Prepare for your test with realistic questions.
The NCLEX-RN exam is a standardized test for nurses seeking licensure in the
United States and Canada. It's a comprehensive assessment of a nurse's knowledge
and application of nursing principles. The exam covers various topics, including
physiological adaptation, health promotion, pharmacology, and more. Many find it
challenging due to its adaptive nature, meaning the difficulty adjusts based on the
test-taker's performance.
Preparation is key! Reviewing core nursing content, practicing with
NCLEX-style questions, and familiarizing oneself with test-taking strategies are
crucial. Many candidates use review books, online resources, and practice exams
to prepare. Remember, success on the NCLEX-RN not only requires knowledge
but also critical thinking and application of nursing principles to various scenarios.
It's a significant milestone towards becoming a registered nurse.
1. Question
Category: Reduction of Risk Potential
A patient who has received chemotherapy for cancer treatment is given an injection
of Epoetin. Which of the following should reflect the findings in a complete blood
count (CBC) drawn several days later?
A. An increase in neutrophil count
B. An increase in hematocrit
C. An increase in platelet count
D. An increase in serum iron
Correct Answer: B. An increase in hematocrit
Epoetin is a form of erythropoietin, which stimulates the production of red blood
cells, causing an increase in hematocrit. Epoetin is given to patients who are
anemic, often as a result of chemotherapy treatment.
2. Question
A patient is admitted to the hospital with suspected polycythemia vera. Which of
the following symptoms is consistent with the diagnosis? Select all that apply.
,A. Weight loss
B. Increased clotting time
C. Hypertension
D. Headaches
E. Polyphagia
Correct Answer: B, C, and D
Polycythemia vera is a condition in which the bone marrow produces too many red
blood cells. This causes an increase in hematocrit and viscosity of the blood.
Patients can experience headaches, dizziness, and visual disturbances.
Cardiovascular effects include increased blood pressure and delayed clotting time.
3. Question
Category: Reduction of Risk Potential
A nurse is caring for a patient with a platelet count of 20,000/microliter. Which of
the following is an important intervention?
A. Observe for evidence of spontaneous bleeding.
B. Limit visitors to family only.
C. Give aspirin in case of headaches.
D. Impose immune precautions.
Correct Answer: A. Observe for evidence of spontaneous bleeding.
Platelet counts under 30,000/microliter may cause spontaneous petechiae and
bruising, particularly in the extremities. When the count falls below 15,000,
spontaneous bleeding into the brain and internal organs may occur. Headaches may
be a sign and should be watched for.
4. Question
Category: Pharmacological and Parenteral Therapies
, A nurse in the emergency department assesses a patient who has been taking long-
term corticosteroids to treat renal disease. Which of the following is a typical side
effect of corticosteroid treatment? Select all that apply.
A. Hypertension
B. Cushingoid features
C. Hyponatremia
D. Low serum albumin
E. Mood swings
Correct Answer: A, B, D, and E.
Side effects of corticosteroids include weight gain, fluid retention with
hypertension, Cushingoid features, low serum albumin, suppressed inflammatory
response, and mood swings. Patients are encouraged to eat a diet high in protein,
vitamins, and minerals and low in sodium.
5. Question
Category: Physiological Adaptation
A nurse is caring for patients in the oncology unit. Which of the following is
the most important nursing action when caring for a neutropenic patient?