NCLEX-PN Test Prep: Questions and Answers with Explanations V3 Practice Exam, Exams of Nursing

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NCLEX-PN TEST PREP

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NCLEX PN V

NCLEX-PN Test Prep

Questions and Answers with Explanations

V3 PRACTICE EXAM

1. A client hospitalized with severe depression and suicidal ideation refuses to talk with the nurse. The nurse recognizes that the suicidal client has difficulty: A. Expressing feelings of low self-worth B. Discussing remorse and guilt for actions C. Displaying dependence on others D. Expressing anger toward others Answer D: The suicidal client has difficulty expressing anger toward others. The depressed suicidal client frequently expresses feelings of low self-worth, feelings of remorse and guilt, and a dependence on others; therefore, answers A, B, and C are incorrect.
2. A client receiving HydroDIURIL (hydrochlorothiazide) is instructed to increase her dietary intake of potassium. The best snack for the client requiring increased potassium is: A. Pear B. Apple C. Orange D. Banana Answer D: Answers A, B, and C are incorrect because they contain lower amounts of potassium. (Note that the banana contains 450mg K+, the orange contains 235mg K+, the pear contains 208mg K+, and the apple contains 165mg K+.)
3. The nurse is caring for a client following removal of the thyroid. Immediately post-op, the nurse should: A. Maintain the client in a semi-Fowler’s position with the head and neck supported by pillows B. Encourage the client to turn her head side to side, to promote drainage of oral secretions C. Maintain the client in a supine position with sandbags placed on either

side of the head and neck D. Encourage the client to cough and breathe deeply every 2 hours, with the neck in a flexed position Answer A: Following a thyroidectomy, the client should be placed in semiFowler’s position to decrease swelling that would place pressure on the airway. Answers B, C, and D are incorrect because they would increase the chances of post-operative complications that include bleeding, swelling, and airway obstruction.

4. A client hospitalized with chronic dyspepsia is diagnosed with gastric cancer. Which of the following is associated with an increased incidence of gastric cancer? A. Dairy products B. Carbonated beverages C. Refined sugars D. Luncheon meats Answer D: Luncheon meats contain preservatives such as nitrites that have been linked to gastric cancer. Answers A, B, and C have not been found to increase the risk of gastric cancer; therefore, they are incorrect.
5. A client is sent to the psychiatric unit for forensic evaluation after he is accused of arson. His tentative diagnosis is antisocial personality disorder. In reviewing the client’s record, the nurse could expect to find: A. A history of consistent employment B. A below-average intelligence C. A history of cruelty to animals D. An expression of remorse for his actions Answer C: A history of cruelty to people and animals, truancy, setting fires, and lack of guilt or remorse are associated with a diagnosis of conduct disorder in children, which becomes a diagnosis of antisocial personality disorder in adults. Answer A is incorrect because the client with antisocial personality disorder does not hold consistent employment. Answer B is incorrect because the IQ is usually higher than average. Answer D is incorrect because of a lack of guilt or remorse for wrong-doing.

6. The licensed vocational nurse may not assume the primary care for a client: A. In the fourth stage of labor B. Two days post-appendectomy C. With a venous access device D. With bipolar disorder Answer C: The licensed vocational nurse may not assume primary care of the client with a central venous access device. The licensed vocational nurse may care for the client in labor, the client post-operative client, and the client with bipolar disorder; therefore, answers A, B, and D are incorrect.
7. The physician has ordered dressings with mafenide acetate (Sulfamylon) cream for a client with full-thickness burns of the hands and arms. Before dressing changes, the nurse should give priority to: A. Administering pain medication B. Checking the adequacy of urinary output C. Requesting a daily complete blood count D. Obtaining a blood glucose by finger stick Answer A: Sulfamylon (mafenide acetate) produces a painful sensation when applied to the burn wound; therefore, the client should receive pain medication before dressing changes. Answers B, C, and D do not pertain to dressing changes for the client with burns, so they are incorrect.
8. The nurse is teaching a group of parents about gross motor development of the toddler. Which behavior is an example of the normal gross motor skill of a toddler? A. She can pull a toy behind her. B. She can copy a horizontal line. C. She can build a tower of eight blocks. D. She can broad-jump. Answer A: According to the Denver Developmental Screening Test, the child can pull a toy behind her by age 2 years. Answers B, C, and D are not accomplished until ages 4–5 years; therefore, they are incorrect.

9. A client hospitalized with a fractured mandible is to be discharged. Which piece of equipment should be kept on the client with a fractured mandible? A. Wire cutters B. Oral airway C. Pliers D. Tracheostomy set Answer A: The client with a fractured mandible should keep a pair of wire cutters with him at all times to release the device in case of choking or aspiration. Answer B is incorrect because the wires would prevent insertion of an oral airway. Answer C is incorrect because it would be of no use in releasing the wires. Answer D is incorrect because it would be used only as a last resort in case of airway obstruction.
10. The nurse is to administer digoxin (Lanoxin) elixir to a 6-month-old with a congenital heart defect. The nurse auscultates an apical pulse rate of 100. The nurse should: A. Record the heart rate and call the physician B. Record the heart rate and administer the medication C. Administer the medication and recheck the heart rate in 15 minutes D. Hold the medication and recheck the heart rate in 30 minutes Answer B: The infant’s apical heart rate is within the accepted range for administering the medication. Answers A, C, and D are incorrect because the apical heart rate is suitable for giving the medication.
11. A mother of a 3-year-old hospitalized with lead poisoning asks the nurse to explain the treatment for her daughter. The nurse’s explanation is based on the knowledge that lead poisoning is treated with: A. Gastric lavage B. Chelating agents C. Antiemetics D. Activated charcoal Answer B: Chelating agents are used to treat the client with poisonings from heavy metals such as lead and iron. Answers A and D are used to remove

noncorrosive poisons; therefore, they are incorrect. Answer C prevents vomiting; therefore, it is an incorrect response.

12. An 18-month-old is scheduled for a cleft palate repair. The usual type of restraints for the child with a cleft palate repair are: A. Elbow restraints B. Full arm restraints C. Wrist restraints D. Mummy restraints Answer A: The least restrictive restraint for the infant with cleft lip and cleft palate repair is elbow restraints. Answers B, C, and D are more restrictive and unnecessary; therefore, they are incorrect.
13. A client with glaucoma has been prescribed Timoptic (timolol) eyedrops. Timoptic should be used with caution in the client with a history of: A. Diabetes B. Gastric ulcers C. Emphysema D. Pancreatitis Answer C: Beta blockers such as timolol (Timoptic) can cause bronchospasms in the client with chronic obstructive lung disease. Timoptic is not contraindicated for use in clients with diabetes, gastric ulcers, or pancreatitis; therefore, answers A, B, and C are incorrect.
14. An elderly client who experiences nighttime confusion wanders from his room into the room of another client. The nurse can best help decrease the client’s confusion by: A. Assigning a nursing assistant to sit with him until he falls asleep B. Allowing the client to room with another elderly client C. Administering a bedtime sedative D. Leaving a nightlight on during the evening and night shifts Answer D: Leaving a nightlight on during the evening and night shifts helps the client remain oriented to the environment and fosters independence.

Answers A and B will not decrease the client’s confusion. Answer C will increase the likelihood of confusion in an elderly client.

15. Which of the following is a common complaint of the client with endstage renal failure? A. Weight loss B. Itching C. Ringing in the ears D. Bruising Answer B: Pruritis or itching is caused by the presence of uric acid crystals on the skin, which is common in the client with end-stage renal failure. Answers A, C, and D are not associated with end-stage renal failure.
16. Which of the following medication orders needs further clarification? A. Darvocet (propoxyphene) 65mg PO every 4–6 hrs. PRN B. Mysoline (primidone) 250mg PO TID C. Coumadin (warfarin sodium) 10mg PO D. Premarin (conjugated estrogen) .625mg PO daily Answer C: There is no specified time or frequency for the ordered medication. Answers A, B, and D contain specified time and frequency, therefore they do not require further clarification.
17. The best diet for the client with Meniere’s syndrome is one that is: A. High in fiber B. Low in sodium C. High in iodine D. Low in fiber Answer B: A low-sodium diet is best for the client with Meniere’s syndrome. Answers A, C, and D do not relate to the care of the client with Meniere’s syndrome; therefore, they are incorrect.
18. Which of the following findings is associated with right-sided heart failure? A. Shortness of breath

B. Nocturnal polyuria C. Daytime oliguria D. Crackles in the lungs Answer B: Increased voiding at night is a symptom of right-sided heart failure. Answers A and D are incorrect because they are symptoms of leftsided heart failure. Answer C does not relate to the client’s diagnosis; therefore, it is incorrect.

19. An 8-year-old admitted with an upper-respiratory infection has an order for O2 saturation via pulse oximeter. To ensure an accurate reading, the nurse should: A. Place the probe on the child’s abdomen B. Recalibrate the oximeter at the beginning of each shift C. Apply the probe and wait 15 minutes before obtaining a reading D. Place the probe on the child’s finger Answer D: The pulse oximeter should be placed on the child’s finger or earlobe because blood flow to these areas is most accessible for measuring oxygen concentration. Answer A is incorrect because the probe cannot be secured to the abdomen. Answer B is incorrect because it should be recalibrated before application. Answer C is incorrect because a reading is obtained within seconds, not minutes.
20. An infant with Tetralogy of Fallot is discharged with a prescription for lanoxin elixir. The nurse should instruct the mother to: A. Administer the medication using a nipple B. Administer the medication using the calibrated dropper in the bottle C. Administer the medication using a plastic baby spoon D. Administer the medication in a baby bottle with 1oz. of water Answer B: The medication should be administered using the calibrated dropper that comes with the medication. Answers A and C are incorrect because part or all of the medication could be lost during administration. Answer D is incorrect because part or all of the medication will be lost if the child does not finish the bottle.

21. The client scheduled for electroconvulsive therapy tells the nurse, “I’m so afraid. What will happen to me during the treatment?” Which of the following statements is most therapeutic for the nurse to make? A. “You will be given medicine to relax you during the treatment.” B. “The treatment will produce a controlled grand mal seizure.” C. “The treatment might produce nausea and headache.” D. “You can expect to be sleepy and confused for a time after the treatment.” Answer A: The client will receive medication that relaxes skeletal muscles and produces mild sedation. Answers B and D are incorrect because such statements increase the client’s anxiety level. Nausea and headache are not associated with ECT; therefore, answer C is incorrect.
22. Which of the following skin lesions is associated with Lyme’s disease? A. Bull’s eye rash B. Papular crusts C. Bullae D. Plaques Answer A: Lyme’s disease produces a characteristic annular or circular rash sometimes described as a “bull’s eye” rash. Answers B, C, and D are incorrect because they are not symptoms associated with Lyme’s disease.
23. Which of the following snacks would be suitable for the child with gluten-induced enteropathy? A. Soft oatmeal cookie B. Buttered popcorn C. Peanut butter and jelly sandwich D. Cheese pizza Answer B: The client with gluten-induced enteropathy experiences symptoms after ingesting foods containing wheat, oats, barley, or rye. Corn or millet are substituted in the diet. Answers A, C, and D are incorrect because they contain foods that worsen the client’s condition.
24. A client with schizophrenia is receiving chlorpromazine (Thorazine) 400mg twice a day. An adverse side effect of the medication is:

A. Photosensitivity B. Elevated temperature C. Weight gain D. Elevated blood pressure Answer B: Neuroleptic malignant syndrome is an adverse reaction that is characterized by extreme elevations in temperature. Answers A and C are incorrect because they are expected side effects. Elevations in blood pressure are associated with reactions between foods containing tyramine and MAOI; therefore, answer D is incorrect.

25. Which information should be given to the client taking phenytoin (Dilantin)? A. Taking the medication with meals will increase its effectiveness. B. The medication can cause sleep disturbances. C. More frequent dental appointments will be needed for special gum care. D. The medication decreases the effects of oral contraceptives. Answer C: Gingival hyperplasia is a side effect of phenytoin. The client will need more frequent dental visits. Answers A, B, and D do not apply to the medication; therefore, they are incorrect.
26. A client has returned to his room following an esophagoscopy. Before offering fluids, the nurse should give priority to assessing the client’s: A. Level of consciousness B. Gag reflex C. Urinary output D. Movement of extremities Answer B: The client’s gag reflex is depressed before having an EGD. The nurse should give priority to checking for the return of the gag reflex before offering the client oral fluids. Answer A is incorrect because conscious sedation is used. Answers C and D are not affected by the procedure; therefore, they are incorrect.
27. Which instruction should be included in the discharge teaching for the client with cataract surgery?

A. Over-the-counter eyedrops can be used to treat redness and irritation. B. The eye shield should be worn at night. C. It will be necessary to wear special cataract glasses. D. A prescription for medication to control post-operative pain will be needed. Answer B: The eye shield should be worn at night or when napping, to prevent accidental trauma to the operative eye. Prescription eyedrops, not over-the-counter eyedrops, are ordered for the client; therefore, Answer A is incorrect. The client might or might not require glasses following cataract surgery; therefore, answer C is incorrect. Answer D is incorrect because cataract surgery is pain free.

28. An 8-year-old is admitted with drooling, muffled phonation, and a temperature of 102°F. The nurse should immediately notify the doctor because the child’s symptoms are suggestive of: A. Strep throat B. Epiglottitis C. Laryngotracheobronchitis D. Bronchiolitis Answer B: The child’s symptoms are consistent with those of epiglottitis, an infection of the upper airway that can result in total airway obstruction. Symptoms of strep throat, laryngotracheobronchitis, and bronchiolitis are different than those presented by the client; therefore, answers A, C, and D are incorrect.
29. Phototherapy is ordered for a newborn with physiologic jaundice. The nurse caring for the infant should: A. Offer the baby sterile water between feedings of formula B. Apply an emollient to the baby’s skin to prevent drying C. Wear a gown, gloves, and a mask while caring for the infant D. Place the baby on enteric isolation Answer A: Providing additional fluids will help the newborn eliminate excess bilirubin in the stool and urine. Answer B is incorrect because oils and

lotions should not be used with phototherapy. Physiologic jaundice is not associated with infection; therefore, answers C and D are incorrect.

30. A teen hospitalized with anorexia nervosa is now permitted to leave her room and eat in the dining room. Which of the following nursing interventions should be included in the client’s plan of care? A. Weighing the client after she eats B. Having a staff member remain with her for 1 hour after she eats C. Placing high-protein foods in the center of the client’s plate D. Providing the client with child-size utensils Answer B: Having a staff member remain with the client for 1 hour after meals will help prevent self-induced vomiting. Answer A is incorrect because the client will weigh more after meals, which can undermine treatment. Answer C is incorrect because the client will need a balanced diet and excess protein might not be well tolerated at first. Answer D is incorrect because it treats the client as a child rather than as an adult.
31. According to Erickson’s stage of growth and development, the developmental task associated with middle childhood is: A. Trust B. Initiative C. Independence D. Industry Answer D: According to Erikson’s Psychosocial Developmental Theory, the developmental task of middle childhood is industry versus inferiority. Answer A is incorrect because it is the developmental task of infancy. Answer B is incorrect because it is the developmental task of the school-age child. Answer C is incorrect because it is not one of Erikson’s developmental stages.
32. The nurse should observe for side effects associated with the use of bronchodilators. A common side effect of bronchodilators is: A. Tinnitus B. Nausea

C. Ataxia D. Hypotension Answer B: A side effect of bronchodilators is nausea. Answers A and C are not associated with bronchodilators; therefore, they are incorrect. Answer D is incorrect because hypotension is a sign of toxicity, not a side effect.

33. The 5-minute Apgar of a baby delivered by C-section is recorded as 9. The most likely reason for this score is: A. The mottled appearance of the trunk B. The presence of conjunctival hemorrhages C. Cyanosis of the hands and feet D. Respiratory rate of 20–28 per minute Answer C: Although cyanosis of the hands and feet is common in the newborn, it accounts for an Apgar score of less than 10. Answer B suggests cooling, which is not scored by the Apgar. Answer B is incorrect because conjunctival hemorrhages are not associated with the Apgar. Answer D is incorrect because it is within normal range as measured by the Apgar.
34. A 5-month-old infant is admitted to the ER with a temperature of 103.6°F and irritability. The mother states that the child has been listless for the past several hours and that he had a seizure on the way to the hospital. A lumbar puncture confirms a diagnosis of bacterial meningitis. The nurse should assess the infant for: A. Periorbital edema B. Tenseness of the anterior fontanel C. Positive Babinski reflex D. Negative scarf sign Answer B: Tenseness of the anterior fontanel indicates an increase in intracranial pressure. Answer A is incorrect because periorbital edema is not associated with meningitis. Answer C is incorrect because a positive Babinski reflex is normal in the infant. Answer D is incorrect because it relates to the preterm infant, not the infant with meningitis.
35. A client with a bowel resection and anastamosis returns to his room with

an NG tube attached to intermittent suction. Which of the following observations indicates that the nasogastric suction is working properly? A. The client’s abdomen is soft. B. The client is able to swallow. C. The client has active bowel sounds. D. The client’s abdominal dressing is dry and intact. Answer A: Nasogastric suction decompresses the stomach and leaves the abdomen soft and nondistended. Answer B is incorrect because it does not relate to the effectiveness of the NG suction. Answer C is incorrect because it relates to peristalsis, not the effectiveness of the NG suction. Answer D is incorrect because it relates to wound healing, not the effectiveness of the NG suction.

36. The nurse is teaching the client with insulin-dependent diabetes the signs of hypoglycemia. Which of the following signs is associated with hypoglycemia? A. Tremulousness B. Slow pulse C. Nausea D. Flushed skin Answer A: Tremulousness is an early sign of hypoglycemia. Answers B, C, and D are incorrect because they are symptoms of hyperglycemia.
37. Which of the following symptoms is associated with exacerbation of multiple sclerosis? A. Anorexia B. Seizures C. Diplopia D. Insomnia Answer C: The most common sign associated with exacerbation of multiple sclerosis is double vision. Answers A, B, and D are not associated with a diagnosis of multiple sclerosis; therefore, they are incorrect.
38. Which of the following conditions is most likely related to the

development of renal calculi? A. Gout B. Pancreatitis C. Fractured femur D. Disc disease Answer A: Gout and renal calculi are the result of increased amounts of uric acid. Answer B is incorrect because it does not contribute to renal calculi. Answers C and D can result from decreased calcium levels. Renal calculi are the result of excess calcium; therefore, answers C and D are incorrect.

39. A client with AIDS is admitted for treatment of wasting syndrome. Which of the following dietary modifications can be used to compensate for the limited absorptive capability of the intestinal tract? A. Thoroughly cooking all foods B. Offering yogurt and buttermilk between meals C. Forcing fluids D. Providing small, frequent meals Answer D: Providing small, frequent meals will improve the client’s appetite and help reduce nausea. Answer A is incorrect because it does not compensate for limited absorption. Foods and beverages containing live cultures are discouraged for the immune-compromised client; therefore, answer B is incorrect. Answer C is incorrect because forcing fluids will not compensate for limited absorption of the intestine.
40. The treatment protocol for a client with acute lymphocytic leukemia includes prednisone, methotrexate, and cimetadine. The purpose of the cimetadine is to: A. Decrease the secretion of pancreatic enzymes B. Enhance the effectiveness of methotrexate C. Promote peristalsis D. Prevent a common side effect of prednisone Answer D: A common side effect of prednisone is gastric ulcers. Cimetadine is given to help prevent the development of ulcers. Answers A, B, and C do not relate to the use of cimetadine; therefore, they are incorrect.

41. Which of the following meal choices is suitable for a 6-month-old infant? A. Egg white, formula, and orange juice B. Apple juice, carrots, whole milk C. Rice cereal, apple juice, formula D. Melba toast, egg yolk, whole milk Answer C: Rice cereal, apple juice, and formula are suitable foods for the 6- month-old infant. Whole milk, orange juice, and eggs are not suitable for the young infant; therefore, they are incorrect.
42. The LPN is preparing to administer an injection of vitamin K to the newborn. The nurse should administer the injection in the: A. Rectus femoris muscle B. Vastus lateralis muscle C. Deltoid muscle D. Dorsogluteal muscle Answer B: The nurse should administer the injection in the vastus lateralis muscle. Answers A and C are not as well developed in the newborn; therefore, they are incorrect. Answer D is incorrect because the dorsogluteal muscle is not used for IM injections until the child is 3 years of age.
43. The physician has prescribed Cytoxan (cyclophosphamide) for a client with nephotic syndrome. The nurse should: A. Encourage the client to drink extra fluids B. Request a low-protein diet for the client C. Bathe the client using only mild soap and water D. Provide additional warmth for swollen, inflamed joints Answer A: The client taking Cytoxan should increase his fluid intake to prevent hemorrhagic cystitis. Answers B, C, and D do not relate to the question; therefore, they are incorrect.
44. The nurse is caring for a client with detoxification from alcohol. Which medication is used in the treatment of alcohol withdrawal? A. Antabuse (disulfiram)

B. Romazicon (flumazenil) C. Dolophine (methodone) D. Ativan (lorazepam) Answer D: Benzodiazepines are ordered for the client in alcohol withdrawal to prevent delirium tremens. Answer A is incorrect because it is a medication used in aversive therapy to maintain sobriety. Answer B is incorrect because it is used for the treatment of benzodiazepine overdose. Answer C is incorrect because it is the treatment for opiate withdrawal.

45. A client with insulin-dependent diabetes takes 20 units of NPH insulin at 7 a.m. The nurse should observe the client for signs of hypoglycemia at: A. 8 a.m. B. 10 a.m. C. 3 p.m. D. 5 a.m. Answer C: The client taking NPH insulin should have a snack midafternoon to prevent hypoglycemia. Answers A and B are incorrect because the times are too early for symptoms of hypoglycemia. Answer D is incorrect because the time is too late and the client would be in severe hypoglycemia.
46. The licensed practical nurse is assisting the charge nurse in planning care for a client with a detached retina. Which of the following nursing diagnoses should receive priority? A. Alteration in comfort B. Alteration in mobility C. Alteration in skin integrity D. Alteration in O2 perfusion Answer B: The client with a detached retina will have limitations in mobility before and after surgery. Answer A is incorrect because a detached retina produces no pain or discomfort. Answers C and D do not apply to the client with a detached retina; therefore, they are incorrect.
47. The primary purpose for using a CPM machine for the client with a total knee repair is to help:

A. Prevent contractures B. Promote flexion of the artificial joint C. Decrease the pain associated with early ambulation D. Alleviate lactic acid production in the leg muscles Answer B: The primary purpose for the continuous passive-motion machine is to promote flexion of the artificial joint. The device should be placed at the foot of the client’s bed. Answers A, C, and D do not describe the purpose of the CPM machine; therefore, they are incorrect.

48. Which of the following statements reflects Kohlberg’s theory of the moral development of the preschool-age child? A. Obeying adults is seen as correct behavior. B. Showing respect for parents is seen as important. C. Pleasing others is viewed as good behavior. D. Behavior is determined by consequences. Answer D: According to Kohlberg, in the preconventional stage of development, the behavior of the preschool child is determined by the consequences of the behavior. Answers A, B, and C describe other stages of moral development; therefore, they are incorrect.
49. A toddler with otitis media has just completed antibiotic therapy. A recheck appointment should be made to: A. Determine whether the ear infection has affected her hearing B. Make sure that she has taken all the antibiotic C. Document that the infection has completely cleared D. Obtain a new prescription in case the infection recurs Answer C: The client should be assessed following completion of antibiotic therapy to determine whether the infection has cleared. Answer A would be done if there are repeated instances of otitis media; therefore, it is incorrect. Answer B is incorrect because it will not determine whether the child has taken the medication. Answer D is incorrect because the purpose of the recheck is to determine whether the infection is gone.
50. A factory worker is brought to the nurse’s office after a metal fragment

enters his right eye. The nurse should: A. Cover the right eye with a sterile 4× B. Attempt to remove the metal with a cotton-tipped applicator C. Flush the eye for 10 minutes with running water D. Cover both eyes and transport the client to the ER Answer D: The nurse should cover both of the client’s eyes and transport him immediately to the ER or the doctor’s office. Answers A, B, and D are incorrect because they increase the risk of further damage to the eye.

51. The nurse is caring for a client with systemic lupus erythematosis (SLE). The major complication associated with systemic lupus erythematosis is: A. Nephritis B. Cardiomegaly C. Desquamation D. Meningitis Answer A: The major complication of SLE is lupus nephritis, which results in end-stage renal disease. SLE affects the musculoskeletal, integumentary, renal, nervous, and cardiovascular systems, but the major complication is renal involvement; therefore, answers B and D are incorrect. Answer C is incorrect because the SLE produces a “butterfly” rash, not desquamation.
52. Which diet is associated with an increased risk of colorectal cancer? A. Low protein, complex carbohydrates B. High protein, simple carbohydrates C. High fat, refined carbohydrates D. Low carbohydrates, complex proteins Answer C: A diet that is high in fat and refined carbohydrates increases the risk of colorectal cancer. High fat content results in an increase in fecal bile acids, which facilitate carcinogenic changes. Refined carbohydrates increase the transit time of food through the gastrointestinal tract and increase the exposure time of the intestinal mucosa to cancer-causing substances. Answers A, B, and D do not relate to the question; therefore, they are incorrect.

53. The nurse is caring for an infant following a cleft lip repair. While comforting the infant, the nurse should avoid: A. Holding the infant B. Offering a pacifier C. Providing a mobile D. Offering sterile water Answer B: The nurse should avoid giving the infant a pacifier or bottle because sucking is not permitted. Holding the infant cradled in the arms, providing a mobile, and offering sterile water using a Breck feeder are permitted; therefore, answers A, C, and D are incorrect.
54. The physician has ordered Amoxil (amoxicillin) 500mg capsules for a client with esophageal varices. The nurse can best care for the client’s needs by: A. Giving the medication as ordered B. Providing extra water with the medication C. Giving the medication with an antacid D. Requesting an alternate form of the medication Answer D: The client with esophageal varices can develop spontaneous bleeding from the mechanical irritation caused by taking capsules; therefore, the nurse should request the medication in a suspension. Answer A is incorrect because it does not best meet the client’s needs. Answer B is incorrect because it is not the best means of preventing bleeding. Answer C is incorrect because the medications should not be given with milk or antacids.
55. The nurse is providing dietary instructions for a client with irondeficiency anemia. Which food is a poor source of iron? A. Tomatoes B. Legumes C. Dried fruits D. Nuts Answer A: Tomatoes are a poor source of iron, although they are an

excellent source of vitamin C, which increases iron absorption. Answers B, C, and D are good sources of iron; therefore, they are incorrect.

56. The nurse is teaching a client with Parkinson’s disease ways to prevent curvatures of the spine associated with the disease. To prevent spinal flexion, the nurse should tell the client to: A. Periodically lie prone without a neck pillow B. Sleep only in dorsal recumbent position C. Rest in supine position with his head elevated D. Sleep on either side but keep his back straight Answer A: Periodically lying in a prone position without a pillow will help prevent the flexion of the spine that occurs with Parkinson’s disease. Answers B and C flex the spine; therefore, they are incorrect. Answer D is not realistic because of position changes during sleep; therefore, it is incorrect.
57. The nurse is planning dietary changes for a client following an episode of pancreatitis. Which diet is suitable for the client? A. Low calorie, low carbohydrate B. High calorie, low fat C. High protein, high fat D. Low protein, high carbohydrate Answer B: The client recovering from pancreatitis needs a diet that is high in calories and low in fat. Answers A, C, and D are incorrect because they can increase the client’s discomfort.
58. A client with hypothyroidism frequently complains of feeling cold. The nurse should tell the client that she will be more comfortable if she: A. Uses an electric blanket at night B. Dresses in extra layers of clothing C. Applies a heating pad to her feet D. Takes a hot bath morning and evening Answer B: Dressing in layers and using extra covering will help decrease the feeling of being cold that is experienced by the client with hypothyroidism.

Decreased sensation and decreased alertness are common in the client with hypothyroidism; therefore, the use of electric blankets and heating pads can result in burns, making answers A and C incorrect. Answer D is incorrect because the client with hypothyroidism has dry skin, and a hot bath morning and evening would make her condition worse.

59. A client has been hospitalized with a diagnosis of laryngeal cancer. Which factor is most significant in the development of laryngeal cancer? A. A family history of laryngeal cancer B. Chronic inhalation of noxious fumes C. Frequent straining of the vocal cords D. A history of alcohol and tobacco use Answer D: A history of frequent alcohol and tobacco use is the most significant factor in the development of cancer of the larynx. Answers A, B, and C are also factors in the development of laryngeal cancer, but they are not the most significant; therefore, they are incorrect.
60. The nurse is completing an assessment history of a client with pernicious anemia. Which complaint differentiates pernicious anemia from other types of anemia? A. Difficulty in breathing after exertion B. Numbness and tingling in the extremities C. A faster-than-usual heart rate D. Feelings of lightheadedness Answer B: Numbness and tingling in the extremities is common in the client with pernicious anemia, but not those with other types of anemia. Answers A, C, and D are incorrect because they are symptoms of all types of anemia.
61. The chart of a client with schizophrenia states that the client has echolalia. The nurse can expect the client to: A. Speak using words that rhyme B. Repeat words or phrases used by others C. Include irrelevant details in conversation D. Make up new words with new meanings

Answer B: The client with echolalia repeats words or phrases used by others. Answer A is incorrect because it refers to clang association. Answer C is incorrect because it refers to circumstantiality. Answer D is incorrect because it refers to neologisms.

62. Which early morning activity helps to reduce the symptoms associated with rheumatoid arthritis? A. Brushing the teeth B. Drinking a glass of juice C. Drinking a cup of coffee D. Brushing the hair Answer C: Holding a cup of coffee or hot chocolate helps to relieve the pain and stiffness of the hands. Answers A, B, and D do not relieve the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis; therefore, they are incorrect.
63. A newborn weighed 7 pounds at birth. At 6 months of age, the infant could be expected to weigh: A. 14 pounds B. 18 pounds C. 25 pounds D. 30 pounds Answer A: The infant’s birth weight should double by 6 months of age. Answers B, C, and D are incorrect because they are greater than the expected weight gain by 6 months of age.
64. A client with nontropical sprue has an exacerbation of symptoms. Which meal selection is responsible for the recurrence of the client’s symptoms? A. Tossed salad with oil and vinegar dressing B. Baked potato with sour cream and chives C. Cream of tomato soup and crackers D. Mixed fruit and yogurt Answer C: Symptoms associated with nontropical sprue and celiac disease are caused by the ingestion of gluten, which is found in wheat, oats, barley,

and rye. Creamed soup and crackers contain gluten. Answers A, B, and D do not contain gluten; therefore, they are incorrect.

65. A client with congestive heart failure has been receiving Digoxin (lanoxin). Which finding indicates that the medication is having a desired effect? A. Increased urinary output B. Stabilized weight C. Improved appetite D. Increased pedal edema Answer A: Lanoxin (digoxin) slows and strengthens the contraction of the heart. An increase in urinary output shows that the medication is having a desired effect by eliminating excess fluid from the body. Answer B is incorrect because the weight would decrease. Answer C might occur but is not directly related to the question; therefore, it is incorrect. Answer D is incorrect because pedal edema would decrease, not increase.
66. Which play activity is best suited to the gross motor skills of the toddler? A. Coloring book and crayons B. Ball C. Building cubes D. Swing set Answer B: The toddler has gross motor skills suited to playing with a ball, which can be kicked forward or thrown overhand. Answers A and C are incorrect because they require fine motor skills. Answer D is incorrect because the toddler lacks gross motor skills for play on the swing set.
67. The physician has ordered Basalgel (aluminum carbonate gel) for a client with recurrent indigestion. The nurse should teach the client common side effects of the medication, which include: A. Constipation B. Urinary retention C. Diarrhea D. Confusion

Answer A: Antacids containing aluminum and calcium tend to cause constipation. Answer A refers to the side effects of anticholinergic medications used to treat ulcers; therefore, it is incorrect. Answer C refers to antacids containing magnesium; therefore, it is incorrect. Answer D refers to dopamine antagonists used to treat ulcers; therefore, it is incorrect.

68. A client is admitted with suspected abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA). A common complaint of the client with an abdominal aortic aneurysm is: A. Loss of sensation in the lower extremities B. Back pain that lessens when standing C. Decreased urinary output D. Pulsations in the periumbilical area Answer D: The client with an abdominal aortic aneurysm frequently complains of pulsations or “feeling my heart beat” in the abdomen. Answers A and C are incorrect because they occur with rupture of the aneurysm. Answer B is incorrect because back pain is not affected by changes in position.
69. A client is admitted with acute adrenal crisis. During the intake assessment, the nurse can expect to find that the client has: A. Low blood pressure B. Slow, regular pulse C. Warm, flushed skin D. Increased urination Answer A: The client with acute adrenal crisis has symptoms of hypovolemia and shock; therefore, the blood pressure would be low. Answer B is incorrect because the pulse would be rapid and irregular. Answer C is incorrect because the skin would be cool and pale. Answer D is incorrect because the urinary output would be decreased.
70. An elderly client is hospitalized for a transurethral prostatectomy. Which finding should be reported to the doctor immediately? A. Hourly urinary output of 40–50cc B. Bright red urine with many clots