Fundamentals of Professional Nursing
Exam Q&A | Rasmussen University
1. A nurse is using the SBAR communication tool to report a change in a patient’s condition to
a physician. Which statement represents the ‘B’ in SBAR?
A. The patient was admitted two days ago with a diagnosis of heart failure.
B. The patient’s heart rate is 110 beats per minute and blood pressure is 90/60.
C. I suggest we increase the patient’s diuretic dosage.
D. I am calling because the patient is experiencing increased shortness of breath.
Answer: A
Rationale: The ‘B’ stands for Background, which provides the clinical context and reason
for admission. In this scenario, stating the patient’s admission history and diagnosis
provides the necessary background. This allows the provider to understand the underlying
condition before hearing current assessment data.
2. Which ethical principle is the nurse upholding when they support a patient’s decision to
refuse a recommended medical treatment?
A. Autonomy
B. Justice
C. Beneficence
,D. Nonmaleficence
Answer: A
Rationale: Autonomy refers to the right of patients to make their own healthcare decisions
without influence. Supporting a refusal of treatment honors the patient’s self-
determination and legal rights. The nurse acts as an advocate for the patient’s personal
choices.
3. A nurse is preparing to administer an intramuscular injection. Which action is the most
critical for ensuring patient safety during medication administration?
A. Selecting the smallest needle gauge available.
B. Asking the patient to state their name and date of birth.
C. Administering the injection as quickly as possible.
D. Massaging the site after the injection is complete.
Answer: B
Rationale: Verifying the patient’s identity using two identifiers is the most critical safety
step to prevent medication errors. This process ensures the right medication is given to the
right person according to hospital policy. Neglecting this step is a primary cause of sentinel
events in healthcare.
4. Which level of prevention is a nurse practicing when they provide a smoking cessation
workshop for a group of healthy teenagers?
A. Secondary prevention
, B. Primary prevention
C. Tertiary prevention
D. Quaternary prevention
Answer: B
Rationale: Primary prevention aims to prevent disease or injury before it ever occurs. By
educating healthy teenagers on the dangers of smoking, the nurse is attempting to prevent
the initiation of the habit. This reduces the future incidence of smoking-related illnesses in
the population.
5. A nurse is caring for a patient who is on contact precautions. Which personal protective
equipment (PPE) must the nurse don before entering the room?
A. Mask and goggles
B. N95 respirator and face shield
C. Gown and gloves
D. Gloves and shoe covers
Answer: C
Rationale: Contact precautions require the use of a gown and gloves to prevent the
transmission of infectious agents via direct or indirect contact. These barriers protect the
nurse’s clothing and skin from contamination by the patient’s environment. Proper
donning and doffing techniques are essential to maintain infection control.