NCLEX Perioperative Nursing Questions
Question 1 of 5.
A woman who is to have surgery tomorrow denies any fears or worries about the upcoming surgery. However, she talks incessantly about trivial matters and is constantly rearranging the items on her bedside stand. What is the most appropriate action for the nurse to take?
A. Listen to her trivial talk.
B. During preoperative teaching, encourage her to ask questions and express concerns.
C. Assume that she is well prepared for surgery and discuss it very little.
D. Probe deeply to find out what is bothering her.
Explanation: Her behavior suggests anxiety; encouraging questions and expression of concerns during teaching opens communication, helping address underlying fears.
Question 2 of 5.
The nurse is caring for a client who has just been admitted to the postanesthesia care unit. The client vomits. The nurse knows that the primary problem that can occur as a result of vomiting in the immediate postoperative period is which of the following?
A. Electrolyte imbalance
B. Dehiscence
C. Aspiration
D. Wound contamination
Explanation: Vomiting in the immediate postoperative period risks aspiration, especially if the client is not fully alert, as it can lead to airway obstruction or pneumonia.
Question 3 of 5.
The nurse is planning care for a woman who had an abdominal hysterectomy and bilateral salpingectomy and oophorectomy. The nurse knows that because of the location of her surgery, the client is at risk for the development of:
A. thrombophlebitis.
B. pneumonia.
C. stress ulcers.
D. wound infection.
Explanation: Pelvic and abdominal surgery increases the risk of thrombophlebitis due to prolonged immobility and venous stasis.
Question 4 of 5.
The nurse requests the client to sign a surgical informed consent form for an emergency appendectomy. Which statement by the client indicates further teaching is needed?
A. I will be glad when this is over so I can go home today.
B. I will not be able to eat or drink anything prior to my surgery.
C. I can practice relaxing by listening to my favorite music.
D. I will need to get up and walk as soon as possible.
Explanation: Emergency appendectomy requires postoperative recovery, typically 1-2 days in hospital, so expecting to go home today indicates misunderstanding. NPO status, relaxation, and early ambulation are correct.
Question 5 of 5.
The nurse is interviewing a surgical client in the holding area. Which information should the nurse report to the anesthesiologist? Select all that apply.
A. The client has loose, decayed teeth.
B. The client is experiencing anxiety.
C. The client smokes two (2) packs of cigarettes a day.
D. The client has had a chest x-ray which does not show infiltrates.
E. The client reports using herbs.
Explanation: Loose teeth risk airway obstruction, smoking affects respiratory function and anesthesia, and herbs (e.g., ginseng) may interact with anesthesia, requiring anesthesiologist notification. Anxiety is common, and clear x-rays are reassuring.