Professional Nursing Practice (2026) Q&A
1. A charge nurse seeks input from staff before making a final decision about
unit assignments. This is an example of which leadership style?
A) Autocratic
B) Democratic (participative)
C) Laissez-faire
D) Transactional
Correct Answer: Democratic (participative)
Rationale: Democratic leadership involves including team members in
decision‑making while the leader retains final authority. Autocratic is directive,
laissez‑faire is hands‑off, and transactional is based on rewards.
2. The nurse is prioritizing care for four clients. Which client should be seen
first?
A) A client with pneumonia whose oxygen saturation is 94% on room air
B) A client with a new diagnosis of diabetes and a blood glucose of 220 mg/dL
C) A client with a chest tube reporting sudden severe pain at the insertion site
D) A postoperative client who has not had a bowel movement in 2 days
Correct Answer: A client with a chest tube reporting sudden severe pain at the
insertion site
,Rationale: Sudden pain at a chest tube site could signal dislodgement, tension
pneumothorax, or infection, threatening airway/breathing. ABC prioritization
makes this the most urgent.
3. Which task can the registered nurse safely delegate to unlicensed assistive
personnel (UAP)?
A) Assessing a client's pain level
B) Performing a sterile dressing change
C) Measuring and recording vital signs
D) Providing discharge teaching about wound care
Correct Answer: Measuring and recording vital signs
Rationale: UAPs can perform routine, standardized tasks such as measuring vital
signs. Assessment, sterile procedures, and teaching require the clinical
judgment of a licensed nurse.
4. A client is scheduled for electroconvulsive therapy and asks, “Can I refuse the
treatment even though I signed the consent?” What is the nurse's best
response?
A) “You should discuss this with your family first.”
B) “Having this treatment can be scary, but it will help you.”
C) “Let’s talk with your doctor before you decide.”
D) “You have the right to refuse treatment at any time.”
Correct Answer: “You have the right to refuse treatment at any time.”
, Rationale: Informed consent can be revoked at any time, even after signing. The
patient's autonomy must be respected. The nurse should affirm this right
without coercion.
5. The nurse is reviewing informed consent principles. Which statement
indicates a correct understanding?
A) Consent cannot be revoked once signed.
B) The nurse is responsible for explaining risks and benefits.
C) Consent forms must be signed when the client is competent.
D) A sedated client can provide informed consent.
Correct Answer: Consent forms must be signed when the client is competent.
Rationale: Valid informed consent requires the client to be alert, oriented, and
able to make decisions. The provider explains the procedure; the nurse
witnesses the signature.
6. A client with hyperthyroidism develops a temperature of 101°F, heart rate
140 bpm, and agitation. The nurse identifies these findings as:
A) Myxedema coma
B) Thyroid storm
C) Addisonian crisis
D) Hypoglycemia
Correct Answer: Thyroid storm