NCLEX Nursing Study Guide – Prioritization, Drug Dosages & Patient Safety
Overview
This guide covers essential NCLEX exam topics including patient prioritization, drug dosage
calculations, infection control, therapeutic communication, and legal/ethical nursing
responsibilities. Each section includes brief summaries, exam-style Q&A, and sample NCLEX-
style multiple choice questions.
1. Prioritization of Care
Summary:
Prioritization follows the ABC rule: Airway, Breathing, Circulation. Patients with compromised
ABCs are seen first. Also consider Maslow’s Hierarchy and acute vs. chronic conditions.
Q: A patient with shortness of breath, chest pain, and a history of MI is in triage. Who is
prioritized?
A: The patient with chest pain and SOB – possible cardiac event. ABCs take priority.
MCQ:
Which patient should be seen first?
A. Post-op with mild pain
B. Diabetic with 100mg/dL glucose
C. Patient with inspiratory stridor
D. Patient requesting to speak with a chaplain
Answer: C
2. Drug Dosage Calculations
Summary:
Accurate medication calculation is critical in nursing. Common formulas: Dose = (Ordered /
Available) x Quantity.
Q: A doctor orders 400 mg of a drug. Tablets come in 200 mg. How many tablets do you give?
A: 2 tablets (400 ÷ 200 = 2)
MCQ:
Order: Amoxicillin 500mg PO. Stock: 250mg/tab. How many tablets?
A. 1
B. 1.5
C. 2
D. 3
Answer: C
