nclex practice questions 2023 health assessment

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: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Diabetes. The presence of "cotton wool" or fluffy grey-white cumulus clouds on ophthalmoscopic examination indicates retinal nerve fiber layer infarcts due to microvascular damage, which is a common finding in diabetic retinopathy. This occurs due to ischemia and subsequent axonal swelling. In diabetes, hyperglycemia can lead to damage in the blood vessels supplying the retina, resulting in microaneurysms, hemorrhages, exudates, and ultimately vision loss if left untreated. Summary of other choices: B: Hyperthyroidism - This condition primarily affects the thyroid gland and does not directly cause the characteristic retinal findings described. C: Glaucoma - Glaucoma is a condition characterized by increased intraocular pressure and optic nerve damage, which does not typically present with the specific retinal findings mentioned. D: Hypotension - Low blood pressure may lead to retinal artery occlusion or ischemic optic neuropathy,

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Erythematous scaly patch with sharp margins in the sacral area. In patients with AIDS, this presentation is most likely indicative of a common opportunistic infection called tinea corporis. This fungal infection often presents as erythematous scaly patches with well-defined borders. The location in the sacral area is also common due to the warm and moist environment. Choice A, tinea capitis, is a fungal infection of the scalp and is not typically associated with AIDS. Choice B describes a presentation more indicative of a condition like seborrheic dermatitis rather than an AIDS-related skin manifestation. Choice D describes a presentation more typical of tinea corporis, which is not commonly seen in the axilla region in patients with AIDS.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B because the image formed on the retina is indeed upside down and reversed from its actual appearance in the outside world due to the way light rays are refracted and focused by the cornea and lens. This phenomenon is known as the inverted retinal image. Choice A is incorrect as visual pathways cross at the optic chiasm, so the right side of the brain interprets vision for the left visual field from both eyes. Choice C is incorrect as light rays are refracted at the cornea and lens, not through the transparent media of the eye before striking the pupil. Choice D is incorrect as light impulses are conducted through the optic nerve to the occipital lobes, not the temporal lobes, where the primary visual cortex is located.

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.