NR 601 EXAM FINAL REVIEW PACK | TEST BANK QUESTIONS & ANSWERS | AGING ADULT HEALTH, CARDIOVASCULAR, E… EXAM
P R O F E S S I O N A L P R A C T I C E M AT E R I A L S
NR 601 Exam Final Review Pack | Test
Bank Questions & Answers | Aging Adult
Health, Cardiovascular, Endocrine &
Functional Assessment Cases | 2026/2027
Verified Answers Exam Ready With Rationales
103 QUESTIONS
DOCUMENT OVERVIEW
This document offers 103 practice questions with pre-provided correct answers and detailed rationales for
aging adult health and related specialties. It serves as a comprehensive review resource for students
preparing for exams and certifications in these crucial areas. The material is designed for in-depth study and
understanding of complex case scenarios.
CONTENTS
01 Neurological & Cognitive Assessment Q1–Q14
02 Endocrine & Metabolic Disorders Q15–Q37
03 Functional & Holistic Assessment Q38–Q66
04 Cardiovascular Health Q67–Q73
05 Genitourinary & Renal Issues Q74–Q95
06 Pulmonary & Respiratory Care Q96–Q102
07 Aging Adult Health Q103–Q103
E XA M Q U EST I O N S
Q1 QUESTION 1 OF 103
A nurse is assessing a patient admitted with transient neurological deficits, including unilateral weakness and dysarthria, that resolved within 90 minutes. A head
CT scan performed at 2 hours post-symptom onset was unremarkable. Which of the following actions should the nurse anticipate as part of the immediate
diagnostic and treatment plan? (Select all that apply.)
A) Administer aspirin 81 mg orally.
B) Prepare the patient for a carotid duplex ultrasound.
C) Obtain a 12-lead electrocardiogram (ECG).
Page 1
,D) Schedule a continuous electroencephalogram (EEG) for 24 hours.
E) Reassure the patient that the symptoms will not recur.
CORRECT ANSWER
B) Prepare the patient for a carotid duplex ultrasound.
C) Obtain a 12-lead electrocardiogram (ECG).
RATIONALE
Transient ischemic attacks (TIAs) warrant a thorough evaluation for underlying cardiovascular disease and cerebrovascular stenosis to prevent future strokes; cardiac
arrhythmias and carotid artery disease are common etiologies requiring investigation. Aspirin is typically initiated after a diagnosis is confirmed and other contraindications
are ruled out, and an EEG is not indicated for resolving focal neurological deficits without seizure activity.
Q2 QUESTION 2 OF 103
A 68-year-old patient diagnosed with Parkinson's disease presents with a 3-month history of progressively worsening bradykinesia and mild resting tremor in
the left hand, impacting their ability to button shirts. The nurse practitioner considers initiating pharmacologic therapy. Which finding necessitates prompt
initiation of dopaminergic agents?
A) The patient reports a subjective feeling of stiffness in the morning.
B) The patient demonstrates a mild, intermittent resting tremor restricted to the left hand.
C) The patient's activities of daily living, such as dressing and eating, are becoming noticeably more difficult.
D) The patient's spouse notes a slight unsteadiness when the patient walks short distances.
CORRECT ANSWER
C) The patient's activities of daily living, such as dressing and eating, are becoming noticeably more difficult.
RATIONALE
Pharmacological intervention for Parkinson's disease is indicated when motor symptoms interfere with functional ability and quality of life, as evidenced by the patient's
increasing difficulty with ADLs. Mild tremor or gait changes alone do not guarantee the need for medication.
Q3 QUESTION 3 OF 103
A 78-year-old male patient presents to the clinic at 0900 with a sudden onset of left-sided ptosis, dysarthria, and reported episodes of unsteadiness lasting
approximately 2 hours. His initial vital signs are stable. What is the on-call nurse practitioner's highest priority action?
A) Administer 325 mg of aspirin orally.
B) Initiate a 12-lead electrocardiogram and apply oxygen via nasal cannula at 2 L/min.
C) Obtain a capillary blood glucose level and perform a systematic neurological assessment.
D) Arrange for immediate transfer to the nearest comprehensive stroke center via ambulance.
CORRECT ANSWER
D) Arrange for immediate transfer to the nearest comprehensive stroke center via ambulance.
RATIONALE
Acute neurological deficits suggestive of a stroke require rapid evaluation at a specialized facility capable of administering time-sensitive treatments like thrombolytics,
making immediate transfer the highest priority. Other interventions are secondary to establishing definitive care.
Q4 QUESTION 4 OF 103
An 82-year-old female patient with a history of Alzheimer's disease is admitted to the skilled nursing facility. During the morning care routine, the nurse observes
the patient attempting to drink from a hairbrush and then placing a shoe on her head. The patient appears confused when the nurse redirects her. Which nursing
interventions are most appropriate to address the patient's immediate safety and functional needs, considering her presentation of visual agnosia? (Select all
that apply.)
A) Ensure all personal care items are clearly labeled with large print and pictures.
Page 2
,B) Instruct the family to only bring familiar objects from home to reduce confusion.
C) Place food items in easily recognizable containers, such as clear plastic cups.
D) Implement fall precautions and ensure the patient wears non-slip footwear at all times.
E) Provide adaptive utensils and encourage the patient to attempt self-feeding with them.
CORRECT ANSWER
A) Ensure all personal care items are clearly labeled with large print and pictures.
C) Place food items in easily recognizable containers, such as clear plastic cups.
D) Implement fall precautions and ensure the patient wears non-slip footwear at all times.
RATIONALE
Visual agnosia impairs the ability to recognize objects, necessitating environmental modifications like clear labeling and simplified food presentation to promote
independence and safety. Implementing fall precautions is also critical as impaired object recognition can affect gait and balance.
Q5 QUESTION 5 OF 103
A 78-year-old patient with Alzheimer's disease, currently presenting with symptoms of agitation and a flat affect, is being evaluated for pharmacologic
management of depression. The on-call geriatric psychiatrist is reviewing potential treatment options. Which of the following medications would be
contraindicated or require extreme caution due to potential anticholinergic side effects that could exacerbate cognitive impairment in this patient population?
(Select all that apply.)
A) Fluoxetine
B) Mirtazapine
C) Desipramine
D) Amitriptyline
E) Sertraline
CORRECT ANSWER
C) Desipramine
D) Amitriptyline
RATIONALE
Tricyclic antidepressants like desipramine and amitriptyline possess significant anticholinergic properties that can worsen confusion and cognitive deficits in elderly patients
with dementia, making them poor choices for managing comorbid depression. Fluoxetine, sertraline, and mirtazapine are generally considered safer alternatives due to their
more favorable side effect profiles regarding anticholinergic effects.
Q6 QUESTION 6 OF 103
The on-call nurse encounters a 78-year-old patient in the geriatric assessment unit experiencing new-onset hand tremors and reports of feeling "stiff" when
initiating movement. The patient's gait assessment reveals a slow, shuffling pattern. Which cluster of findings most strongly supports a diagnosis of Parkinson's
disease? (Select all that apply.)
A) Resting tremor, cogwheel rigidity, and choreiform movements
B) Bradykinesia, resting tremor, and a shuffling gait
C) Symptoms of dyskinesia, micrographia, and fluctuating cognition
D) Cogwheel rigidity, bradykinesia, and a resting tremor
E) Ankle clonus, intention tremor, and postural instability
F) Resting tremor, cogwheel rigidity, and a slow, unsteady gait
CORRECT ANSWER
B) Bradykinesia, resting tremor, and a shuffling gait
D) Cogwheel rigidity, bradykinesia, and a resting tremor
F) Resting tremor, cogwheel rigidity, and a slow, unsteady gait
Page 3
, RATIONALE
The cardinal motor symptoms of Parkinson's disease include resting tremor, bradykinesia (slowness of movement), and rigidity (often cogwheel); a gait disturbance
characterized by shuffling and unsteadiness is also highly suggestive. Chorea and dyskinesia are typically associated with other movement disorders or medication side
effects, while clonus and intention tremors are indicative of different neurological conditions.
Q7 QUESTION 7 OF 103
A nurse is assessing a 72-year-old male patient admitted with symptoms suggestive of Parkinson's disease, including occasional tremors and a soft, monotonous
voice. The nurse observes the patient attempting to sign a consent form for a procedure scheduled for tomorrow at 0900. The nurse notes the patient's
handwriting is significantly smaller than on previous admissions dated 18 months ago. Which of the following findings would be most consistent with the
patient's evolving neurological condition? (Select all that apply.)
A) Increased velocity of voluntary movements
B) Reduced amplitude of repetitive movements
C) Slower initiation of voluntary movements
D) Accentuated postural reflexes
E) Decreased muscle tone throughout the body
F) Diminished facial expressiveness
CORRECT ANSWER
B) Reduced amplitude of repetitive movements
C) Slower initiation of voluntary movements
F) Diminished facial expressiveness
RATIONALE
Micrographia (smaller handwriting) and bradykinesia (slowness of movement, including impaired initiation) are hallmark motor symptoms of Parkinson's disease; diminished
facial expressiveness also reflects bradykinesia affecting facial muscles.
Q8 QUESTION 8 OF 103
An 82-year-old male patient in the neurology unit presents with new-onset focal seizures characterized by jerking of the right arm and facial twitching. His vital
signs are stable, and his last known well was 12 hours ago. Given that his medical history is significant for hypertension and hyperlipidemia, which of the following
actions should the nurse prioritize? (Select all that apply.)
A) Administer lorazepam 4 mg IV push per protocol for status epilepticus.
B) Initiate a continuous EEG monitoring to evaluate seizure activity.
C) Obtain a STAT non-contrast head CT scan to rule out acute hemorrhage.
D) Administer a loading dose of phenytoin to achieve therapeutic levels.
E) Document the exact timing and characteristics of the witnessed seizure.
F) Increase the dosage of lisinopril to manage the patient's hypertension.
CORRECT ANSWER
B) Initiate a continuous EEG monitoring to evaluate seizure activity.
C) Obtain a STAT non-contrast head CT scan to rule out acute hemorrhage.
E) Document the exact timing and characteristics of the witnessed seizure.
RATIONALE
New-onset seizures in an older adult require immediate investigation to identify the underlying cause, prioritizing diagnostic imaging and continuous monitoring to guide
treatment and rule out emergent conditions like stroke or intracranial bleeding. Accurate documentation of the seizure is also critical for diagnostic purposes.
Q9 QUESTION 9 OF 103
A 78-year-old male patient admitted to the medical-surgical unit on 0800 on October 26th presents with acute confusion, fluctuating attention, and visual
hallucinations. His current medications include lisinopril 10 mg daily and atorvastatin 20 mg daily. Vital signs are stable, and a physical examination reveals no
focal neurological deficits. Which of the following initial nursing actions are most appropriate? (Select all that apply.)
Page 4
P R O F E S S I O N A L P R A C T I C E M AT E R I A L S
NR 601 Exam Final Review Pack | Test
Bank Questions & Answers | Aging Adult
Health, Cardiovascular, Endocrine &
Functional Assessment Cases | 2026/2027
Verified Answers Exam Ready With Rationales
103 QUESTIONS
DOCUMENT OVERVIEW
This document offers 103 practice questions with pre-provided correct answers and detailed rationales for
aging adult health and related specialties. It serves as a comprehensive review resource for students
preparing for exams and certifications in these crucial areas. The material is designed for in-depth study and
understanding of complex case scenarios.
CONTENTS
01 Neurological & Cognitive Assessment Q1–Q14
02 Endocrine & Metabolic Disorders Q15–Q37
03 Functional & Holistic Assessment Q38–Q66
04 Cardiovascular Health Q67–Q73
05 Genitourinary & Renal Issues Q74–Q95
06 Pulmonary & Respiratory Care Q96–Q102
07 Aging Adult Health Q103–Q103
E XA M Q U EST I O N S
Q1 QUESTION 1 OF 103
A nurse is assessing a patient admitted with transient neurological deficits, including unilateral weakness and dysarthria, that resolved within 90 minutes. A head
CT scan performed at 2 hours post-symptom onset was unremarkable. Which of the following actions should the nurse anticipate as part of the immediate
diagnostic and treatment plan? (Select all that apply.)
A) Administer aspirin 81 mg orally.
B) Prepare the patient for a carotid duplex ultrasound.
C) Obtain a 12-lead electrocardiogram (ECG).
Page 1
,D) Schedule a continuous electroencephalogram (EEG) for 24 hours.
E) Reassure the patient that the symptoms will not recur.
CORRECT ANSWER
B) Prepare the patient for a carotid duplex ultrasound.
C) Obtain a 12-lead electrocardiogram (ECG).
RATIONALE
Transient ischemic attacks (TIAs) warrant a thorough evaluation for underlying cardiovascular disease and cerebrovascular stenosis to prevent future strokes; cardiac
arrhythmias and carotid artery disease are common etiologies requiring investigation. Aspirin is typically initiated after a diagnosis is confirmed and other contraindications
are ruled out, and an EEG is not indicated for resolving focal neurological deficits without seizure activity.
Q2 QUESTION 2 OF 103
A 68-year-old patient diagnosed with Parkinson's disease presents with a 3-month history of progressively worsening bradykinesia and mild resting tremor in
the left hand, impacting their ability to button shirts. The nurse practitioner considers initiating pharmacologic therapy. Which finding necessitates prompt
initiation of dopaminergic agents?
A) The patient reports a subjective feeling of stiffness in the morning.
B) The patient demonstrates a mild, intermittent resting tremor restricted to the left hand.
C) The patient's activities of daily living, such as dressing and eating, are becoming noticeably more difficult.
D) The patient's spouse notes a slight unsteadiness when the patient walks short distances.
CORRECT ANSWER
C) The patient's activities of daily living, such as dressing and eating, are becoming noticeably more difficult.
RATIONALE
Pharmacological intervention for Parkinson's disease is indicated when motor symptoms interfere with functional ability and quality of life, as evidenced by the patient's
increasing difficulty with ADLs. Mild tremor or gait changes alone do not guarantee the need for medication.
Q3 QUESTION 3 OF 103
A 78-year-old male patient presents to the clinic at 0900 with a sudden onset of left-sided ptosis, dysarthria, and reported episodes of unsteadiness lasting
approximately 2 hours. His initial vital signs are stable. What is the on-call nurse practitioner's highest priority action?
A) Administer 325 mg of aspirin orally.
B) Initiate a 12-lead electrocardiogram and apply oxygen via nasal cannula at 2 L/min.
C) Obtain a capillary blood glucose level and perform a systematic neurological assessment.
D) Arrange for immediate transfer to the nearest comprehensive stroke center via ambulance.
CORRECT ANSWER
D) Arrange for immediate transfer to the nearest comprehensive stroke center via ambulance.
RATIONALE
Acute neurological deficits suggestive of a stroke require rapid evaluation at a specialized facility capable of administering time-sensitive treatments like thrombolytics,
making immediate transfer the highest priority. Other interventions are secondary to establishing definitive care.
Q4 QUESTION 4 OF 103
An 82-year-old female patient with a history of Alzheimer's disease is admitted to the skilled nursing facility. During the morning care routine, the nurse observes
the patient attempting to drink from a hairbrush and then placing a shoe on her head. The patient appears confused when the nurse redirects her. Which nursing
interventions are most appropriate to address the patient's immediate safety and functional needs, considering her presentation of visual agnosia? (Select all
that apply.)
A) Ensure all personal care items are clearly labeled with large print and pictures.
Page 2
,B) Instruct the family to only bring familiar objects from home to reduce confusion.
C) Place food items in easily recognizable containers, such as clear plastic cups.
D) Implement fall precautions and ensure the patient wears non-slip footwear at all times.
E) Provide adaptive utensils and encourage the patient to attempt self-feeding with them.
CORRECT ANSWER
A) Ensure all personal care items are clearly labeled with large print and pictures.
C) Place food items in easily recognizable containers, such as clear plastic cups.
D) Implement fall precautions and ensure the patient wears non-slip footwear at all times.
RATIONALE
Visual agnosia impairs the ability to recognize objects, necessitating environmental modifications like clear labeling and simplified food presentation to promote
independence and safety. Implementing fall precautions is also critical as impaired object recognition can affect gait and balance.
Q5 QUESTION 5 OF 103
A 78-year-old patient with Alzheimer's disease, currently presenting with symptoms of agitation and a flat affect, is being evaluated for pharmacologic
management of depression. The on-call geriatric psychiatrist is reviewing potential treatment options. Which of the following medications would be
contraindicated or require extreme caution due to potential anticholinergic side effects that could exacerbate cognitive impairment in this patient population?
(Select all that apply.)
A) Fluoxetine
B) Mirtazapine
C) Desipramine
D) Amitriptyline
E) Sertraline
CORRECT ANSWER
C) Desipramine
D) Amitriptyline
RATIONALE
Tricyclic antidepressants like desipramine and amitriptyline possess significant anticholinergic properties that can worsen confusion and cognitive deficits in elderly patients
with dementia, making them poor choices for managing comorbid depression. Fluoxetine, sertraline, and mirtazapine are generally considered safer alternatives due to their
more favorable side effect profiles regarding anticholinergic effects.
Q6 QUESTION 6 OF 103
The on-call nurse encounters a 78-year-old patient in the geriatric assessment unit experiencing new-onset hand tremors and reports of feeling "stiff" when
initiating movement. The patient's gait assessment reveals a slow, shuffling pattern. Which cluster of findings most strongly supports a diagnosis of Parkinson's
disease? (Select all that apply.)
A) Resting tremor, cogwheel rigidity, and choreiform movements
B) Bradykinesia, resting tremor, and a shuffling gait
C) Symptoms of dyskinesia, micrographia, and fluctuating cognition
D) Cogwheel rigidity, bradykinesia, and a resting tremor
E) Ankle clonus, intention tremor, and postural instability
F) Resting tremor, cogwheel rigidity, and a slow, unsteady gait
CORRECT ANSWER
B) Bradykinesia, resting tremor, and a shuffling gait
D) Cogwheel rigidity, bradykinesia, and a resting tremor
F) Resting tremor, cogwheel rigidity, and a slow, unsteady gait
Page 3
, RATIONALE
The cardinal motor symptoms of Parkinson's disease include resting tremor, bradykinesia (slowness of movement), and rigidity (often cogwheel); a gait disturbance
characterized by shuffling and unsteadiness is also highly suggestive. Chorea and dyskinesia are typically associated with other movement disorders or medication side
effects, while clonus and intention tremors are indicative of different neurological conditions.
Q7 QUESTION 7 OF 103
A nurse is assessing a 72-year-old male patient admitted with symptoms suggestive of Parkinson's disease, including occasional tremors and a soft, monotonous
voice. The nurse observes the patient attempting to sign a consent form for a procedure scheduled for tomorrow at 0900. The nurse notes the patient's
handwriting is significantly smaller than on previous admissions dated 18 months ago. Which of the following findings would be most consistent with the
patient's evolving neurological condition? (Select all that apply.)
A) Increased velocity of voluntary movements
B) Reduced amplitude of repetitive movements
C) Slower initiation of voluntary movements
D) Accentuated postural reflexes
E) Decreased muscle tone throughout the body
F) Diminished facial expressiveness
CORRECT ANSWER
B) Reduced amplitude of repetitive movements
C) Slower initiation of voluntary movements
F) Diminished facial expressiveness
RATIONALE
Micrographia (smaller handwriting) and bradykinesia (slowness of movement, including impaired initiation) are hallmark motor symptoms of Parkinson's disease; diminished
facial expressiveness also reflects bradykinesia affecting facial muscles.
Q8 QUESTION 8 OF 103
An 82-year-old male patient in the neurology unit presents with new-onset focal seizures characterized by jerking of the right arm and facial twitching. His vital
signs are stable, and his last known well was 12 hours ago. Given that his medical history is significant for hypertension and hyperlipidemia, which of the following
actions should the nurse prioritize? (Select all that apply.)
A) Administer lorazepam 4 mg IV push per protocol for status epilepticus.
B) Initiate a continuous EEG monitoring to evaluate seizure activity.
C) Obtain a STAT non-contrast head CT scan to rule out acute hemorrhage.
D) Administer a loading dose of phenytoin to achieve therapeutic levels.
E) Document the exact timing and characteristics of the witnessed seizure.
F) Increase the dosage of lisinopril to manage the patient's hypertension.
CORRECT ANSWER
B) Initiate a continuous EEG monitoring to evaluate seizure activity.
C) Obtain a STAT non-contrast head CT scan to rule out acute hemorrhage.
E) Document the exact timing and characteristics of the witnessed seizure.
RATIONALE
New-onset seizures in an older adult require immediate investigation to identify the underlying cause, prioritizing diagnostic imaging and continuous monitoring to guide
treatment and rule out emergent conditions like stroke or intracranial bleeding. Accurate documentation of the seizure is also critical for diagnostic purposes.
Q9 QUESTION 9 OF 103
A 78-year-old male patient admitted to the medical-surgical unit on 0800 on October 26th presents with acute confusion, fluctuating attention, and visual
hallucinations. His current medications include lisinopril 10 mg daily and atorvastatin 20 mg daily. Vital signs are stable, and a physical examination reveals no
focal neurological deficits. Which of the following initial nursing actions are most appropriate? (Select all that apply.)
Page 4
