RN NCLEX Practice Test
Question 1 of 5.
A client is placed in five-point restraints after exhibiting sudden violence after illegal drug use, and haloperidol (Haldol) 5 mg IM is administered. After 1 hour, his behavior is more subdued, but he tells the nurse, 'The devil followed me into this room, I see him standing in the corner with a big knife. When you leave the room, he's going to cut out my heart.' The nurse's best response is:
A. I know you're feeling frightened right now, but I want you to know that I don't see anyone in the corner.'
B. You'll probably see strange things for a while until the PCP wears off.'
C. Try to sleep. When you wake up, the devil will be gone.'
D. You're probably feeling guilty because you used illegal drugs tonight.'
Explanation: The nurse is the client's link to reality. This response validates the authenticity of the client's experience by casting doubt on his belief and reinforcing reality.
Question 2 of 5.
The nurse is observing the ambulation of a client recently fitted for crutches. Which observation requires nursing intervention?
A. Two finger widths are noted between the axilla and the top of the crutch.
B. The client bears weight on his hands when ambulating.
C. The crutches and the client's feet move alternately.
D. The client bears weight on his axilla when standing.
Explanation: Bearing weight on the axilla can cause nerve damage (e.g., brachial plexus injury); crutches should support weight on the hands.
Question 3 of 5.
A client with angina is being discharged with a prescription for Transderm Nitro (nitroglycerin) patches. The nurse should tell the client to:
A. Shave the area before applying the patch
B. Remove the old patch and clean the skin with alcohol
C. Cover the patch with plastic wrap and tape it in place
D. Avoid cutting the patch because it will alter the dose
Explanation: Cutting a nitroglycerin patch can alter the dose by disrupting the drug delivery system, so clients should be instructed to avoid this.
Question 4 of 5.
A patient refuses to take his dose of oral medication. The nurse tells the patient that if he does not take the medication that she will administer it by injection. The nurse's comments can result in a charge of:
A. Malpractice
B. Assault
C. Negligence
D. Battery
Explanation: Threatening to administer medication by injection against the patient's will constitutes assault, as it involves a threat of unwanted contact.
Question 5 of 5.
An 18-month-old is admitted to the hospital with acute laryngotracheobronchitis. When assessing the respiratory status, the nurse should expect to find:
A. Inspiratory stridor and harsh cough
B. Strident cough and drooling
C. Wheezing and intercostal retractions
D. Expiratory wheezing and nonproductive cough
Explanation: Acute laryngotracheobronchitis (croup) typically presents with inspiratory stridor and a harsh, barking cough due to subglottic airway inflammation.