RN NCLEX Practice Test
Question 1 of 5.
The nurse discovers that a 78-year-old client who received hydralazine (Apresoline) 20 mg 45 minutes ago has a blood pressure of 70/40 mm Hg. The client has been on this dose of the medication for 3 years. Which of the following data is most likely significant in relation to the cause of the low blood pressure?
A. Pedal pulses 11 (weak)
B. Twenty-four-hour intake 1000 mL/day for past 2 days
C. Serum potassium 3.3
D. Pulse rate 150 bpm
Explanation: (A, D) Decreased pulse volume and increased pulse rate are signs of an acute hypotensive episode. Inadequate fluid volume when taking vasodilators can result in a drop in blood pressure when vasodilation starts to physiologically occur as an action of the drug. A potassium level of 3.3 would not be associated with a significant drop in blood pressure.
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.