Fundamentals of Professional Nursing
Exam Q&A | Rasmussen University
1. Which phase of the nursing process involves the systematic collection of subjective and
objective data?
A. Diagnosis
B. Assessment
C. Planning
D. Implementation
Answer: B
Rationale: Assessment is the first step of the nursing process and involves gathering both
subjective data from the patient and objective data through observation. This step is
foundational because it provides the information necessary to identify patient problems.
Without a thorough assessment, the nurse cannot accurately proceed to the diagnosis or
planning stages.
2. A nurse is caring for a patient who refuses to take their blood pressure medication. Which
ethical principle is the nurse honoring by respecting the patient’s decision?
A. Beneficence
B. Autonomy
,C. Justice
D. Non-maleficence
Answer: B
Rationale: Autonomy refers to the right of the patient to make their own healthcare
decisions even if the nurse disagrees. This principle recognizes that patients have self-
determination and control over their own bodies. In this scenario, the nurse respects the
patient’s right to refuse treatment after providing necessary education.
3. Which of the following tasks can a registered nurse (RN) safely delegate to an unlicensed
assistive personnel (UAP)?
A. Administering oral medications
B. Assessing a newly admitted patient
C. Assisting a stable patient with a bed bath
D. Developing a plan of care for a diabetic patient
Answer: C
Rationale: UAPs are trained to perform routine, non-invasive tasks such as hygiene,
feeding, and ambulating stable patients. Assessment, medication administration, and care
planning require professional nursing judgment and cannot be delegated. The RN remains
accountable for the outcome of any task delegated to assistive personnel.
, 4. What is the most effective way to prevent the spread of infection in a healthcare setting?
A. Wearing gloves at all times
B. Isolation rooms for all patients
C. Prophylactic antibiotics
D. Hand hygiene
Answer: D
Rationale: Hand hygiene is universally recognized as the single most important practice to
reduce the transmission of infectious agents. It should be performed before and after
patient contact and after touching contaminated surfaces. Consistent handwashing or using
alcohol-based rubs protects both the healthcare provider and the patient from cross-
contamination.
5. A nurse is communicating with a patient using the SBAR technique. What does the ‘R’ in
SBAR stand for?
A. Recommendation
B. Reason
C. Review
D. Response
Answer: A