Nursing Fundamentals: Critical Thinking Exam 1 Questions and Answers | Latest Version | 2025/2026 | Correct & Verified

Nursing Fundamentals: Critical Thinking Exam 1 Questions and Answers | Latest Version | 2025/2026 | Correct & Verified What is the first step a nurse should take when a client suddenly becomes short of breath? Raise the head of the bed and assess oxygen saturation A client with dementia is attempting to pull out their IV line. What should the nurse do first? Apply soft mitt restraints and assess the client for discomfort The nurse is caring for a client with new-onset confusion. What should the nurse assess first? Check vital signs for possible causes like infection or low oxygen What is the best way for a nurse to prevent medication errors? Verify the patient using two identifiers before giving any medication A client’s wound is not healing as expected. What should the nurse do next? Reassess the wound and notify the provider for further evaluation 2 During a shift handoff, the nurse learns that a patient hasn't voided in 8 hours. What is the next action? Palpate the bladder and notify the provider if distended What should the nurse do if a patient refuses a medication? Document the refusal and notify the provider A client complains that their pain is 9/10, but is laughing and joking. What should the nurse do? Assess pain using a variety of tools and believe the client's report While preparing to insert a Foley catheter, the nurse realizes the sterile field has been contaminated. What is the next best step? Stop the procedure, discard supplies, and start over with new sterile equipment A nurse finds an unresponsive patient on the floor. What is the priority action? Check for breathing and a pulse 3 A patient is receiving IV fluids and the nurse observes swelling at the IV site. What should be done first? Stop the infusion and remove the IV The nurse is caring for a client who reports chest pain. What is the immediate nursing action? Administer oxygen and notify the provider A confused client is attempting to get out of bed unassisted. What should the nurse do? Stay with the client and call for assistance A client has new orders for a high-protein diet. What is the best nursing action? Collaborate with a dietitian to review the client’s meal plan What should the nurse do after noticing a coworker administer the wrong dose of medication? Report the error and follow the facility’s incident reporting policy A nurse enters a patient’s room and sees smoke from an electrical outlet. What is the first action? Remove the patient from the room 4 A client expresses fear about their upcoming