RN NCLEX Practice Test
Question 1 of 5.
A female client is seeking counseling for personal problems. She admits to being very unhappy lately at both home and work. During the nursing assessment, she uses many defense mechanisms. Which statement or action made by the client is an example of adaptive suppression?
A. I did not get the raise because my boss does not like me.'
B. I felt a lump in my breast 2 weeks ago. I put off getting it checked until after my sister's wedding.'
C. My son died 3 years ago. I still cannot bring myself to clean out his room.'
D. My husband told me this morning that he wants a divorce. I am upset, but I cannot discuss the matter with him until after my company's board meeting today.'
Explanation: This statement is an example of adaptive rationalization. She is coping with her disappointment by rationalizing. This is adaptive because no harm is done to self or others. It is used to protect her ego. This is an example of maladaptive suppression. She is suppressing the seriousness of the lump. It is maladaptive because delaying treatment will cause harm to her. The client's actions are an example of maladaptive denial. She is denying her son's death by not facing his possessions. Until she faces his death, she cannot face reality. This is an example of adaptive suppression. She realizes the impact of her husband's statement but delays discussion until she can devote her full attention to the matter.
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.