Understanding Multiple Choice Questions in Nursing
Multiple choice questions (MCQs) are a common method of assessment in nursing education. They evaluate a wide range of knowledge, from basic concepts to advanced clinical skills. Here, we explore some key areas through sample questions and answers.Basic Nursing Care
1. Which of the following is the most important step in preventing the spread of infection?
- A) Using personal protective equipment
- B) Administering antibiotics
- C) Hand hygiene
- D) Isolating infected patientsHand hygiene is the cornerstone of infection control, minimizing the risk of transmission.
Pharmacology
2. A patient is prescribed warfarin. Which of the following should be regularly monitored?
- A) Blood glucose levels
- B) INR (International Normalized Ratio)
- C) Serum potassium levels
- D) Blood pressureMonitoring INR is crucial for patients on warfarin to ensure therapeutic levels and avoid bleeding complications.
Patient Assessment
3. During a physical assessment, a nurse notes that a patient has cyanosis. What does this indicate?
- A) Hypoxia
- B) Hyperglycemia
- C) Dehydration
- D) InfectionCyanosis, a bluish discoloration of the skin, indicates hypoxia, or low oxygen levels in the blood.
Cardiovascular System
4. Which of the following symptoms is most characteristic of left-sided heart failure?
- A) Peripheral edema
- B) Pulmonary congestion
- C) Hepatomegaly
- D) Jugular vein distentionPulmonary congestion is a hallmark of left-sided heart failure due to the backflow of blood into the lungs.
Pain Management
5. When assessing pain in a non-verbal patient, which tool is most appropriate?
- A) Numeric rating scale
- B) Verbal descriptor scale
- C) FLACC scale (Face, Legs, Activity, Cry, Consolability)
- D) Visual analog scaleThe FLACC scale is designed to assess pain in patients who are unable to communicate their pain verbally.
Endocrine Disorders
6. A patient with diabetes mellitus presents with polyuria, polydipsia, and polyphagia. What type of diabetes are these classic symptoms associated with?
- A) Type 1 diabetes
- B) Type 2 diabetes
- C) Gestational diabetes
- D) Both Type 1 and Type 2 diabetesThese symptoms are common in both Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes, indicating hyperglycemia.
Renal System
7. Which of the following is a primary function of the kidneys?
- A) Regulation of blood pressure
- B) Production of insulin
- C) Synthesis of hemoglobin
- D) Digestion of fatsThe kidneys play a crucial role in regulating blood pressure through the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system.
Neurological Assessment
8. The Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) is used to assess:
- A) Respiratory function
- B) Level of consciousness
- C) Cardiac output
- D) Kidney functionThe GCS evaluates a patient's level of consciousness based on eye, verbal, and motor responses.
Wound Care
9. A patient has a stage III pressure ulcer. What does this indicate?
- A) Full-thickness skin loss
- B) Partial-thickness skin loss
- C) Intact skin
- D) Exposed bone, tendon, or muscleStage III pressure ulcers involve full-thickness skin loss, potentially extending into the subcutaneous tissue.
Legal and Ethical Issues
10. The principle of non-maleficence in nursing ethics means:
- A) Promoting patient autonomy
- B) Ensuring fairness in care
- C) Doing no harm
- D) Respecting patient confidentialityNon-maleficence is the ethical principle of doing no harm to patients.
Conclusion
Understanding and mastering these multiple choice questions can enhance a nurse's proficiency and confidence in various aspects of patient care. Regular practice and review of such questions can prepare nurses for both academic exams and practical, real-world scenarios.
