(2026) Q&A
1. Which statement best describes the primary purpose of the initial nursing
assessment?
A) To identify the patient's long - term goals
B) To establish baseline data and identify immediate risks
C) To review the patient's discharge plan
D) To discuss the patient's dietary preferences
Correct Answer: To establish baseline data and identify immediate risks
Rationale: The initial assessment establishes baseline data and identifies urgent
problems requiring immediate attention. Reviewing discharge plans, discussing
dietary preferences, and identifying long - term goals are important but not the
primary purpose of the init ial assessment. Baseline data guide all subsequent care
planning and interventions.
2. A patient with a history of malignant hyperthermia in a sibling is scheduled for
surgery. Which action should the nurse take?
A) Document the finding and continue the preoperative preparation
B) Notify the anesthesia provider immediately
C) Administer a prophylactic dose of dantrolene
D) Reassure the patient that this is a minor concern
Correct Answer: Notify the anesthesia provider immediately
,Rationale: Malignant hyperthermia is a life - threatening genetic condition triggered
by certain anesthetic agents. A family history of MH is a critical finding that requires
alternative anesthesia planning. The nurse must notify the anesthesia provider
immediately. A dministering dantrolene prophylactically is not the nurse's
independent action.
3. Which finding is an example of subjective data?
A) Blood pressure of 150/90 mm Hg
B) Heart rate of 88 beats per minute
C) Patient reports feeling nauseated
D) Skin is warm and dry to the touch
Correct Answer: Patient reports feeling nauseated
Rationale: Subjective data includes what the patient says or reports, such as
feelings, perceptions, and symptoms. Blood pressure, heart rate, and skin
assessment are objective data observed or measured by the nurse. Subjective data
are essential for a complete asse ssment.
4. Which statement accurately describes the difference between a nursing
diagnosis and a medical diagnosis?
A) A nursing diagnosis identifies a disease, while a medical diagnosis identifies a
patient response
B) A nursing diagnosis identifies a patient's response to a health condition, while a
medical diagnosis identifies a disease
C) Both are made by physicians
D) A nursing diagnosis requires a physician's order
, Correct Answer: A nursing diagnosis identifies a patient's response to a health
condition, while a medical diagnosis identifies a disease
Rationale: A nursing diagnosis describes a patient's response to actual or
potential health problems that nurses can independently treat. A medical diagnosis
identifies a disease or pathology and is made by a physician. Nursing diagnoses
guide nursing interventions.
5. According to Maslow's hierarchy of needs, which category should a nurse
prioritize first?
A) Safety and security
B) Physiological needs
C) Love and belonging
D) Self - actualization
Correct Answer: Physiological needs
Rationale: Maslow's hierarchy places physiological needs such as air, food, and
water at the base of the pyramid. These must be met before higher - level needs can
be addressed. Safety, love, and self - actualization are secondary until physiological
needs are satisfied .
6. Which action is an example of primary prevention?
A) Administering immunizations to a child
B) Performing a mammogram screening
C) Providing cardiac rehabilitation after a heart attack
D) Managing chronic pain with medication