Chapter 40 Hygiene Fundamentals of Nursing 11th Edition (Potter & Perry) 50 NCLEX-Style Exam Questions with Detailed Rationale

1. A nurse is performing morning care for a patient. Which activity is considered part of hygiene care? A. Administering medications B. Changing a surgical dressing C. Bathing and oral care D. Performing a focused physical assessment Correct Answer: C Rationale: Hygiene care includes bathing, oral care, hair care, nail care, and perineal care to maintain cleanliness and comfort. ________________________________________ 2. A nurse is providing perineal care for a female patient. What technique is appropriate? A. Wipe from back to front B. Use circular motions from outer to inner labia C. Wipe from front to back D. Always use alcohol-based wipes Correct Answer: C Rationale: Wiping front to back prevents contamination of the urinary tract by fecal organisms. ________________________________________ 3. A patient with diabetes mellitus requires foot care. What is the priority nursing intervention? A. Soak feet daily B. Trim toenails with scissors C. File toenails straight across D. Apply lotion between the toes Correct Answer: C Rationale: Toenails should be filed straight across to prevent injury; soaking and lotion between toes should be avoided in diabetics. ________________________________________ 4. A nurse delegates a bed bath to a nursing assistant. What instruction is most important? A. Change the bed linens afterward B. Be sure to wear gloves C. Report any skin breakdown or redness D. Use cold water to avoid burns Correct Answer: C Rationale: Noticing and reporting skin issues ensures early intervention and prevents pressure injuries. ________________________________________ 5. Which patient would require special oral hygiene? A. A patient receiving total parenteral nutrition B. A patient who ambulates independently C. A patient with a clean, moist mouth D. A patient who eats solid foods regularly Correct Answer: A Rationale: Patients not eating by mouth, such as those on TPN, are at risk for dry mouth and require diligent oral care. ________________________________________ 6. What is the primary purpose of providing regular hygiene? A. Decrease workload on nurses B. Maintain client independence C. Promote comfort and prevent infection D. Meet hospital policy requirements Correct Answer: C Rationale: Hygiene improves comfort, maintains skin integrity, and reduces infection risk. ________________________________________ 7. What is the most appropriate nursing diagnosis for a dependent patient with hygiene needs? A. Risk for impaired memory B. Impaired physical mobility C. Risk for unstable blood glucose D. Ineffective thermoregulation Correct Answer: B Rationale: Limited movement often affects a patient's ability to perform hygiene independently. ________________________________________ 8. Which patient should not use a standard razor for shaving? A. A patient on warfarin therapy B. A patient with a mustache C. A patient with dry skin D. A patient who prefers not to shave Correct Answer: A Rationale: Patients on anticoagulants are at risk for bleeding and should use electric razors instead. ________________________________________ 9. A nurse is providing oral care to an unconscious patient. What is the best position? A. High Fowler’s position B. Supine with neck extended C. Side-lying with head turned to the side D. Sitting upright Correct Answer: C Rationale: This position prevents aspiration by allowing secretions to drain from the mouth.