nclex practice questions 2023 health assessment

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Pull the pinna up and back before inserting the speculum. This is because pulling the pinna up and back straightens the auditory canal, allowing for easier and more accurate insertion of the speculum without causing discomfort or injury. Option A is incorrect as tilting the head forward may obstruct the view. Option B is incorrect as maintaining traction is essential for stability. Option D is incorrect as using the smallest speculum may not provide a clear view or proper insertion depth.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C because shining a light across the pupil from the side allows for both direct (ipsilateral) and consensual (contralateral) pupillary constriction to be observed. This technique helps to assess the integrity of the cranial nerves involved in the pupillary light reflex (CN II and III). Direct constriction occurs in the eye exposed to the light, while consensual constriction occurs in the opposite eye. This comprehensive assessment ensures that both pupils are responding appropriately to light stimulation, providing a more accurate evaluation of the reflex. Choice A is incorrect because inspecting for pupillary constriction from directly in front may not adequately assess for consensual constriction in the opposite eye. Choice B is incorrect as asking the patient to follow the penlight in eight directions does not specifically target the pupillary light reflex. Choice D is incorrect as it focuses on accommodation rather than the pupillary light reflex.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: filter out dust and bacteria. The ciliated mucous membrane in the nose traps dust and bacteria present in the inhaled air through the mucus layer and then moves them towards the throat to be swallowed or expelled. This helps in protecting the respiratory system from harmful particles. Choice A is incorrect as the warming of inhaled air is primarily done by the nasal passages and sinuses, not the ciliated mucous membrane. Choice C is incorrect because the filtering of coarse particles is also done by the nasal hairs and the mucous membrane working together, not just the ciliated mucous membrane alone. Choice D is incorrect as the movement of air through the nares is mainly controlled by the size of the nostrils and is not the primary function of the ciliated mucous membrane.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C because a bruit is a soft, whooshing, pulsatile sound best heard with the bell of the stethoscope. This sound indicates turbulent blood flow, often due to a narrowed or blocked artery. Using the bell of the stethoscope allows for better detection of low-frequency sounds like bruits. A is incorrect because a low gurgling sound is not indicative of a bruit. B is incorrect because a loud, whooshing, blowing sound is not characteristic of a bruit. D is incorrect because a high-pitched tinkling sound is not typically associated with a bruit. In summary, the correct answer is C because it accurately describes the characteristics of a bruit, while the other choices do not align with the typical sound of a bruit.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: "Have you noticed any dryness in your mouth?" This question is important as dryness in the mouth can be a side effect of certain medications used to manage hypertension and chronic lung disease. Dry mouth can lead to oral health issues and impact the patient's overall well-being. A: "Do you use a fluoride supplement?" is not directly relevant to the patient's medical history of hypertension and lung disease. B: "Have you had tonsillitis in the last year?" is not as crucial as dry mouth in relation to managing hypertension and lung disease. C: "At what age did you get your first tooth?" is not pertinent to the current medical conditions and management of hypertension and lung disease. In summary, the question about dryness in the mouth is the most relevant as it pertains to potential medication side effects and oral health implications for the patient with hypertension and chronic lung disease.