NUR2115/NUR 2115 Exam 3 V1 |
Fundamentals of Professional
Nursing Q&A with Rationale |
Rasmussen University
1. A nurse is caring for a patient who is experiencing difficulty falling asleep. Which
neurotransmitter is primarily responsible for promoting sleep?
A. Dopamine
B. Acetylcholine
C. Norepinephrine
D. Serotonin
Correct Answer: D
Expert Explanation: Serotonin is a key neurotransmitter that helps regulate the sleep-
wake cycle by promoting relaxation and sleepiness. Dopamine and norepinephrine are
generally associated with alertness and the stress response. Understanding the chemical
basis of sleep helps nurses choose appropriate pharmacological and non-pharmacological
interventions.
2. When assessing a patient’s sleep history, the nurse notes the patient reports frequent
night terrors. In which stage of sleep do these typically occur?
A. Stage N1
,B. Stage N3
C. Stage N2
D. REM sleep
Correct Answer: B
Expert Explanation: Stage N3, also known as deep or slow-wave sleep, is the period where
parasomnias like night terrors and sleepwalking occur. During this stage, the body is in its
most restorative state of rest. It is often difficult to awaken a person from this stage of
sleep.
3. A patient diagnosed with narcolepsy is being educated by the nurse. Which symptom
should the nurse highlight as a sudden loss of muscle tone triggered by emotion?
A. Cataplexy
B. Sleep paralysis
C. Hypnagogic hallucinations
D. Insomnia
Correct Answer: A
Expert Explanation: Cataplexy is a hallmark sign of narcolepsy characterized by a sudden,
brief loss of voluntary muscle control. It is often triggered by strong emotions such as
laughter, anger, or surprise. Nurses must educate patients on safety measures to prevent
falls during these episodes.
, 4. The nurse is educating a patient about ‘sleep hygiene.’ Which recommendation is most
appropriate?
A. Exercise vigorously right before bedtime.
B. Take long naps during the afternoon.
C. Maintain a consistent wake-up time even on weekends.
D. Drink a glass of red wine to help relax before bed.
Correct Answer: C
Expert Explanation: Consistent sleep and wake times help regulate the body’s internal
circadian rhythm for better quality rest. Alcohol may help with falling asleep but often
leads to fragmented sleep and poor quality REM. Afternoon naps and late exercise can
interfere with the drive to sleep at night.
5. A nurse is assessing a patient for obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). Which clinical
manifestation is most characteristic of this disorder?
A. Increased focus and concentration
B. Increased appetite
C. Nighttime leg cramps
D. Excessive daytime sleepiness
Correct Answer: D
Fundamentals of Professional
Nursing Q&A with Rationale |
Rasmussen University
1. A nurse is caring for a patient who is experiencing difficulty falling asleep. Which
neurotransmitter is primarily responsible for promoting sleep?
A. Dopamine
B. Acetylcholine
C. Norepinephrine
D. Serotonin
Correct Answer: D
Expert Explanation: Serotonin is a key neurotransmitter that helps regulate the sleep-
wake cycle by promoting relaxation and sleepiness. Dopamine and norepinephrine are
generally associated with alertness and the stress response. Understanding the chemical
basis of sleep helps nurses choose appropriate pharmacological and non-pharmacological
interventions.
2. When assessing a patient’s sleep history, the nurse notes the patient reports frequent
night terrors. In which stage of sleep do these typically occur?
A. Stage N1
,B. Stage N3
C. Stage N2
D. REM sleep
Correct Answer: B
Expert Explanation: Stage N3, also known as deep or slow-wave sleep, is the period where
parasomnias like night terrors and sleepwalking occur. During this stage, the body is in its
most restorative state of rest. It is often difficult to awaken a person from this stage of
sleep.
3. A patient diagnosed with narcolepsy is being educated by the nurse. Which symptom
should the nurse highlight as a sudden loss of muscle tone triggered by emotion?
A. Cataplexy
B. Sleep paralysis
C. Hypnagogic hallucinations
D. Insomnia
Correct Answer: A
Expert Explanation: Cataplexy is a hallmark sign of narcolepsy characterized by a sudden,
brief loss of voluntary muscle control. It is often triggered by strong emotions such as
laughter, anger, or surprise. Nurses must educate patients on safety measures to prevent
falls during these episodes.
, 4. The nurse is educating a patient about ‘sleep hygiene.’ Which recommendation is most
appropriate?
A. Exercise vigorously right before bedtime.
B. Take long naps during the afternoon.
C. Maintain a consistent wake-up time even on weekends.
D. Drink a glass of red wine to help relax before bed.
Correct Answer: C
Expert Explanation: Consistent sleep and wake times help regulate the body’s internal
circadian rhythm for better quality rest. Alcohol may help with falling asleep but often
leads to fragmented sleep and poor quality REM. Afternoon naps and late exercise can
interfere with the drive to sleep at night.
5. A nurse is assessing a patient for obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). Which clinical
manifestation is most characteristic of this disorder?
A. Increased focus and concentration
B. Increased appetite
C. Nighttime leg cramps
D. Excessive daytime sleepiness
Correct Answer: D
