nclex practice questions 2023 health assessment

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Step-by-step rationale for why answer A is correct: 1. Leukoedema is a common benign condition in individuals of African descent. 2. Leukoedema presents as greyish-white lesions on the buccal mucosa. 3. It is typically asymptomatic and does not require treatment. 4. Leukoedema is not associated with any serious health concerns. Summary of why other choices are incorrect: B. Hyperpigmentation would present as dark patches, not greyish-white lesions. C. Torus palatinus is a bony growth on the hard palate, not a mucosal lesion. D. Cancerous lesions typically have different characteristics and would require further investigation.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Any recent drainage from the ear. This is crucial because drainage could indicate an infection or other underlying issue causing the auricle symptoms. Hearing changes (option A) may not be directly related to the auricle findings. Recent trauma (option C) would be more evident on inspection. Prolonged cold exposure (option D) is less likely to cause the described symptoms.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: migraine headaches. The patient's symptoms of severe throbbing headache in the frontotemporal area, triggered by stress (studying for an exam), partially relieved by lying down, and family history of similar headaches are indicative of migraines. Migraines commonly present with these characteristics, often exacerbated by stress and have a genetic component. A: Hypertension does not typically present with throbbing headaches in a specific area or relief with lying down. B: Cluster headaches are characterized by severe, unilateral headaches around the eye area, not frontotemporal. C: Tension headaches usually present as dull, constant pressure-type headaches, not throbbing, and do not have the familial pattern described by the patient.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D because the movement of extraocular muscles is primarily controlled by cranial nerves III, IV, and VI. CN III controls most of the eye movements, CN IV controls the superior oblique muscle, and CN VI controls the lateral rectus muscle. These nerves work together to coordinate eye movements in all directions. Choices A and B are incorrect because age or cataracts do not directly impact the stimulation of extraocular muscles. Choice C is incorrect as CNs I and II are not involved in controlling extraocular muscle movement.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Teeth that appear shorter. As people age, teeth naturally wear down and may appear shorter due to years of use. This is a normal part of the aging process. B: A smoother tongue is not a typical age-related change. C: Beefy red buccal mucosa may be indicative of an underlying health issue, not solely related to aging. D: A painless lump on the tongue could be a sign of a more serious condition and should be investigated further.