nclex physical and health assessment questions

Questions 46

ATI RN

ATI RN Test Bank

nclex physical and health assessment questions Questions

Question 1 of 5

A visitor from Poland who does not speak English appears somewhat apprehensive while the nurse is examining his neck. He would probably be most comfortable if the nurse were examining his thyroid:

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C because it demonstrates cultural sensitivity and respect for the patient's comfort. Placing the nurse's thumbs on either side of the trachea and tilting the patient's head forward is a non-threatening and non-invasive approach to examining the thyroid. This position allows the nurse to assess the thyroid gland without causing discomfort or intimidation to the patient. Choice A is incorrect because having the nurse's hands placed firmly around the neck from behind may be perceived as invasive and threatening to the patient. Choice B is incorrect because having the nurse's thumbs on the patient's neck with eyes averted toward the ceiling may come across as awkward and unprofessional. Choice D is incorrect because tilting the patient's head backward can cause discomfort and may not be culturally sensitive as it can be perceived as invasive.

Question 2 of 5

When the retina is examined, which of the following is considered a normal finding?

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: An optic disc that is a yellow-orange colour. This is a normal finding because the optic disc typically appears yellow-orange due to the presence of nerve fibers. The yellow-orange color is due to the absence of blood vessels in this area. This is a normal anatomical characteristic of the optic disc. Option B is incorrect because blurred optic disc margins can indicate pathology such as papilledema. Option C is incorrect because the presence of pigmented crescents in the macular area can indicate a condition like myopic degeneration, not a normal finding. Option D is incorrect because the macula is normally located temporally, not nasally, to the optic disc.

Question 3 of 5

An ophthalmic examination reveals papilledema. The nurse is aware that this finding indicates:

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: increased intracranial pressure. Papilledema is swelling of the optic disc due to increased pressure in the brain. It is a sign of serious conditions like brain tumors, head trauma, or hydrocephalus. The other choices are incorrect because retinal detachment presents with visual disturbances and floaters (A), diabetic retinopathy with retinal damage due to diabetes (B), and acute-angle glaucoma with sudden eye pain and blurred vision (C). Papilledema specifically indicates increased intracranial pressure, making choice D the correct answer.

Question 4 of 5

While performing a voice test to assess hearing in a patient, which of the following would the nurse do?

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Correct Answer: B Rationale: 1. Whispering two-syllable words ensures a low volume, requiring the patient to focus on clarity. 2. Asking the patient to repeat tests their ability to hear and understand the whispered words accurately. 3. Whispering helps eliminate the influence of lip-reading, ensuring accurate assessment. Summary: A: Shielding the lips while speaking would hinder the patient's ability to hear clearly. C: Placing a finger in the ear would not be appropriate as it could affect the accuracy of the test. D: Standing at a specific distance does not ensure accurate assessment of hearing ability.

Question 5 of 5

When performing the corneal light reflex assessment, the nurse notes that the light is reflected at the 2 o'clock position in each eye. The nurse would:

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: document this as an asymmetrical light reflex. This finding indicates an asymmetry in the corneal light reflex, suggesting a possible deviation in eye alignment or muscle weakness. It is essential to document this observation for further evaluation and monitoring. Choice A is incorrect as asymmetry in the light reflex is not a normal finding. Referring for further evaluation (Choice B) would be appropriate if the asymmetry persists or is associated with other concerning symptoms. Performing the confrontation test (Choice D) is not necessary for this specific assessment and finding.

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