Chapter 38 Activity and Exercise Fundamentals of Nursing 11th Edition (Potter & Perry) 50 NCLEX-Style Exam Questions with Detailed Rationale

1. A nurse is assessing a patient’s mobility. Which assessment is most appropriate to determine range of motion? A. Observing the patient’s gait B. Measuring muscle tone C. Asking the patient to perform joint movements D. Assessing the patient's balance with eyes closed Correct Answer: C Rationale: Asking the patient to perform specific joint movements allows the nurse to directly assess range of motion (ROM). ________________________________________ 2. Which statement by the nurse best explains the purpose of isometric exercises? A. “They increase muscle mass by moving the joints repeatedly.” B. “They involve tensing muscles without moving body parts.” C. “They require use of weights and resistance bands.” D. “They strengthen muscles through aerobic activity.” Correct Answer: B Rationale: Isometric exercises involve muscle contraction without joint movement, often used in rehabilitation. ________________________________________ 3. A patient recovering from surgery is on bed rest. What is the priority complication the nurse should monitor? A. Hypoglycemia B. Pressure injury C. Hyperthermia D. Diarrhea Correct Answer: B Rationale: Immobility increases the risk of pressure injuries due to prolonged pressure on skin and tissues. ________________________________________ 4. The nurse teaches a patient about body mechanics. Which action indicates understanding? A. Bending at the waist when lifting a heavy box B. Holding objects away from the body during lifting C. Using the leg muscles when lifting objects D. Twisting the torso to turn while lifting Correct Answer: C Rationale: Using leg muscles protects the back and prevents injury, a key principle of proper body mechanics. ________________________________________ 5. Which term describes the ability to move freely, easily, and purposefully in the environment? A. Mobility B. Coordination C. Activity tolerance D. Balance Correct Answer: A Rationale: Mobility refers to purposeful movement and is essential for maintaining function and independence. ________________________________________ 6. Which patient is at greatest risk for complications from immobility? A. A 45-year-old who walks with a cane B. A 30-year-old with a wrist fracture in a sling C. A 70-year-old on strict bed rest after surgery D. A 55-year-old with controlled hypertension Correct Answer: C Rationale: Older adults on prolonged bed rest are at higher risk for complications such as thrombus formation and muscle atrophy. ________________________________________ 7. A nurse plans to promote venous return in a postoperative patient. What intervention is most appropriate? A. Applying warm compresses to the legs B. Elevating the legs above heart level C. Encouraging isometric hand grips D. Placing pillows behind the knees Correct Answer: B Rationale: Elevating the legs promotes venous return and reduces risk of thrombus formation; avoid pillows under knees as they may impede circulation. ________________________________________ 8. Which finding indicates a normal gait during ambulation? A. Shuffling feet with each step B. Equal arm swing with opposite leg C. Stiff, symmetrical leg movement D. Narrow stance and rapid steps Correct Answer: B Rationale: Normal gait includes coordinated movement of opposite arm and leg with balanced posture. ________________________________________ 9. Which positioning technique prevents foot drop in a bedridden patient? A. Placing a pillow under the knees B. Using a trochanter roll C. Applying high-top sneakers or a footboard D. Keeping the bed flat at all times Correct Answer: C Rationale: A footboard or high-top shoes maintain dorsiflexion, preventing plantar flexion contractures (foot drop).