Comprehensive Nursing Skills Exam Questions with Verified Answers

1. A patient is admitted with a stroke. The outcome of this disorder is uncertain, but the patient is unable to move the right arm and leg. The nurse starts passive range-of-motion (ROM) exercises. Which finding indicates successful goal achievement? a. Heart rate decreased. b. Contractures developed. c. Muscle strength improved. d. Joint mobility maintained. -Answer-d. Joint mobility maintained. Rationale: When patients cannot participate in active ROM, maintain joint mobility and prevent contractures by implementing passive ROM into the plan of care. Exercise and active ROM can improve muscle strength. ROM is not performed for the heart but for the joints 2. A nurse is preparing to move a patient who is able to assist. Which principles will the nurse consider when planning for safe patient handling? (Select all that apply.) a. Keep the body's center of gravity high. b. Face the direction of the movement. c. Keep the base of support narrow. d. Use the under-axilla technique. e. Use proper body mechanics. f. Use arms and legs. -Answer-b, e, f Rationale: When a patient is able to assist, remember the following principles: The wider the base of support, the greater the stability of the nurse; the lower the center of gravity, the greater the stability of the nurse; facing the direction of movement prevents abnormal twisting of the spine. The use of assistive equipment and continued use of proper body mechanics significantly reduces the risk of musculoskeletal injuries. Use arms and legs (not back) because the leg muscles are stronger, larger muscles capable of greater work without injury. The under-axilla technique is physically stressful for nurses and uncomfortable for patients. 3. A nurse reviews the history of a newly admitted patient. Which finding will alert the nurse that the patient is at risk for falls? a. 55 years old b. 20/20 vision c. Urinary continence d. Orthostatic hypotension -Answer-d. Orthostatic hypotension Rationale: Numerous factors increase the risk of falls, including a history of falling, being age 65 or over, reduced vision, orthostatic hypotension, lower extremity weakness, gait and balance problems, urinary incontinence, improper use of walking aids, and the