Fundamentals of Professional Nursing
Exam Q&A | Rasmussen University
1. A nurse is preparing to perform hand hygiene. Which of the following is the most
important factor in reducing the number of microorganisms on the hands?
A. The type of soap used
B. The temperature of the water
C. The friction generated by rubbing hands together
D. The length of time the hands are rinsed
Answer: C
Rationale: Friction is the most effective component of handwashing because it physically
removes transient flora from the skin. While soap helps emulsify fats and water rinses
away debris, it is the mechanical action that ensures microbial reduction. Proper hand
hygiene is the primary intervention for preventing healthcare-associated infections.
2. A patient is admitted with a diagnosis of suspected tuberculosis (TB). Which type of
precautions should the nurse implement?
A. Contact precautions
B. Airborne precautions
C. Droplet precautions
,D. Standard precautions only
Answer: B
Rationale: Tuberculosis is transmitted through small droplets that remain suspended in
the air, requiring airborne precautions. This includes placing the patient in a private room
with negative pressure airflow. The nurse must also wear a fitted N95 respirator to prevent
inhalation of the pathogen.
3. A nurse is caring for an older adult who is at risk for falls. Which intervention is the highest
priority?
A. Keeping all four side rails up at all times
B. Administering a mild sedative at bedtime
C. Placing the call light within the patient’s reach
D. Restricting the patient’s physical activity
Answer: C
Rationale: Ensuring the call light is within reach allows the patient to request assistance
before attempting to get out of bed alone. Using four side rails is often considered a
restraint and can increase the risk of injury if the patient tries to climb over them. Safety
interventions should always prioritize autonomy and the least restrictive environment.
4. Which phase of the nursing process involves the nurse collecting subjective and objective
data?
A. Diagnosis
, B. Planning
C. Implementation
D. Assessment
Answer: D
Rationale: Assessment is the foundational first step of the nursing process where data is
gathered to identify patient needs. This includes physical examination, medical history, and
listening to the patient’s self-reported symptoms. Without a thorough assessment, the
subsequent steps of the nursing process cannot be accurately developed.
5. The nurse is preparing to administer an intramuscular (IM) injection to an adult. Which site
is preferred for safety and reduced risk of nerve damage?
A. Ventrogluteal
B. Dorsogluteal
C. Deltoid
D. Vastus lateralis
Answer: A
Rationale: The ventrogluteal site is the preferred injection site for adults because it is
away from major nerves and blood vessels. It is a large, well-developed muscle that can
tolerate larger volumes of medication. The dorsogluteal site is no longer recommended due
to its proximity to the sciatic nerve.