**Question 1: Cardiovascular System**
A nurse is caring for a patient with heart failure. Which clinical finding should the nurse prioritize when assessing for worsening heart failure?
A. Increased urinary output
B. Decreased blood pressure
C. Weight gain of 2 pounds in a day
D. Reduced respiratory rate
**Question 2: Respiratory System**
A patient with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is prescribed albuterol (Ventolin) via a metered-dose inhaler. Which action should the nurse instruct the patient to take before using the inhaler?
A. Inhale deeply and forcefully
B. Exhale fully before inhaling the medication
C. Use the inhaler only during acute exacerbations
D. Take a sip of water immediately after using the inhaler
**Question 3: Gastrointestinal System**
A postoperative patient had abdominal surgery earlier in the day. Which nursing intervention is the highest priority to prevent postoperative complications?
A. Administering a mild analgesic
B. Assisting the patient to sit up in bed
C. Encouraging deep breathing and coughing
D. Offering a clear liquid diet
**Question 4: Endocrine System**
A patient with type 1 diabetes mellitus is admitted with diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA). The nurse understands that which laboratory value would be most indicative of DKA?
A. Low blood glucose level
B. High blood glucose level
C. High serum insulin level
D. Low serum ketone levels
**Question 5: Neurological System**
A patient with a history of seizures is admitted to the hospital. Which nursing action should be the priority for this patient?
A. Administering seizure medication on schedule
B. Keeping the patient in a well-lit room at all times
C. Restraining the patient during periods of confusion
D. Administering a high-dose sedative as needed
**Question 6: Renal and Urinary System**
A patient with acute kidney injury has oliguria (low urine output). What intervention should the nurse prioritize?
A. Restricting fluid intake to prevent further damage
B. Monitoring for signs of dehydration
C. Administering diuretics to increase urine output
D. Assessing for electrolyte imbalances
**Question 7: Integumentary System and Wound Care**
A patient has a stage IV pressure ulcer on the sacral area. Which nursing intervention is the priority for wound care?
A. Applying a hydrocolloid dressing
B. Administering a prophylactic antibiotic
C. Keeping the wound open to air
D. Performing a wound culture
**Question 8: Surgical Nursing and Perioperative Care**
A patient is scheduled for elective surgery tomorrow. What should the nurse instruct the patient regarding food and fluid intake the night before the surgery?
A. "You can have a regular dinner, but avoid breakfast on the day of surgery."
B. "You should have a light dinner and avoid any fluids after midnight."
C. "You should fast for 24 hours before the surgery to ensure an empty stomach."
D. "You can have a full meal up to two hours before the surgery."
**Question 9: Special Populations and Ethical Considerations**
A nurse is caring for a terminally ill patient who has expressed a wish to stop all life-sustaining treatments. What should the nurse do first in this situation?
A. Seek a second opinion from another healthcare provider
B. Convince the patient to continue treatment
C. Notify the patient's family of the decision
D. Collaborate with the healthcare team to ensure the patient's wishes are followed
**Question 10: Medication Administration Safety**
A nurse is preparing to administer a medication to a patient via an intravenous (IV) push. What action is most important to ensure safe IV medication administration?
A. Check the patient's allergy history
B. Verify the medication with another nurse
C. Flush the IV line with saline before and after the medication
D. Monitor vital signs continuously during the administration
Answers:
1. B
2. B
3. C
4. B
5. A
6. D
7. A
8. B
9. D
10. C