of labor becomes very tense and
nervous during this period and asks the nurse, “Do you think it is best for me to leave, since I
don’t seem to do my wife much good?” The most appropriate response by the nurse would be:
A. “This is the time your wife needs you. Don’t run out on her now.”
B. “This is hard for you. Let me try to help you coach her during this difficult phase.”
C. “I know this is hard for you. Why don’t you go have a cup of coffee and relax and come back
later if you feel like it?”
D. “If you feel that way, you’d bes go out and sit in the father’s waitingroom for a while because
you may transmit your anxiety to your wife.”
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: A. This statement is judgmental; this approach suggest that he will be failing his
wife. B. Both the father and the mother need additional support during the transitional stage of
labor. C. The husband should be present throughout labor to support his wife; he should be
assisted in this role. D. This does not encourage him to fulfill his role in supporting the mother
during labor.
6. In dealing with a couple identified as having an infertility problem, the nurse knows that:
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: A. Infertility may be psychogenic; however, statistics show that physiologic problems
are more often the cause. B. This is untrue; infertility may be corrected, but sterility is
irreversible. C. Infertility is the inability of a couple to conceive after at least 1 year of adequate
exposure to the possibility of pregnancy. D. This may or may not be true; it is possible that there
is a problem with both.
7. Which of the following assessment findings about the uterus would the nurse expect to find in
a primipara client 6 hours post delivery of an average-for-gestational-age infant?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: One hour after birth, the fundus rises to the level of the umbilicus, where it remains
for approximately 24 hours. It should be firm and in the middle. The fundus should be firm and
midline, but should not be 2 fingerbreadths below the umbilicus on the day of delivery. A fundus
that is to the right of the midline denotes urinary bladder distention. The fundus should be firm
to provide hemostasis. The fundus is up too far in the abdomen and is deviated to the right,
denoting a distended bladder.
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: A. This is a false assumption. B. This is a sterile procedure and should not
predispose the client to postoperative infection. C. Studies show that contraceptive counseling at
this time is most important, because the client may not return after the abortion. D. The client
must feel comfortable enough to verbalize her feelings of guilt; this helps to complete the
grieving process.
9. A couple in the fertility clinic have become very discouraged regarding their efforts to
conceive. The nurse can best support them by understanding that the most stressful aspect of the
process is:
A. Obtaining the necessary specimens
B. Visitng the fertility clinic frequently
C. Discovering which partner is infertile
D. Planning when intercourse should take place
Correct Answer: D Explanation: A. Obtaining and delivering the necessary specimens may be
inconvenient but should not be stressful. B. The number of office visits and examinations that are
required may be cumbersome but should not be stressful. C. The couple probably knows that one
of them has a fertility problem; it may be helpful knowing that the problem is so that measures
can be taken to correct it. D. A strategy for increasing the chances of conceiving requires the
couple to plan intercourse only while the woman is ovulating; this removes spontaneity and is
often stressful.
10. During the taking-hold phase, the nurse would expect the new mother to:
1. The nurse recognizes that an expected change in the hematologic system that occurs during the
second trimester of pregnancy is:
A. A decrease in WBCs
B. An icrease in blood volume
C. An increase in blood volume
D. A decrease in sedimanation rate
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: A. White blood cell values remain stable during the antepartum period. B. The
hematocrit decreases as a result of hemodilution. C. The blood volume increases by
approximately 50% during pregnancy. Peak blood volume occurs between 30 and 34 weeks of
gestation. D. The sedimentation rate increases because of a decrease in plasma proteins.
2. In the 12th week of gestation, a client completely expels the products of conception. Because
the client is Rh-negative, the nurse must:
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: A. It is given within 72 hours postpartum if the client has not been sensitized
previously. B. It would be useless at this time. C. RhoGAM is always indicated at the termination
of a pregnancy, even with fetal demise. D. RhoGAM is always indicated at the termination of a
pregnancy, even with a short-term pregnancy.
3. During prenatal development, fetal weight gain is greatest in the:
A. First Trimester
B. Third Trimester
C. Second Trimester
D. Implantation Period
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: A. The first trimester is the period of organogenesis, when cells differentiate into
major organ systems. B. This is the period in which the fetus sores deposits of fat fetal weight
gain is greatest. C. Growth is occurring, but fat deposition does not occur in this period. D. This
is the period of the blastocyst, when initial cell division takes place.
4. A client at 38 weeks’ gestation is admitted for induction of labor. She has a history of ruptured
membranes for the past 12 hours. She has no other symptoms of labor. The nurse is aware that if
the proper conditions exist, the physician will prescribe:
A. Progesterone
B. Oxytocin (Pitocin)
C. Lututrin (Lutrexin)
D. Ergonovine maleate
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Oxytocin is a small polypeptide hormone normally synthesized in the hypothalamus
and secreted from the neurohypophysis during parturition or suckling; the synthetic form
promotes powerful uterine (smooth muscle) contracitons and thus is used to induce labor.
Progesterone builds up the endometrium; it does not initiate uterine contractions. Lututrin no
drug by this name for this purpose. Ergonovine can lead to sustained contractions, which would
be undesirable labor.
5. A client, whose husband is overseas in the military, is admitted to the hospital with vaginal
staining but no pain. The client’s history reveals amenorrhea for the last 2 months and pregnancy
confirmation by her physician after her first missed period. She is admitted for observation with
a possible diagnosis of :
A.Missed abortion
B. Ectopic pregnancy
C. Inevitable abortion
D. Threatened abortion
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: A. This may not cause any outward symptoms, only the signs of pregnancy
disappearing. B. This is usually accompanied by severe pain radiating to the shoulder on the
affected side. C. This can be confirmed only if vaginal examination reveals cervical dilation. D.
Spotting in the firs trimester may indicate that the client may be having a threatened abortion;
any client with the possibility of hemorrhage should not be left alone; therefore admitting this
client for observation is safe medical practice; abortion is usually inevitable if accompanied by
pain and cervical dilation.
6. At about 5 cm dilation, a laboring client receives medication for pain. The nurse is aware that
one of the medications given to women in labor that could cause respiratory depression of the
newborn is:
A. Scopolamine
B. Promazine (Sparine)
C. Meperidine (Demerol)
D. Promethazine (Phenergan)
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Respiratory depression occurs with the use of meperidine (Demerol) and produces
significant depression of the infant at birth if circulating levels are high at time of birth.
Scopolamine induces amnesia and forgetfulness in the mother but does not cause respiratory
depression; this medication is not presently used. Prpmazine (Sparine), an anxiolytic, augments
the effects of demerol, thereby lessening the amount of drug needed. Promethazine (Phenergan),
an antihistamine, does not cause respiratory depression.
7. When caring for a client who is having a prolonged labor, the nurse must be aware that the
client is very concerned when her labor deviates from what she sees as the norm. A response
conveying acceptance of the client’s expressions of frustration and hostility would be:
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: A. This response provides the client with a comfort measure while giving her an
opportunity to get verbalize her fears about having a prolonged labor. B. This closes off
communication with the client. C. This is of no help to the client; she is concerned with what is
happening to her. D. This can be answered “yes” or “no” and leaves no further avenue for
discussion.
8. A pregnant woman is at term is admitted to the birthing unit in active labor. The client is
excited about the anticipated birth because has three sons and the amniocentesis indicates that
she will have a girl. The nurse recognizes that there are implications for newborn observations
and care when the nursing history reveals that:
9. A 16-year-old comes to the prenatal clinic because she has missed three menstrual periods.
Before her physical examination, the client says. “I don’t know what the problem is, but I can’t
be pregnant.” The nurse’s most therapeutic response to this statement would be:
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: A. This response would close off any future communication with the client. B. This
response points out reality and allow the client to elaborate.C. This may be true statement, but it
does not allow for much discussion to follow. D. This response sounds rather critical or
judgmental and would probably cut off further discussion with the client.
10. After an 8-hour, uneventful labor a client gives birth to a baby boy spontaneously under
epidural block anesthesia. As the nurse places the baby in the mother’s arms immediately after
the birth, the mother asks, “is he normal?” The most appropriate response by the nurse would be:
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: A. This is false reassurance; this comment closes off communication with the mother
at a very opportune moment. B. Crying is not indicative of congenital defects; a strong cry does
not ensure “normalcy”. C. The “normalcy” of the mother’s pregnancy and labor does not
always have a relationship to the “normalcy” of the infant. D. Mothers need to explore their
infants visually and through touch to assure themselves that the infants are normal in all
respects.