Module 2: NURS 5220 Module 2 Mock Exam: Questions & Answers: Latest Updated 2026

A 2-month-old infant presents with a rectal temperature of 101.2°F. What is the most appropriate next step? A. Reassure parents that this is normal in young infants B. Evaluate immediately for possible infection C. Administer acetaminophen and observe D. Recheck axillary temperature before intervening Correct Answer: B Rationale: Infants 0–90 days old with a fever (temperature greater than 100.4°F) require immediate medical evaluation for serious bacterial infection. Question 2 Which mechanism best describes how the hypothalamus raises body temperature during a fever? A. Vasodilation and sweating B. Shivering and vasoconstriction C. Increased renal excretion of heat D. Heat loss via radiation Correct Answer: B Rationale: The physiological fever response driven by the hypothalamus uses shivering to generate heat and peripheral vasoconstriction to conserve heat. Question 3 Which fever reading requires urgent evaluation in an infant older than 90 days? A. 100.2°F oralB. 100.4°F axillary C. 105.5°F rectal D. 99.8°F tympanic Correct Answer: C Rationale: In infants older than 90 days, a rectal temperature greater than 105.5°F represents a critical threshold requiring immediate urgent evaluation. Question 4 Which pulse site is most reliable for assessing peripheral circulation and perfusion in infants? A. Radial B. Femoral C. Popliteal D. Posterior tibial Correct Answer: B Rationale: Femoral and brachial pulses best reflect infant systemic perfusion and hemodynamic stability. Question 5 When assessing an older adult with an irregular pulse rhythm, what is the best next step? A. Count for 15 seconds multiplied by 4 B. Count for 30 seconds multiplied by 2 C. Count for a full 60 seconds D. Palpate a different peripheral artery Correct Answer: C Rationale: An irregular pulse rate or rhythm requires counting for a full 60 seconds or obtaining an apical pulse to ensure accurate assessment.Section 2: Respiratory & Blood Pressure Assessment Question 6 Which chest wall muscles are primarily responsible for inspiration? A. Internal intercostals B. External intercostals and diaphragm C. Sternocleidomastoid only D. Rectus abdominis Correct Answer: B Rationale: Inspiration is driven primarily by contraction of the diaphragm and external intercostal muscles.