Chapter 33: Self-Concept Fundamentals of Nursing 11th Edition (Potter & Perry) 50 NCLEX-Style Exam Questions with Detailed Rationale

1. A nurse is assessing a patient’s self-concept. Which behavior most clearly indicates a disturbed self-concept? A) Expressing confidence in recovery B) Asking for support from family C) Refusing to look in a mirror after surgery D) Requesting pain medication regularly Answer: C Rationale: Refusing to look in the mirror may indicate altered body image and disturbed self-concept related to recent physical changes. ________________________________________ 2. Which component of self-concept is most influenced by the nurse’s feedback during care? A) Body image B) Identity C) Role performance D) Self-esteem Answer: D Rationale: Self-esteem is significantly affected by external feedback, such as affirmations or criticisms from nurses and others. ________________________________________ 3. A teenager says, “I don’t know who I am anymore.” This statement reflects an issue with: A) Role confusion B) Body image C) Self-esteem D) Learned helplessness Answer: A Rationale: “Not knowing who I am” is classic of role confusion, often occurring during adolescence when identity is still forming. ________________________________________ 4. A 35-year-old patient recently unemployed expresses worthlessness. What is the priority nursing diagnosis? A) Chronic low self-esteem B) Risk for loneliness C) Disturbed body image D) Powerlessness Answer: A Rationale: The patient’s verbalized sense of worthlessness reflects chronic low self-esteem, requiring focused nursing intervention. ________________________________________ 5. What question should a nurse ask to assess a patient’s role performance? A) “How do you feel about your appearance?” B) “What do you do for a living?” C) “How do you typically cope with stress?” D) “Do you have trouble sleeping?” Answer: B Rationale: Role performance includes one’s work and social roles; understanding occupation helps assess this dimension. ________________________________________ 6. Which patient is at highest risk for disturbed body image? A) An adolescent with asthma B) A postpartum woman with stretch marks C) A patient post-mastectomy D) An elderly man with arthritis Answer: C Rationale: Major surgical changes like mastectomy frequently affect body image and thus self-concept. ________________________________________ 7. What nursing action best supports the development of a positive self-concept in hospitalized children? A) Minimizing playtime B) Encouraging independence in age-appropriate tasks C) Completing tasks for the child D) Withholding information to reduce anxiety Answer: B Rationale: Supporting autonomy fosters self-esteem and confidence in children, promoting healthy self-concept. ________________________________________ 8. Which of the following is an example of role conflict? A) A man caring for his sick parent while working full time B) A patient avoiding eye contact after amputation C) A student feeling uncertain about the future D) A mother struggling with her appearance post-pregnancy Answer: A Rationale: Role conflict occurs when individuals face competing demands from different roles, such as employee and caregiver. ________________________________________ 9. When should a nurse suspect altered self-esteem in an older adult? A) States “I am proud of my accomplishments” B) Avoids making eye contact and appears withdrawn C) Enjoys visiting with grandchildren D) Joins a new senior activity group Answer: B Rationale: Withdrawal and avoiding eye contact may signal reduced self-worth or self-esteem. ________________________________________ 10. A patient with a new ileostomy is refusing care. What should the nurse assess first? A) Pain level B) Knowledge about the ostomy C) Readiness to learn D) Body image concerns Answer: D Rationale: Refusal of care often stems from distress about body image and adjustment to physical changes.