PN EXAM PRACTICE QUESTIONS AND
CORRECT ANSWERS (VERIFIED ANSWERS)
PLUS RATIONALES 2026 Q&A | INSTANT
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1. A client with congestive heart failure is prescribed furosemide. The
nurse should monitor which laboratory value most closely?
a. Potassium
b. Sodium
c. Calcium
d. Magnesium
Diuretics like furosemide can cause potassium loss, which may lead to
hypokalemia.
2. The nurse notes a client has slurred speech and unilateral
weakness. Which action should the nurse take first?
a. Start IV fluids
b. Administer prescribed medication
c. Call the healthcare provider immediately
d. Perform range-of-motion exercises
These are signs of a possible stroke; immediate medical intervention is
critical.
3. A client is scheduled for a colonoscopy. Which instruction should
the nurse give regarding diet?
a. Increase fiber the day before
b. Follow a clear liquid diet the day before
,c. Avoid fasting
d. Eat a high-protein meal the night before
Clear liquids prevent obstruction and ensure the colon is clean for
visualization.
4. A client is receiving oxygen at 2 L/min via nasal cannula. Which
finding indicates oxygen therapy is effective?
a. Respiratory rate of 28
b. Cyanosis of lips
c. Oxygen saturation 95%
d. Restlessness
An SpO₂ of 95% indicates adequate oxygenation.
5. A client has type 1 diabetes and blood glucose of 450 mg/dL,
Kussmaul respirations, and fruity breath. The nurse should suspect:
a. Hypoglycemia
b. Diabetic ketoacidosis
c. Hyperosmolar hyperglycemic state
d. Metabolic alkalosis
Ketoacidosis is indicated by hyperglycemia, Kussmaul breathing, and
ketone odor on breath.
6. A nurse is caring for a client with an indwelling urinary catheter.
Which action prevents infection?
a. Disconnect tubing frequently
b. Empty bag once daily
c. Maintain a closed drainage system
d. Irrigate the catheter routinely
Keeping the system closed reduces the risk of introducing bacteria.
7. The nurse is preparing to administer an IM injection. Which site is
safest for a 2 mL injection in an adult?
a. Deltoid
, b. Ventrogluteal
c. Dorsogluteal
d. Abdomen
Ventrogluteal is preferred for larger volumes due to fewer nerves and
blood vessels.
8. A client is on warfarin therapy. Which dietary instruction should the
nurse give?
a. Avoid all vegetables
b. Increase vitamin C intake
c. Maintain consistent intake of vitamin K
d. Take vitamin K supplements daily
Vitamin K affects warfarin’s effectiveness; consistency prevents
fluctuations in INR.
9. A nurse is caring for a client with COPD. Which breathing technique
helps prevent air trapping?
a. Pursed-lip breathing
b. Abdominal breathing
c. Deep sighs
d. Rapid shallow breathing
Pursed-lip breathing prolongs exhalation and reduces air trapping.
10. A client is receiving IV morphine. Which is the priority
assessment?
a. Urinary output
b. Respiratory rate
c. Bowel sounds
d. Skin integrity
Opioids can depress respiration; monitoring is critical.
11. The nurse should place a client with suspected tuberculosis in
which type of isolation?