PROFESSIONAL PRACTICE

1. A nurse tells a client that she will come back to assess the client's
pain in 10 minutes. When the nurse returns in 10 minutes, which
aspect of the therapeutic relationship is the nurse developing?
A. Empathy.
B. Sympathy.
C. Trust.
D. Closure.
Answer: C
Rationale: When the nurse repeatedly follows through on a commitment
made to a client, it fosters trust within the therapeutic relationship.
Trust is a foundational quality within the therapeutic nurse-client
relationship.

2. An individual has been advised to stop smoking. Which of the

following statements by the nurse is considered therapeutic?
A. "I know how you feel; I had to stop smoking when I was pregnant."
B. "Stopping 'cold turkey' will give you the best chance for success."
C. "I can offer you some information outlining a variety of ways to
stop smoking."
D. "The most effective way to stop smoking is the nicotine patch; let
me ask the doctor to order it for you."
Answer: C
Rationale: Every nurse has a responsibility to practice in a manner
that promotes the patient's right to choose.

3. A nurse is working in an occupational health clinic within a

manufacturing company. When asked by the human resources
manager for the names of employees who visited the nurse in the past
24 hours, the nurse should do which of the following?
A. Refer the human resources manager to the occupational health
manager.
B. Refuse and remind the manager that he or she is bound by
confidentiality.
C. Give the names to the manager because he is the nurse’s
superior.
D. Provide the names because this is a normal practice for this
organization.
Answer: B
Rationale: It is the responsibility of the nurse to ensure that patient's
confidentiality is held in utmost regard. In this scenario, the human
resources manager has no authority or right to access confidential
medical information. The nurse can summarize for the manager t he
types of injuries or illnesses cared for in the clinic to identify trends and
for risk management purposes, but personal information is treated as
confidential.

Case Study: Jessica Smith is 20 years old and has been diagnosed with
depression. She is admitted to the mental health unit, where she is
encouraged to participate in group sessions. Questions 4 to 6

4. John Stewart, RN, is assigned to work with Jessica. Jessica asks John
if he is married or has a girlfriend. John responds by saying, "I am
curious what made you ask this question; however, what is important is
how you are feeling today." John's response would be considered which
of the following?
A. Inappropriate because Jessica was just interested in John's
personal situation.
B. Inappropriate because John should have answered to establish
a therapeutic relationship.
C. Appropriate because John is neither married nor has a girlfriend.
D. Appropriate because the focus of a therapeutic relationship is on
the client.
Answer: D
Rationale: Every nurse has a responsibility to practice in a manner
that is consistent with providing safe, competent, and ethical care. If
John had shared personal information with Jessica, he would have
crossed the boundary of a therapeutic relationship and changed the
focus of the discussion from a client focus to a social focus. It is very
important in all areas oi' care, particularly in the mental health setting,
that the relationship between the nurse and the patient has very clear
boundaries and a client focus.

5. During the night shift. Jessica tells a nurse that she is going to kill
herself, and she is placed on constant observation. When she asks to
use the toilet, the nurse follows her into the bathroom. Jessica says, "I
don't need you to follow me into the bathroom. Give me some space."
Which of the following statements by the nurse would be considered
the most appropriate?
A. "You are right. I don't need to come into the bathroom with you. I
will wait outside the door."
B. "I must stay with you until we are sure you are not going to hurt
yourself."
C. "If you think you are going to be alright, I will check on you in 5
minutes."
D. "I can't imagine there is anything dangerous in the bathroom, so
go ahead, and I will wait for you in the hallway."
Answer: B
Rationale: Jessica is-depressed and has expressed suicidal thoughts.
She has been placed on constant supervision as required by the unit
policy. Staying with Jessica, even when she is in the bathroom,
demonstrates an understanding of constant observation. Staying with
the patient also demonstrates exercising professional judgment
regarding the policy and the situation.

6. Jessica is ready to be discharged and tells the nurse, "It would be

really good for me if we could meet for coffee if I am feeling depressed
again." Which of the following statements indicates (hat the nurse
understands the boundaries of the therapeutic relationship?
A. "That would be okay as long as we go to a public place. Where
would you like to meet?"
B. "Before you leave the hospital I will make sure you have the
information about the crisis centre."
C. "We could go to the gym together. Exercise can be very therapeutic
for patients experiencing depression.”
D. “I often meet with people after they are discharged. Sometimes it is
difficult to deal with situations after you leave the hospital.
Answer: B
Rationale: The nurse realizes that in addition to crossing boundaries
within the therapeutic relationship if they meet for coffee, it would not be
consistent with promoting health and wellness. Providing the number for
the crisis worker at the crisis centre is an example of promoting a
healthy strategy if Jessica believes she is becoming depressed again.

7. Carol is an RN working an evening shift on an intake unit of a long-

term care facility. She must ask one of the unregulated health care
workers (UHCWs) to perform a treatment on a resident. What must the
RN ensure before delegating a task to a URCW?
A. The worker has the appropriate knowledge and skills.
B. The worker has practiced the task previously.
C. The worker is supervised during the performance of the task.
D. The worker will be guided through the task by another nurse.
Answer: A
Rationale: The RN is accountable for her actions and for the delegation
of tasks to UHCWs. The RN delegates tasks to UHCWs consistent with
their level of expertise, education, job description, agency policy,
legislation, and personal need. If the RN is confident that the UHCW has
the appropriate knowledge regarding the task, the task can be delegated.

8. Angela, an RN, overhears another RN, Carol, making plans to meet a

hospitalized client "for a drink" after the client has been discharged.
What should Angela do?
A. Tell the client that he should not meet the nurse socially.
B. Report the conversation to the nurse manager of your unit.
 C. Encourage interaction with the client after discharge.
D. Discuss the overheard conversation directly with Carol.
Answer: D
Rationale: Planning to meet a client for a social event while he is still a
patient could blur the boundaries of the therapeutic relationship, which
may result in an unhealthy outcome for the client. Angela should take
the second nurse aside and point out what her behaviour is
inappropriate and not in the client's best interest.

9. Professional regulations and laws that govern nursing practice are in

place for which of the following reasons?
A. To limit the number of nurses in practice.
B. To ensure that nurses are in good moral standing.
C. To protect the safety of the public.
D. To ensure that enough new nurses are available.
Answer: C
Rationale: Provincial and territorial governing bodies, profe5sional
regulations, and laws are in place to protect the public by ensuring that
nurses are accountable for safe, competent, and ethical nursing practice.

10. After the death of a patient, the nurse needs to shroud the body.
Which of the following reflects the most appropriate time to do this?
A. Before the family enters the room and sees the body.
B. After the family has had time with the body.
C. After the body has been transferred to the morgue.
D. As quickly as possible to accommodate the next admission.
Answer: B
Rationale: Every nurse has a responsibility to practice in a manner
that promotes the patient’s and family’s right to dignity. Waiting until
the family has had an opportunity to spend some time with the deceased
demonstrates respect and dignity.

11. A nurse offers to gather a basin of warm water for Mrs. Jones'
morning wash. Mrs. Jones refuses
A. "I will make sure this is noted on your chart to alert the evening
staff."
B. "It is hospital policy that all patients bathe in the morning."
C. "It is unlikely that the nurses will have time to help you shower
tonight."
D. "I am sure you will feel better if you have a bath now."
Answer: A
Rationale: Every nurse has a responsibility to practice in a manner
that promotes the patient's right to choose. There is no reason why the
patient could not have a shower in the evening if he or she preferred it
over a basin bath in the morning. Allowing choice promotes
independence and self-efficacy and contributes to a self-care model
adopted in many settings. Placing the information on the chart allows for
communication of this client request among staff on all shifts.

12. A nurse enters information on a client’s chart but then realizes that a
mistake has been made. The appropriate steps in correcting the entry
error would be which of the following?
A. Use correction fluid to cover the-mistake and write the correct
information over top.
B. Erase the entry and write the correct information in the appropriate
place.
C. Blacken out the entry with a marker and add the correct data after
it.
D. Draw a line through the incorrect entry, date and initial it, and
follow it with the correct data.
Answer: D
Rationale: Patient records are legal documents, so entries must not be
erased, obliterated, or distorted in anyway. Incorrect entries should have
a single line placed through them and then be dated, timed, and
initialled. The correct entry should be placed in the next available space.
By following these steps, the nurse maintains clear, concise, accurate,
and timely documentation.

13. A nurse is caring for a client who refuses further palliative surgery.
The nurse understands which of the following?
A. The client has a right to make this choice about his or her
treatment.
B. The family should be encouraged to make the decision for the
client.
C. The nurse should discuss with the client why the surgery is
necessary.
D. The physician should make this decision on behalf of the client.
Answer: A
Rationale: Every nurse has a responsibility to practice in a manner that
promotes the patient's right to choose. If the patient is competent and
capable of making his or her own decisions, he or she should be allowed
to do so.

14. A nurse is working in a community clinic and is required to

administer a medication to a patient. The nurse is not familiar with the
medication because she has never administered it before. What is the
best step for the nurse to take before giving this medication to the
patient?
 A. Administer the medication.
B. Ask the other nurse in the clinic for some information about the
drug.
C. Consult the Compendium of Pharmaceuticals and Specialties (CPS)
or another credible pharmacology resource.
D. Ask another nurse to administer the medication.
Answer: C
Rationale: Nurses have a responsibility to recognize the limitations of
their own competence and must seek assistance when necessary. It
would be unsafe to administer a medication that is unfamiliar to the
nurse. The CPS or a pharmacist would be appropriate resources.

15. An RN is working in the "float pool" at a local hospital. The nurse is

assigned to the surgical unit and is assigned to look after an individual
with a gastrostomy tube in place. The nurse has no administered
medication into a gastrostomy tube before. What should the nurse do?
A. Refuse the assignment of caring for this individual.
B. Contact the nurse educator for all inservice and support.
C. Ask another nurse to administer the medication for this shift.
D. Give the medication by mouth to avoid using the tube.
Answer: B
Rationale: Nurses have the responsibility to recognize their limitations
and to seek assistance when necessary. In this case, the nurse had not
practiced this skill before even though it is a skill within the scope of
practice of an RN. The nurse should contact the nurse educator for an
inservice and support so the client can receive the medication on time
and safely.

16. Abby Jones, RN, has been reviewing research focusing on the
benefits of hand washing in preventing the spread of microorganisms.
Abby also observes a number of health care workers who are not
washing their hands between patient contact. Abby wants to initiate a
change in practice. Which of the following should she do?
A. Develop a poster and pamphlet to be used at the sinks on each
unit to promote hand washing.
B. Report the lack of hand washing to the local Medical Officer of
Health for further follow-up.
C. Have a discussion about hand washing with fellow nurses
during the morning coffee break.
D. Monitor to ensure that all staff consistently wash their hands
between each patient contact.
Answer: A
Rationale: Abby has read and critiqued the evidence-based literature
and can now use the research results to initiate changes in practice.
Using posters and pamphlets is a good method to promote awareness
regarding the importance of hand washing between client contacts.
Case Study: The nurse manager on a surgical unit is holding a meeting
with the nursing team to discuss management's decision to reduce
staffing on the unit. During the discussion, one of the staff nurses
stands up and yells at the nurse manager, using profanity and
threatening “to take this decision further.” Questions 77 to 79

17. To defuse this situation, which of the following would be the best
step for the nurse manager to take?
A. Tell the nurse that she is suspended for her behaviour.
B. Call a break in the meeting and talk to the nurse privately.
C. Ask the rest of the staff if they are also feeling the same way.
D. Try to defuse the situation by telling the nurse to act
professionally.
Answer: B
Rationale: When an individual is verbally acting out and others are
present, it is advisable to isolate the acting-out individual by either
removing him or her from the audience or removing the audience. By
doing this, it gives the acting-out individual an opportunity to regain
control of rational thinking without embarrassment in front of peers. It
also avoids the audience from encouraging or coaching the individual
and escalating the situation further.

18. The nurse manager speaks to the nurse privately in her office. The
nurse is still speaking to the manager with a raised voice. The manager
realizes she must set some limits on this nurse’s behaviour. Which of
the following statements would indicate that the manager can effectively
set limits?
A. "Settle down or I will call someone in and take you out of the
office."
B. "Start acting professionally or things will be a lot worse for you."
C. "That is enough or I will have you escorted out of the building."
D. "Please lower your voice or you will not be able to return to the
meeting."
Answer: D
Rationale: When setting limits on behaviour, it is important to be
clear about which behaviour you are addressing. It is important to tell
the acting-out person what the consequences of not changing the
behaviour will be. The consequences need to be reasonable,
enforceable and consistent.

19. The nurse manager knows that setting limits on unacceptable

behaviour should include consequences that are appropriate,
enforceable, and which of the following?'
A. Consistent.
 B. Courteous.
C. Concurrent.
D. Consensual.
Answer: A
Rationale: To be effective, limits that are set on unacceptable behaviour
should be consistent and should be all of the qualities mentioned in the
stem of the question.

20. Emily and Irene are both RNs working the night shift on a medical
unit. Emily completes her initial shift assessment on the patients
assigned to her care. An hour later, Irene finds Emily asleep in the
lounge. Emily remains asleep for the next 4 hours and then wakes up to
do her patient rounds. What should Irene do in this situation?
A. Cover for Emily by assessing her patients on an hourly basis.
B. Nothing; Emily's patients were asleep and did not call for
assistance.
C. Discuss the situation with Emily, including the safety
implications of her sleeping.
D. Ask the nurse on the day shift to report the situation to the nurse
manager.
Answer: C
Rationale: Irene has a responsibility to immediately discuss this
behaviour and its safety implications with Emily. Emily’s behaviour can
be interpreted both as abandoning her patients and as incompetence. If
Emily did not change her behaviour, then Irene would be obligated to
tell Emily that she must report her to the supervisor. The supervisor
will keep a record of this incident for further reference. Reporting the
incident to the supervisor will ensure that Irene is excluded from
liability if complaints are made.

21. Andrew, an RN, is employed by a community nursing service and

is scheduled for a daily visit to Mr. H. for blood pressure check.
Andrew is very busy and is running late, so he decides to skip the visit
to Mr. H. He bases this decision on the rationale that the patient's
blood pressure was normal the previous day. Which of the following
best describes Andrew's decision?
A. Inappropriate because it would be considered neglect of duty.
B. Appropriate because it would be considered a knowledgeable
assessment of the client's situation.
C. Inappropriate because it would be considered client abuse.
D. Appropriate because it would be considered effective prioritizing of
his workload for the day.
Answer: A
Rationale: Andrew was scheduled to visit the client, and the client
expected the visit, as did the agency that Andrew works for. Not
attending to the client would be inappropriate and would constitute
neglect.
22. Sylvia, RN, and Ralph, RPN (Registered Practical Nurse), are team
nursing on a surgical unit. While Ralph is on supper break, Sylvia is
called by one of his patients. The patient is complaining of incisional
pain that is rated as 8 out of 10 on the pain scale. Sylvia checks the
client's chart and notes that Ralph recorded giving the client morphine
1 hour earlier. This same scenario has occurred four times over the
past three shifts that Sylvia has worked with Ralph. What should Sylvia
do first in this situation?
A. Report the situation to the immediate supervisor.
B. Check the records of other patients Ralph has looked after.
C. Wait and see if it happens again.
D. Notify the provincial regulating body for RPNs.
Answer: A
Rationale: Sylvia has a responsibility to report to the supervisor her
suspicion and Ralph is not administering the medication to the client.
The supervisor should discuss the concerns with Ralph and determine
if Ralph needs assistance with his drug addiction. Ralph’s clients need
their pain medications, and this issue needs to be addressed as well.

23. Roger is an RN working in the emergency department. As per

hospital policy, all staff members in the department are encouraged to
wear uniforms provided by the hospital, which are referred to as
"greens." Roger is often addressed by patients as "doctor." Roger does not
correct this misperception. What should Roger's response be to being
called" doctor" by the' patients?
A. Nothing; he still provides excellent nursing care.
B. Nothing; patients just get confused when. they see different
caregivers.
C. He should wear a name tag to correct the misperception.
D. He should ask the patients to refer to him as Roger
Answer: C
Rationale: All nurses must identify and present themselves as nurses,
regardless of whether they are Registered Nurses, Registered Practical
Nurses, or Nursing Attendants. Allowing clients to believe he is a doctor
means Ralph is misrepresenting his scope of practice and professional
designation.

24. When assessing if a procedural risk to a client is justified, the

ethical principle underlying the dilemma is known as which of the
following?
A. Nonmaleficence.
B. Informed consent.
C. Self-determination.
D. Pro-choice.
Answer: A
Rationale: Nonmaleficence is the principle of creating no harm. It refers
to preventing or minimizing harm to an individual.
25. Two nurses are talking about a specific client in the hospital
cafeteria. These nurses are at risk of being accused of all of the
following except:
A. Breach of confidentiality.
B. Gross incompetence.
C. Professional misconduct.
D. Behaviour unbecoming of the profession.
Answer: B
Rationale: Speaking about a client in a public setting outside of the
professional environment is considered a breach of confidentiality. A
beach of confidentiality is considered professional misconduct and
behaviour unbecoming of the profession.

26. On a busy evening shift, the nurse manager of the trauma unit is
short staffed and must triage between two people involved in a motor
vehicle accident. One is a young mother, and the other is the driver, who
was reportedly drunk and hit the other patient. Which of the following is
an accurate reflect
ion of this scenario?
A. The driver should be treated first to confirm intoxication.
B. Drunk drivers who cause an accident should wait until the people
they hurt are treated.
C. The nurse must treat each client equally without prejudice.
D. The woman was not drinking, so she should be treated first.
Answer: C
Rationale: The nurse make a decision based on the needs of each client,
not on personal values or on an opinion that is based on personal
judgment of the client or client’s actions.

27. A visitor who is visiting her husband on your nursing unit asks the
nurse about another patient on the unit, who happens to be her friend.
The visitor states that she saw this patient’s name on the computer
screen that another nurse was using at the desk. What should you do?
A. Tell the visitor that the friend is a patient on the unit but do not
disclose any further information.
B. Discuss the matter with the other nurse, reminding him or her not
to leave client information in view of visitors.
C. Tell the visitor that she should not read information that is
confidential and then notify security.
D. Ask the friend to come to the client’s room to meet with the wife
after you are finished administering medications.
Answer: B
Rationale: Leaving personal formation in view of another person is a
breach of confidentially. The nurse should approach the nurse at the
computer and inform him or her of the incident.

28. A nurse's niece is unexpectedly admitted to the pediatric unit of

the hospital where the nurse works. The nurse is working in the
emergency department and accesses her niece's computer chart.
When telling a coworker what she is doing, the coworker's best
response would be?
A. "That is very caring of you to follow up on your niece's
treatment."
B. "Did you realize that accessing her chart is a breach of
confidentiality?"
C. "I have a pediatric background; 1 can tell you more about her
diagnosis."
D. "I would be interested in hearing how her treatment progresses
because her condition is unique."
Answer: B
Rationale: Accessing medical records of clients that are not assigned to
the nurse or for which the nurse has no professional reason to access is
considered a breach of confidentiality.

29. Cameron has been admitted to the intensive care unit after
decompression of a cervical fracture. The nurses are concerned that as
Cameron begins to wake up, he may try to pull out his endotracheal
tube. The nurses decide to apply wrist restraints to Cameron’s hands
until he is alert and the tube Is removed. What must the nurses do
before applying the wrist restraints?
A. Obtain consent from Cameron's next of kin.
B. Nothing; this is a nursing decision.
C. Try using elbow restraints because they are more effective.
D. Discuss the decision with the physiotherapist.
Answer: A
Rationale: Before applying restraints, the nurse must obtain consent
from the next of kin until the client is able to give consent himself.

30. Mrs. Brown is living in a long-term care facility. Over the past few
weeks, she has become increasingly unsteady on her feet. The nurses are
worried that Mrs. Brown is going to climb out of bed and fall. Which of
the following DO NOT comply with a least restraint policy?
A. Placing Mrs. Brown in a bed with a bed alarm.
B. Providing a bed that is low to the floor.
 C. Raising one bed rail to offer stabilization when standing.
D. Raising all side rails while Mrs. Brown is in bed.
Answer: D
Rationale: Raising al side rails on the bed would be considered a
restraint and may contribute to greater risk of a fall if the patient climbs
out of bed.

31. John, RN, is a visiting home nurse. Re has been asked to transfer
the care of his client with a tracheotomy to an unregulated health care
worker (DRCW). What should John do before transferring the care?
A. Ensure that the DRCW has the knowledge to care for the
client.
B. Nothing; the DRCW should know what to do.
C. Ask the client if he or she is comfortable with the transfer of
care to the DRCW.
D. Contact the physician and clarify the orders written for this client.
Answer: A
Rationale: When delegating tasks to a DHCW, the RN must be sure
that the individual has the knowledge to perform the task or provide
the care to the client.

32. An RN working nights with another nurse notices that the other
nurse is charting vital signs that she did not actually take on her
patients. What should the nurse observing this situation do first?
A. Discuss the observations with the other nurse.
B. Nothing; it is not her place to report this behaviour
C. Notify the union steward representing the nursing employees.
D. Obtain the patients' vital signs for the other nurse.
Answer: A
Rationale: The first action one would take would be to discuss what was
witnessed with the other nurse, expressing concern that this behaviour
is unethical, unprofessional, and illegal. The nurse manager should be
notified so he or she can follow up with the nurse. Documenting on a
legal document vital signs that were not actually taken is illegal and
would result in professional misconduct. Additionally, the clients’ health
status and safety are concerns if their vital signs have not been assessed
during the shift.

33. Which of the following should happen in this case?

A. The patient should be resuscitated if he has a respiratory
arrest.
B. The patient should be treated with antibiotics for his
 pneumonia.
C. The wishes of his family should be followed.
D. Pharmacologic intervention should not be initiated.
Answer: B
Rationale: The patient has signed a document indicating his wish
not to be resuscitated. Treating the patient's pneumonia with
antibiotics would not be considered a resuscitation measure.

34. On morning rounds, the nurse finds Mr. Edwards without vital
signs. What should the nurse do?
A. Notify the physician that the patient has no vital signs.
B. Begin CPR and call for an ambulance.
C. Call the supervisor for further directions.
D. Go to the desk and review the patient’s chart to determine his
resuscitation status.
Answer: A
Rationale: The patient has signed a document indicating his wish
not to be resuscitated. The nurse should be aware of the resident's
do not resuscitate (DNR) status and should not need to go to the
desk to confirm this. This would delay the initiation of CPR if it
were to be carried out. The nurse should notify the physician so he
or she can pronounce the death and notify the family.

35. An RN gives a client 0.25 mg of digoxin instead of the prescribed

dose of 0.125 mg. What should she do?
A. Give the other 0.125 mg as soon as possible.
B. Nothing; the dose will not make a significant difference.
C. Assess the patient and notify the doctor.
D. Hold the next dose to make sure the amount balances.
Answer: C
Rationale: This is a medication error. The priority is to assess the
patient and then call the physician to advise him or her of the error
and seek further direction from the physician.

36. An RN conducting her first shift assessment notes that the

patient has D5W hanging in the IV bag instead of 0.9% saline,
which was ordered by the physician. What should the RN do first?
A. Slow the D5W to KVO (keep vein open) and call the physician.
B. Remove the D5W.and hang 0.9% saline only.
C. Leave the D5W running because it is similar to 0.9% saline.
D. Report error to physician and clarify IV solution ordered.
Answer: A
Rationale: This could be a medication error if the wrong IV is
running. If the IV order has been changed but not transcribed
appropriately, the nurse needs to clarify what the patient should be
receiving. Slowing the IV to KVO will allow the nurse time to clarify
the order without losing the site or giving a large amount of
solution.

37. Mr. Ralph has been prescribed a narcotic analgesic to be given

around the clock for his cancer-related pain. He is competent and
has actively been involved in decisions regarding his care. What
should the nurse do when Mr. Ralph refuses his next dose?
A. Try to persuade him to take the medication as ordered by the
doctor.
B. Ensure that he understands the rationale for taking the
medication as ordered.
C. Ask his wife to hold his hands while you put the pull under his
tongue.
D. Document his choice and reassess his pain in 1 hour.
Answer: D
Rationale: Mr. Ralph has the right to choose whether he wants the
medication. The nurse should assess the patient's pain on a regular
basis and educate Mr. Ralph that taking the medication before the
pain gets out of control will be a better pain management plan. Also,
the nurse should try to determine Mr. Ralph's reason for not
wanting the medication (e.g., side effects, fear of falling asleep and
not waking) other than choice.

38. Mr. Green is discharged after a brief stay on the surgical unit.
He hands his nurse a box of chocolates and says, "These are for
you." Which statement demonstrates the nurse's understanding of
accepting gifts from a client?
A. "Thank you. I will enjoy these with my husband when I get
home."
B. "Thank you. I will take them to the lounge to share with all
the staff."
C. "Although I would enjoy them, I cannot accept any gifts
from patients."
D. "We ask our client for cookies rather than chocolates
because they last longer."
Answer: B
Rationale: A box of chocolates would be considered an appropriate
gift for the care given, and refusing the gift might have a negative
effect on the client. Sharing the gift with all the staff involved with
the patient's care would also be appropriate because others may
have also been involved in the care provided 10 Mr. Green during
his hospitalization.

39. A nurse working on a medical floor observes another nurse

crushing her patient's pills and mixing them in food that is going to
be fed to her patient by a nursing student. What should the nurse
do?
A. Congratulate the nurse for being so innovative in
medication administration.
B. Discuss with the nurse that she needs to observe her patients
taking their medications.
C. Discuss with the student that he should be signing for the
medications given.
D. Nothing; this is routine practice for patients who have
difficulty swallowing pills.
Answer: B
Rationale: The nurse administering the medication is responsible
for signing that he or she observed the client actually take the
medication. Having the nursing student administer the medication
would be inappropriate. The patient should be aware that he or she
is being given medication, so hiding the pills in food would be
inappropriate because the patient would not know they are there.

40. A 70-year-old man is admitted unconscious to the emergency

department with a ruptured abdominal aortic aneurysm. No family
members are present, and the surgeon instructs the staff to take the
client directly to the operating room for life saving surgery. Which
of the following actions should the nurse take regarding informed
consent?
A. Take the client to the operating room for surgery without
informed consent.
B. Keep the patient in the emergency department until the
family is contacted.
C. Call the nursing supervisor and ask that the hospital lawyer
be contacted.
D. Contact the hospital chaplain so he can sign the consent on
the client's behalf.
Answer: A
Rationale: All attempts should be made to contact the family, but
delaying life-saving surgery is not an option. The surgeon can
perform surgery without consent if there is a risk of loss of life or
limb if the surgery is not performed. The nurse should take the
client to the operating room.

41. The doctor orders a medication for which the patient is allergic. The
nurse places a call to the physician, but the call is not returned before
the first dose is due. Which of the following is the appropriate next step
the nurse should take in this situation?
A. Notify the nursing supervisor of the situation.
B. Give the medication as ordered by the doctor.
 C. Hold the medication and wait to speak to the physician.
D. Call the pharmacist and discuss the patient’s allergies.
Answer: A
Rationale: The nurse should notify the supervisor of the situation. The
patient should not be disadvantaged by the fact that he or she is not
receiving medication that is needed. The physician has not returned the
nurse's telephone call, and the supervisor needs to assist and support
the nurse. Failing to give the medication or giving a medication to which
the patient is allergic would be a medication error. By notifying the
supervisor, the nurse will be supported in the decision not to administer
the medication.

42. The RN team leader observes a nurse administering a dose of

dimenhydrinate (Gravol) IM to another nurse. The medication is stocked
on' the medication cart. What is the team leader's best first response to
this situation?
A. Notify the nurse manager of their observation.
B. Nothing; dimenhydrinate is a stock medication.
C. Approach the nurses individually before going to the manager.
D. Suggest they self-administer dimenhydrinate when feeling
nauseated.
Answer: C
Rationale: The team leader should approach the nurses individually to
tell them that they must not administer medication to each other
because there was neither a physician order nor documentation of the
medication; administration. The nursing manager should also be aware
of the situation and document the incident.

43. Roger is a nurse working on a surgical unit and is stuck with a used
hypodermic needle while he is walking to the sharps container located in
the medication room. This unit has a higher incidence of needlestick
injuries than other units within the agency. Which of the following
actions by the nursing manager would demonstrate advocacy for a
quality practice environment?
A. Have a meeting with staff to see how they can improve on
methods to decrease needlestick injuries.
B. Have an inservice and demonstrate how to use retractable
needles.
C. Conduct thorough tracking and verbally reprimanding nurses
who have experienced needlestick injuries.
D. Instituting a "zero tolerance" policy regarding needlestick
injuries.
Answer: A
Rationale: Based on research and occupational health and safety
standards, employers must provide safety equipment for employees.
When an accident is investigated and a plan is developed to prevent
further accidents from occurring, the solution should be based on
preventing the accident at the source. Therefore, meeting with staff
determine the best way to prevent needlestick injuries for staff on the
unit would be appropriate.

Case Study: Angela, a Public Health Nurse, is asked to create a teaching

tool that focuses on diabetes management for clients who often eat meals
outside of the home in restaurants. Questions 44 to 46

44. Angela understands that before clients can learn, they must believe
that they need to learn the information. This is an example of which
learning principle?
A. Maturation.
B. Relevance.
C. Initiative.
D. Motivation.
Answer: B
Rationale: Clients are more receptive and ready to learn if they see that
the information is real and relevant to them.

45. Angela is concerned about a client’s ability to retain the

information she is presenting. Which of the following techniques
would enhance the retention of the material in the presentation?
A. Including a bibliography.
B. Using a lecture format.
C. Speaking very softly.
D. Using repetition.
Answer: D
Rationale: Repetition is an effective means of reinforcing critical
information and enhancing content retention.

46. Angela invites a group of diabetic clients to her workshop and

realizes that the majority of participants are visual learners. Based on
this assessment, Angela should use which of the following teaching
techniques or tools to best assist this group of learners?
A. Handouts.
B. Lectures.
C. Discussion groups.
D. Question and answer time
Answer: A
Rationale: Visual learners retain a greater amount of information for a
longer period if the presenter of the information reinforces the content by
providing handouts. Visual learners prefer information that is presented
and supported in a handout format.

47. Monica, a nurse educator, is speaking to a group of nursing students

about effective communication techniques. Which of the following would
Monica state is the goal of therapeutic communication?
A. Obtaining information, developing trust, and showing caring.
B. Giving advice, data collecting, and developing a communication
style.
C. Self-disclosure, sympathy, and obtaining information.
D. Validation, sympathy, and developing trust
Answer: A
Rationale: Therapeutic communication is client focused; goal directed;
and includes an appropriate use of self, which includes empathy versus
sympathy. Therapeutic communication conveys caring without crossing
the boundaries of communication techniques unique to social and
personal relationships.

48. Margaret, the nursing team leader, overhears comments made

between two nurses. Gilles, an RN, repeatedly makes remarks that are
focused on Stephen's skin color and race. Stephen is observably
offended. Which of the following actions by Margaret would
demonstrate an understanding of promoting a quality practice
environment?
A. Speak to Gilles directly; pointing out that he is harassing Stephen
and that it will not be tolerated.
B. In Gilles' mailbox, leave a pamphlet that addresses how to deal
with harassment and discrimination.
C. Seek out some posters for (he unit that reflect racial diversity and
post them at a time when Stephen is not working.
D. Nothing; Stephen must submit a formal complaint to the human
rights department before anything will be done.
Answer: A
Rationale: It is the nursing manager's responsibility to intervene and
advise Gilles that his comments are harassing and inappropriate and will
not be tolerated in the work environment. This discussion should be
clearly documented and the situation closely monitored in case Gilles
makes similar comments in the future.

49. An RN on a surgical unit learns that a group of nursing students

will be coming on the unit for 7 weeks with an instructor. The nurse
 tells the manager that she “wants nothing to do with those students"
and tells the manager not t0 assign a student to her patients. Which of
the following is the most appropriate response by the manager to this
request?
A. "I understand how time consuming it can be to have a
student. I will ask someone else."
B. "The choice is yours. You are under no obligation to work with
nursing students."
C. "Most nurses like working with students. I thought you would
like to as well"
D. "As a nurse, you have a professional obligation to share your
knowledge with students."
Answer: D
Rationale: Of the choices provided, D is the most appropriate. All
nurses have a responsibility to provide teaching and learning
opportunities to students. The nurse manager should further explore
with the nurse the reasons why she does not want to work with a
student. Strategies should be designed to support both the nurses and
the students on this unit without resulting in any negative outcomes for
clients.

50. Linda is a staff nurse who suspects that one of her coworkers is
self-administering illegal drugs during work hours. Which of the
following is Linda's first priority action?
A. Notify the nurse manager and document the situation.
B. Determine if this is a breach of hospital policy.
C. Report the nurse to the provincial or territorial governing
body.
D. Discuss the concerns with one of the doctors.
Answer: A
Rationale: The nurse has a responsibility to notify the manager of any
behaviour that puts clients at risk or that is against hospital, legal, or
professional standards. Linda may want to confront the nurse at some
point, but this was not one of the options provided.

51. A client admitted to the mental health unit has exhibited physical
behaviours that put him and others at risk. The nurse applies four-point
restraints on the client without obtaining a physician's order or consent.
The nurse is at risk of being accused of which of the following?
A. False imprisonment.
B. Negligence.
C. Battery.
D. Malpractice.
Answer: C
Rationale: Assault is defined as "conduct that makes a person fearful
and produces a reasonable apprehension of harm." Battery is defined as
"an intentional and wrongful physical contact with a person that entails
an injury or offensive touching." Performing a treatment without patient
permission or without receiving informed consent might constitute both
assault and battery. Battery suits have been won based on the use of
restraints when dealing with confused clients.

52. A nurse is caring for a client with a fresh postoperative wound after a
femoral-popliteal revascularization procedure. The nurse fails to
routinely assess the pedal pulses on the affected leg, and the blood
vessel becomes occluded. The nurse is at risk for being accused of which
of the following?
A. Malpractice.
B. Negligence.
C. Refusal of treatment.
D. Forgetfulness.
Answer: B
Rationale: Negligence refers to careless acts on the part of an
individual who is not exercising reasonable or prudent judgment.
Negligence refers to the omission to do something that a reasonable
person guided by the considerations that ordinarily regulate as situation
would do or not doing something that a prudent and reasonable person
(another nurse) would do.

53. A nurse is working in the postanesthesia care unit (PACU) when a

patient's airway becomes obstructed. The anesthetist is not
immediately accessible, so the nurse reintubates the patient with an
endotracheal tube and causes trauma to the vocal cords. The nurse is
at risk of being accused of which of the following?
A. Malpractice.
B. Negligence.
C. Invasion of privacy.
D. Taking initiative.
Answer: A
Rationale: Malpractice is the failure to act in a reasonable and
prudent manner. Five elements must be in place for the nurse to be
held liable for malpractice; the presence of a nurse-client relationship, a
breach of duty, any foreseen ability of harm, failure to meet a standard
of care with potential to injure the patient, ::ll1d actual harm to the
patient.

54. A patient on a surgical unit asks the nurse her opinion of her
surgeon. The nurse replies, "He is a rude man, and his patients always
end up with infections." The nurse is at risk of being accused of which of
the following?
A. Libel.
B. Slander.
C. Negligence.
D. Assault.
Answer: B
Rationale: Slander is considered to be words that are communicated
verbally to a third party and that harm or injure the personal or
professional reputation of another person.

55. A nurse on a medical unit charts in the patient's medical records

that the "doctor was tardy and negligent in his follow-up care" related to
the care of his patient. The nurse is at risk of being accused of which of
the following?
A. Negligence.
B. Slander.
C. Ignorance.
D. Libel.
Answer: D
Rationale: Libel is considered to be written words that harm or injure
a person or the professional reputation of another person.

56. A nurse reports to a physician that the client receiving a blood

transfusion has a temperature that is 1°C greater than his baseline and
is complaining of a headache. The doctor states to continue the blood
infusion. By following the order, the nurse is at risk of being accused of
which of the following?
A. Negligence.
B. Assault.
C. Unethical conduct.
D. Malpractice.
Answer: D
Rationale: Malpractice is a negligent act on the part of a professional; it
relates to the conduct of a person who is acting in a professional
capacity. Five elements must be in place for the nurse to be held liable
for malpractice: the presence of a nurse-client relationship, a breach of
duty, any foreseen ability of harm, a failure to meet a standard of care
with potential to injure the patient, and actual harm to the patient. The
nurse is aware that a spike in temperature of 1°C or a headache is a
significant symptom in a client receiving blood and should take further
initiative to advocate for the client. The nurse must be aware that harm
could come to the client as a result of not advocating for the patient.
57. During a clinical experience, the preceptor needs to provide students
with feedback on their performance. The nurse knows that all of the
following are effective qualities of providing feedback except:
A. The feedback is immediate.
B. The feedback is frequent.
C. The feedback is specific.
D. The feedback is provided in front of the client.
Answer: D
Rationale: Feedback should be provided in a private setting, both for
the benefit of the person receiving the feedback and to prevent the
patient from becoming involved.

58. A nurse tells her client that if he does not behave, she is going to
give him an injection "with the biggest, dullest needle she can find."
The nurse has committed which of the following?
A. Assault.
B. Battery
C. Insult
D. Confinement
Answer: A
Rationale: Assault is defined as "conduct that makes a person fearful
and produces a reasonable apprehension of harm." Battery is defined as
"an intentional and wrongful physical contact with person that entails
an injury or offensive touching." Performing a treatment without patient
permission or without receiving informed consent might constitute both
assault and battery. Battery suits have been won based on the use of
restraints when dealing with confused clients.

59. A nurse gets frustrated with the behaviour of a client who is acting
out. The nurse slaps the client in an effort to control the client's
behaviour. The nurse has committed which of the following?
A. Assault.
B. Battery.
C. Negligence.
D. Abandonment.
Answer: B
Rationale: Assault is defined as "conduct that makes a person fearful
and produces a reasonable apprehension of harm." Battery is defined
as "an intentional and wrongful physical contact with person that
entails an injury or offensive touching." Performing a treatment
without patient permission or without receiving informed consent
might constitute both assault and battery. Battery suits have been
won based on the use of restraints when dealing with confused clients.
60. A nurse educator is preparing a workshop regarding cultural
influences on health care. The session begins with a definition of
"culture." Which of the following should.be jncludeel in the definition?
-...
A. Culture is a shared system of beliefs, values, and behaviours.
B. Culture is the common understanding of a community.
C. Culture is based on the physical characteristics of the
environment.
D. Culture is based on the majority of the dominant religious
beliefs.
Answer: A
Rationale: Culture is defined as a shared system of beliefs, values,
and behavioural expectations that provide social structure for daily
living.

61. Abigail, a nurse in a public health unit, does not smoke, drinks no
more than 2 alcoholic beverages per day, and exercises three times a
week. How does Abigail's lifestyle promote a healthy lifestyle in others?'
A. Abigail is a role model for healthy lifestyle choices.
B. Abigail is not wasting health care resources.
C. Abigail is not accessing her benefit plan at work.
D. Abigail is not infecting others with an illness.
Answer: A
Rationale: A role model is defined as someone worthy of imitation.
Abigail's healthy lifestyle fits into the Health Canada guidelines for a
healthy lifestyle, so she is role modeling healthy lifestyle choices
regarding smoking, alcohol use, and exercise.

62. Amy, a new home care nurse, asks the nurse manager how
frequently she should chart on each client. The manager answers
correctly when she states which of the following?
A. "Only if you provide treatment."
B. “After each client visit.”
C. "Once a week."
D. "On the first and the last visit."
Answer: B
Rationale: A nurse must document in timely fashion after each client
interaction. The documentation should be concise, timely, and
sequential, reflecting the nursing care given and the response of the
client to the care.
63. Which of the following would not be a characteristic of patient
advocacy?
A. Believing "the patient comes first."
B. Promoting the patient's fights arid interests.
C. Providing paternalistic care.
D. Protecting the interests and rights of the patient.
Answer: C
Rationale: Paternalism violates self-determination and advocacy by
acting for another. Paternalistic acts and attitudes can limit the rights of
a patient or client by providing care that is not wanted, requested, or
consented for.

64. Because of staffing shortages, Gary, a nurse from the surgical unit,
is asked to work on the pediatric unit. Gary has not worked in a
pediatric unit for 10 years. He is not familiar with the pediatric unit in
this particular hospital and approaches the nurse manager, telling her
that he does not feel competent to work on this unit. What should the
nursing manager do?
A. Find another nurse to cover this unit and send the nurse back
to the surgery unit.
B. Tell the nurse to buddy up with someone else and do the best he
can.
C. Tell the nurse that as an RN, he should be competent to work
in any area.
D. Give the nurse the lightest workload.
Answer: A
Rationale: Nurses are accountable for their practice and must
recognize the limitations of their own competency. To the extent
possible, the nurse manager must ensure nurses working on their units
have the required knowledge, skills, and competencies.

65. The nursing manager asks one of the RNs to be a preceptor for a
new staff member. Which of the following statements by the RN requires
follow-up and role clarification by the nurse manager?
A. "I would benefit from that; it is part of my learning plan for this
year."
B. "I have 4 weeks of vacation starting next week; could you ask
another RN?"
C. "No, but thanks for asking. I don't like being a preceptor. "
D. "Certainly; it is part of my responsibility as an RN."
Answer: C
Rationale: Nurses should share their knowledge and provide
mentorship and guidance for the professional development of nursing
students and other colleagues and health care members.

66. James is 16 years old and has been treated for leukemia since he
was 8 years old. He is in the hospital and requires chemotherapy. His
parents support the physician's recommendation, but James is refusing
the treatment. What is the nurse's role in this situation?
 A. Advise James that he should take the treatment because his
physician knows best.
B. Advise James that if his parents agree with the treatment plan,
their consent will be honored.
C. Act as an advocate for James and request that the physician
thoroughly explain the benefits and consequences of treatment.
D. Support James' parents and give advice as to the best method of
convincing James to take the treatment.
Answer: C
Rationale: The nurse has a responsibility to James and should
advocate for him. This may include notifying the physician of James'
decision and ensuring that James understands the information he has
been given by the doctor to make an informed decision.

67. Theresa, a nurse educator in the blood conservation nurse program,

has discussed with her client that treatment with iron supplements and
Eprex will be of equal benefit to treat the client's decrease in hemoglobin
as a unit of packed cells would be but without the potential side effects.
Linda, a nurse caring for the client, also discusses the treatment with
the client. Which of the following statements by Linda should be
explored further from a professional or ethical prospective?
A. “I would take the unit of blood if I were you. It will help you feel
better.”
B. "Do you think you have all the answers you need to give informed
consent?”
C. “Have you had an opportunity to ask all the questions you have?”
D. “Tell me in your own words how the nurse educator explained the
procedure.”
Answer: A
Rationale: The nurse's role is to provide information and clarification
and to act as an advocate. Statement A is not focused on the client's
needs but on the nurse's own personal view. The other three answers
explore the client's understanding of the procedure and readiness to
provide informed consent.

68. A nurse working in the operating room is assigned to the suite where
therapeutic abortions are to be performed throughout the day. The nurse
believes that she cannot participate in these procedures because it is
against her religious beliefs. What should she do after she notifies the
operating room supervisor?
A. Continue working in the suite because it is where she was
assigned for the shift.
B. Complete a work refusal form and leave the surgical suite
immediately.
C. Contact the local right to life association and inform them of the
procedures.
D. Remain in the operating room suite until another nurse arrives
 to relieve her.
Answer: D
Rationale: If nursing care is requested that is contrary to the nurse's
persona-l values, the nurse must provide appropriate care until
alternative care arrangements are in place to meet the client's needs.

69. Michelle is a public health nurse responsible for contact tracing of

individuals identified in confirmed cases of sexually transmitted
infections. Michelle telephones all individual named by an infected
client. The caller demands to be told the name of the person who
identified him as a contact. Which of the following is the appropriate
response from Michelle?
A. "Just as I will protect your privacy, I must protect the privacy of
the other people involved."
B. "If you tell me the name of the person you have had sex with, 1
will tell you if it is the same person who identified you."
C. "1 can only disclose the name if you consent to treatment."
D. "The individual who named you asked for anonymity or
confidentiality."
Answer: A
Rationale: The nurse must maintain client confidentiality at all times. If
people thought that their names were going to be shared with people
they have identified as sexual partners, they would likely not disclose the
names and would not want their names revealed. The nurse must
assure all parties that no identifying information will be revealed.

70. The nurse manager of a federally regulated health care agency is

interviewing candidates for a full-time nurse position. Which of the
following questions would be considered a violation of the Canadian
Human Rights Act?
A. "Can you tell me where you went to college or university?"
B. "Where have you worked within a team setting?"
C. "How do you deal with conflict?"
D. "Do you have a physical disability?"
Answer: D
Rationale: The Canadian Human Rights Commission
(http://www.chrc-ccdp.ca/discrimination/barrie_free-en.asp#duty)
states: "During a formal job interview, conduct the same interview with
someone with a disability as you would with anyone else. Unless the
individual raises it him/herself, the job interview is not the appropriate
time to discuss his/her disability. After a person has been given a
conditional offer of employment, you can inquire about the
accommodation necessary to achieve the expected outcomes of the job."

71. Patricia, a nurse within the public health unit, applies for a
position in another department. The manager screens the
applications and does not interview Patricia. Which of the following
are legitimate grounds for not interviewing Patricia?
 A. She is currently pregnant and will soon be going on maternity
leave.
B. She is in a same-sex partnership, and this position is in the
sexual health clinic.
C. She requires a workplace accommodation because she uses a
wheelchair.
D. She does rot have the credentials required of the position.
Answer: D
Rationale: If the individual does not have the required credentials
advertised in the job posting, he or she may not be considered for the
position.

72. Kathryn, a 16-year-old young woman, approaches a nurse and

discloses that she is pregnant. Kathryn asks the nurse how she can
obtain a therapeutic abortion. The nurse responds by stating, "You can't
do that. It is immoral, and you will regret that decision for the rest of
your life." The nurse is demonstrating which the following?
A. Client-focused care.
B. Leadership.
C. Abuse.
D. Advocacy.
Answer: C
Rationale: The nurse should be client focused and act as an advocate
for the client. An effective nurse is often a leader, but in this case, she
has put her own biases before the needs of the client and may influence
the client's decisions. This is considered abuse.

73. Mr. Brown uses a wheelchair because of mobility limitations. On one

occasion, he is unable to call the nurse to assist him to the toilet. He
urinates in his wheelchair. His nurse scolds him in front of other
residents for his "accident." The nurse has demonstrated which of the
following?
A. Verbal abuse.
B. Incompetence.
C. Reinforcement.
D. Negligence.
Answer: A
Rationale: Reprimanding a resident for something that is beyond his
control, especially in front of others, is considered abusive. It is also
considered a breach of confidentiality.

74. John is a resident in a long-term care facility. He is scheduled to

have his bath, and the nurse takes him to the tub room. He states he
does not want a bath, but the nurse begins to undress him and restrains
his arms to get him into the tub. The nurse is guilty of which of the
following?
A. Emotional abuse.
B. Physical abuse.
 C. Neglect.
D. Frustration.
Answer: B
Rationale: The nurse is guilty of physical abuse because she was
forcing the client to do something he did not give consent for, and he
expressed that he did not want to do it. Restraining the client’s arms
and undressing him against his will is considered physical abuse, and
the nurse could be charged with battery.

Case Study: The school nurse is discussing healthy eating strategies

with a group of 8-year-old students. One student repeatedly makes
comments of a sexual nature. The student seems to be preoccupied with
sexual comments and is knowledgeable regarding a variety of sexual
activities. Questions 75 and 76

75. What might this behaviour indicate to the nurse?

A. The student is age appropriate.
B. The student may have been sexually abused.
C. The student has seen a movie with sexual content.
D. The student si mimicking a younger sibling.
Answer: B
Rationale: When a child appears to be preoccupied with sexual
comments and is knowledgeable regarding sexual activities, the nurse
should suspect that the child may have been sexually abused and
should explore the situation.

76. What is the nurse's best response to this observation?

A. Notify local Child Protective Services.
B. Nothing; this is normal for the child's age.
C. Advise the parents to monitor what the child is watching.
D. Advise the student not to copy his or her sibling.
Answer: A
Rationale: If a nurse suspects abuse of any nature, it must be reported
to the appropriate authorities such as the Children’s Aid Society or Child
Protective Services.

77. A client is admitted to the mental health unit in the manic phase of
bipolar disorder. He reduces to take his medication. What would be the
most appropriate action by the nurse?
A. Call security to assist with administering the medication.
B. Ask the patient why he doesn't want to take the medication.
C. Put the medication in the client’s office
D. Administer the medication by the parenteral route to ensure that
it is taken.
Answer: B
Rationale: All clients, including those on a mental health unit, have the
right to refuse medication. It is important to find out why a patient is
refusing to take a medication to understand if the cause can be
eliminated or modified.

78. After the discharge of a client from a surgical unit, the housekeeper
brings a blue pill to the nurse. This pill was found in the sheets when the
linens were removed from the client's bed. The nurse reviews the client's
medication administration record, which shows that the client received
this medication at 0800 hrs. What would be the nurse's priority action?
A. Complete an incident form and notify the doctor.
B. Don't do anything because the patient was discharged.
C. Tell the housekeeper not to worry if this happens in the future.
D. Advise the housekeeper to throw the pill in the garbage.
Answer: A
Rationale: This is a medication error. The nurse must document the
error so the cause of the error can be identified and a plan put in place
so it does not happen again. The nurse should notify the doctor so he or
she can determine whether the patient needs to be contacted with follow-
up instructions.

79. Maureen, a nurse working on a medical unit, is caring for Sally, a

client with anemia. Maureen has a part-time business selling vitamins
and supplements and approaches Sally offering to sell her vitamins to
help “improve her blood.” When another nurse overhears this
conversation, he should discuss which of the following with Maureen?
A. How he can also start selling the vitamins and supplements.
B. How impressed he is with the initiative Maureen has taken.
C. That Maureen has a conflict of interest.
D. The cost of the supplement she is selling.
Answer: C
Rationale: Maureen has offered advice of the scope of practice for an
RN. She could be accused of diagnosing and prescribing. Maureen is
also working outside of the therapeutic relationship. The client may feel
pressured to purchase the supplements to get nursing care or assistance
from Maureen. This puts Maureen in a “power” position over the client.

80. An elderly client asks her long-time nurse to become her power of
attorney. What should the nurse say in response to this request?
A. "1 cannot do this, but I can help you get in contact with a
lawyer."
B. "Thank you. I will take the responsibility very seriously."
C. "That is a good idea because you have become forgetful lately."
D. "I am sure your son will be pleased not to have to carry that
burden."
Answer: A
Rationale: Becoming the client’s power of attorney would not fall within
the nurse-client relationship and would be considered financial abuse.
The nurse could assist the client by contacting the client’s lawyer for
legal advice concerning her power of attorney.
81. A nurse working in physician's office observes a doctor sneeze into
his hand as he is walking from one examination room to another. He
does not wash his hands before he enters the room to examine the next
patient. What is the nurse's first priority?
A. Tell the doctor to wash his hands.
B. Nothing because he may fire her for this.
C. Spray the hallway with a bactericidal spray.
D. Tell the patient to come back if he or she begins to sneeze.
Answer: A
Rationale: The nurse’s priority is the safety of the patient. Therefore,
she should tell the doctor to wash his hands. The nurse has an
obligation to intervene and to take action to protect the client.

82. After surgery, the surgeon writes "resume pre-opmeds" as an order

on a patient's chart. What should the nurse do with this order?
A. Contact the surgeon for clarification because this is not a complete
order. \
B. Transcribe the preoperative medication orders the surgeon has
ordered.
C. Ask the pharmacist for a list of preoperative medications for this
client.
D. Ask the anesthetist to clarify the order.
Answer: A
Rationale: When a patient goes to the operating room, all orders
become null and void. After surgery, all orders must be renewed as full
orders, which requires complete orders, including the drug name, route,
dose, and frequency. The nurse should not transcribe and follow this
order as written.

83. A client has not had a bowel movement for 2 days and is feeling
uncomfortable. The physician writes an order that states "laxative of
choice." How should the nurse proceed with this order?
A. Ask the patient what type of laxative he or she would like to have
to relieve the constipation.
B. Advise the doctor that this is not a complete order and ask for a
specific laxative to be ordered.
C. Give mineral oil because it is en effective laxative and does not
require a doctor's order.
D. Ask the client if he or she would prefer to have a laxative or an
edema administered.
Answer: B
Rationale: This order leaves the nurse in the position of prescribing a
medication. To be a complete order, the physician must write the drug,
dose, frequency, route, and purpose for the drug. The nurse needs to
clarify the order with the ordering physician.

84. A family member of a resident of a long-term care facility reports to

the RN that her mother’s diamond ring has gone missing. The day
before, another resident reported that she could not find a twenty-dollar
bill that she could not find a twenty-dollar bill that she though was in
her night table. What should the nurse do in this situation?
A. Report the incident to the facility’s lawyer.
B. Nothing; family members and residents.
C. Pass the information on to the doctor and the next shift staff.
D. Notify the supervisor and call the police.
Answer: D
Rationale: The supervisor should be made aware of the situation and
should call the police to investigate the potential theft.

85. An individual returns to the nursing unit after being discharged

demanding Tylenol #3's. He is advised that he is no longer a par1.ent on
the unit and this medication cannot be administered. He states that
everyone is incompetent and says, "I know where you park your cars,
and you had better watch out when you leave here tonight.” What is the
appropriate next step the nurse should take?
A. Bring the client into the emergency room immediately.
B. Call the police and report the incident.
C. Administer 2 Tylenol #3’s immediately
D. Nothing; the client is just expressing his frustration.
Answer: B
Rationale: The nurse should call the police because the individual has
threatened the staff, and this is a chargeable offence under the Criminal
Code of Canada. The individual’s behaviour is unpredictable, and he
could be a risk to himself and others.

86. An elderly man is admitted with a self-inflicted gun shot wound to

his abdomen. The wound is deep with minimal bleeding, and it has been
determined that it is not life threatening. The patient is alert and
oriented. He refuses any medical treatment other than medication for
pain medication. Based on this information, what would be the nurse's
priority action?
A. Encourage the family to declare the client mentally
incompetent.
B. Consider this an emergency and allow the surgeon to operate.
C. Provide medication for pain relief as ordered by the physician.
D. Call the hospital lawyer to obtain power of attorney.
Answer: C
Rationale: The client is alert and oriented and is in a position to make
an informed choice. The nurse should advocate for the client to have
adequate analgesia and monitor the client’s condition.

87. The team leader enters a patient's room and observes the physician
instructing a nurse on how to insert an arterial line. The nurse is
actually holding the cannula and inserting the line. What would be the
appropriate response by the team leader?
A. Inform the nurse that he or she is practicing outside of a nurse’s
 legal scope of practice.
B. Nothing; the nurse is performing this act under the direct
supervision of the physician.
C. Tell the physician that he or she should allow all of the nurses on
the unit to have the same opportunity.
D. Ensure the nurse has ample opportunity to maintain this new
skill.
Answer: A
Rationale: Inserting an arterial line does not fall within the scope of
practice of an RN, regardless of whether it is under the supervision of a
physician.

88. A nurse is assisting an anesthetist during the intubation of a patient.

The anesthetist visualizes the vocal cords with the laryngoscope and says
to the nurse, "This is an easy one. Why don't you give it a try?" indicating
that the nurse should insert the endotracheal tube. What would be the
most appropriate response by the nurse?
A. "As long as you watch, I will do it."
B. "It would be a good experienced for me in case I need to do it in
an emergency."
C. "I have done it before, so it would be good for me to do it again."
D. "No. It is not within my scope of practice."
Answer: D
Rationale: Intubating a patient is not within the scope of practice for
nurses, even with the anesthetist directing the procedure. This is not an
emergency situation, and the nurse should refuse to place the tube into
the patient. If the client were injured during the procedure, the nurse
could be charged with malpractice.

89. An inmate from a maximum security correctional facility is admitted

to a medical unit with pneumonia and is handcuffed. The nurse caring
for the patient needs to provide morning care and notices the two
correctional officers socializing with the nursing staff at the desk. What
should the nurse do?
A. Do the morning care with the client while he is handcuffed.
B. Insist that the officers stay in the inmate's room at all times.
C. Ask another nurse to accompany her into the room.
D. Nothing; the client should not have the officers in the room
during morning care.
Answer: B
Rationale: A correctional officer should be with the inmate/client at all
times. To protect the safety of the nurse and the clients being cared for,
the nurse should refuse to administer care without the officer(s) present.

90. A nurse is caring for a patient who is vomiting. The physician has
ordered oral Gravol (dimenhydrinate). The nurse decides to give the
antiemetic intravenously instead because of the vomiting. What would
this action be considered?
A. Practicing outside of the scope of practice of nursing.
 B. Demonstrating initiative to assist the client.
C. Within the scope of nursing practice.
D. Putting the needs of the client ahead of policy.
Answer: A
Rationale: The nurse acted outside of the scope of nursing practice by
changing the route of the medication without a physician's order. This is
also considered prescribing a medication.

91. A patient had esophagogastrectomy performed 12 hours ago. The

nasogastric (NG) tube was pulled out by the client during a period of
confusion. The nurse reinserts the NG tube. This action would be
considered which of the following?
A. Unsafe because of the nature of the surgery.
B. Appropriate because the client requires the NG tube.
C. An indication of initiative and advocacy.
D. Appropriate because this was an emergency situation.
Answer: A
Rationale: Because of the nature of the surgery, the nurse would know
that replacing the NG tube could create bleeding or open the internal
sutures, leading to possible injury to the client. The nurse should
contact the surgeon to replace the tube. Replacing the tube would be an
unsafe act by the RN.

92. A nurse is a long-term care facility is always complaining of running

behind in her duties during her shift. She consistently gives medications
60 to 90 minutes after the scheduled administration time. She also
leaves treatment procedures that are scheduled for her shift for nurses
who will be working the next shift to complete. What would be an
appropriate strategy for this nurse to pursue?
A. Reschedule all treatment procedures for the next shift.
B. Call in sick for a few days to recuperate and think about her
practice.
C. Pre-pour all her medications for the shift to expedite the process.
D. Seek input and direction on time management and priority setting.
Answer: D
Rationale: The nurse should recognize the limitations of her own
competence and seek assistance when necessary. She should also
organize her workload effectively, which includes time management and
delegation.
93. A client on the medical unit has an order for Lasix (furosemide) 20
mg orally at 0800 hrs. The nurse administers the medication at 0830
hrs. What would this action be considered?
A. A medication error because it was scheduled to be given at 0800
hrs and it is now late.
B. Appropriate; the nurse has 1 hour before and 1 hour after the
established time to give a routine medication.
C. An indication that the nurse has poor time management abilities.
D. Appropriate because furosemide should be given at H.S (hour of
sleep) only.
Answer: B
Rationale: Giving a routinely ordered medication within 1 hour before
or after the established time on the medication assessment record
indicates that the nurse is practicing in a manner consistent with the
acts governing nursing practice and the regulatory body’s standards for
nursing. This mechanism is in place to allow the nurse to administer
medications to more than one client. Lasix (furosemide) is a diuretic so
the client is not needing to urinate when he or she should be sleeping.

94. A nurse attends a Halloween party dressed in a white nurse’s

uniform, including a nursing cap. The nurse becomes intoxicated and
begins talking about her peers in a demeaning manner. For which of the
following would this nurse be considered?
A. Not presenting a positive or professional image of nursing.
B. Appropriate for the situation; it was a private party.
C. Presenting an antiquated image of nursing.
D. Some one who has a right to vent regarding her peers behaviour.
Answer: A
Rationale: The nurse has not demonstrated a positive or professional
image of nursing in this situation.

95. A nurse is transcribing handwritten physician orders and is having

difficulty reading a particular drug name. The nurse knows the client
has congestive heart failure and assumes the drug is Lasix. The drug is
actually Losec. The nurse gives one dose of Lasix before the pharmacist
corrects the error. Who is responsible for the medication error?
A. The doctor and the nurse.
B. The doctor.
C. The pharmacist.
D. The nurse.
Answer: D
Rationale: It was the responsibility of the nurse to clarify the order
when he or she initially could not read the doctor’s handwriting.

96. The nurse provides health teaching regarding postoperative would

care to a client being discharged from a surgical unit. Which of the
following statements in the nurse’s notes would substantiate that
appropriate instruction was provided?
A. “Client told to come back to the hospital if wound is warm, red,
and draining.”
B. “Client advised to call the surgeon’s office if pain increases beyond
a level of 4 out of 10.”
C. “Client demonstrated, by repeating back to the nurse, steps to
follow if wound becomes red and warm.”
D. “Client given written instructions regarding wound care and
management.”
Answer: C
Rationale: By having the client repeat the instructions back to the
nurse, the nurse can better assess the client’s understanding of the
health teaching provided. Documenting the statement as written
substantiates the nurse’s claim to not only provide health information
but to also verify that the client understands the instructions.

97. After an infant in the newborn baby nursery has a cardiac arrest,
the crash cart is placed in the hallway to be restocked by RNs according
to the hospital policy. One hour later, the baby arrests again and needs
to be resuscitated. The cart has not been restocked, and critical
supplies are missing. The baby sustains brain damage because of the
delay in obtaining the correct size of endotracheal tube. Which of the
following is an accurate statement regarding this situation?
A. The nurses are responsible because hospital procedure was not
followed.
B. The doctor is liable because he or she was not able to use the
available equipment.
C. The nurses are not responsible for ensuring the supplies were
on the crash cart.
D. No one would be legally responsible because this was a weekend
and no one could restock the cart anyway.
Answer: A
Rationale: Agency and hospital policies and procedures establish
standards of care. If a nurse deviates from the standard, liability could
result if an injury is sustained. In this case, the baby suffered brain
damage because the nurses failed to follow the procedure for restocking
the crash cart immediately after a code.
98. A nurse receives a fax from a physician’s office containing
confidential information about a client the nurse does not know. What
should the nurse do in this situation?
A. Recognizing the error, dispose of the document in the shredding
box immediately
B. Contact the physician’s office to notify them of the error and shred
the document as appropriate.
C. Fax the information back to the doctor’s office using the fax
number on the cover sheet.
D. Inform the police department of the receipt of the fax from the
physician’s office.
Answer: B
Rationale: The nurse should notify the doctor's office that mistakenly
sent the fax in error because they are likely assuming that the document
went to the appropriate recipient. After the notification, the fax should be
shredded to prevent a further breach in confidentiality.

99. A mental health nurse is accompanying a client to the mall to do

some shopping. A neighbor of the nurse approaches her. What would
be the most appropriate response by the nurse to her neighbor?
A. "Hi. Let me introduce my client, Mr. Green. We are shopping
together."
B. "Now is not a good time to talk. I will telephone you later."
C. "I am working at the moment. I will telephone you later."
D. "My client and I are shopping. Would you like to join us?"
Answer: B
Rationale: Choices A, C, and D indicate to the neighbor that the nurse
is working, which would identify the other person as a client. This would
be considered a breach of confidentiality. Option B is clear but does not
identify in the client in any way.

100. Mary Smith, age 49 years, had a total abdominal hysterectomy 1

day ago. Her nurse has assessed Mary's vital signs and is assisting her
to ambulate. The nurse asks Mary if she is • experiencing dizziness or
nausea, to which she replies, "No." While Mary is walking in the hall
with the assistance of her nurse, she falls and injures her hip. Which of
the following statements is correct?
A. The nurse would be found negligent because she accompanied
the client to ambulate.
B. The nurse was diligent in assessing the client before ambulating
and is not negligent.
C. The client should stay in bed for at least 48 hours after surgery
so she does not fal1.
D. The client should have refused to get out of bed and walk in the
hallway.
Answer: B
Rationale: Clients should ambulate after surgery to reduce the risk of
developing deep vein thrombosis, pulmonary embolus, and respiratory
complications. The nurse assessed the client before getting her out of
bed by checking her vital signs and determining the presence of
dizziness and nausea, which could all indicate reduced blood pressure
and an increased risk for falls. The nurse was not negligent because she
assessed the patient and recognized the importance of ambulation.

101. A physician writes an order for the nurse to administer an

intravenous medication STAT, which according to the hospital policy,
can only be given by a physician. The nurse informs the physician that
she cannot administer the medication. The physician tells her, "Give it,
and I will cover you." What should the nurse do in this situation?
A. Administer the medication as ordered.
B. Refuse to administer the medication.
C. Call another nurse to see if he or she would give it.
D. Give the medication but have the physician sign for it.
Answer: B
Rationale: The nurse should refuse to give the medication because the
hospital policy would not support a nurse’s giving it. Giving a
medication and having someone else sign for it would be unethical and
illegal. Asking another nurse would not be appropriate because the first
nurse is aware that the drug should be given by a physician.

102. A manager needs to address with a new nurse the fact that she
wears hoop earrings while working on a complex continuing care unit.
Which of the following statements by the manager would be appropriate
in this situation?
A. “Hoop earrings are not allowed because they present a safety
issue for you and your clients.”
B. “I do not allow hoop earrings on this unit because I do not believe
they are appropriate.”
C. “If I allow you to wear hoop earrings, the next thing will be an
eyebrow ring.”
D. “Hoop earrings worn with a nursing uniform make you look
cheap. Please remove them.”
Answer: A
Rationale: This statement is objective and based on fact and policy. By
stating a fact, such as “It is a health and safety risk,” it is the behaviour
that is addressed, not the individual. This statement also does not
include the manager’s personal likes, dislikes, or biases, which the
other answers do include.

103. A client asks the nurse for the results of his recent blood work.
Which of the following statements made by the nurse is the most
appropriate?
A. "Let me go and get your chart. I will give you the results in a few
minutes."
B. "I understand your concern. Let me call the physician so she can
 review the results with you."
C. "Don't worry about the results. If there were anything wrong, the
physician would have told you."
D. "I can't tell you the results, but I would not worry if I were you. I
have seen the results, and they are okay."
Answer: B
Rationale: It is not within the nurse’s scope of practice of provide
clients with diagnoses based on laboratory results. The nurse should
advocate for the client to receive the results from the physician and
facilitate that discussion.

104. The physician orders calcitonin salmon nasal spray (Miacalcin 200
IU). one spray every day, which is to be administered to a postme-
nopausal woman. What omission in this mediation order could lead to
a medication error?
A. The spray should only be given in one nostril per day.
B. It is not a nasally applied medication.
C. It should not be given to postmenopausal women.
D. It does not need a physicians order.
Answer: A
Rationale: Calcitonin salmon nasal spray is prescribed to
postmenopausal women for the treatment of osteoporosis. Calcitonin
salmon nasal spray should only be administered in one nostril per day.
Many preprinted order sheets automatically print “administer in both
nostrils” when a nasal spray is ordered. Nurses must be familiar with
the directions for each medication they give before administering
medications.

105. Gail, a nurse working in the emergency department, enters the

room of a 40-year-old male patient. The patient is agitated and swears
at Gail. He stands up and moves toward Gail in an aggressive fashion.
Gail moves toward the door and leaves to call the crisis response team.
Which of the following best describes the situation?
A. Gail has abandoned the patient.
B. Gail acted appropriately.
C. Gail is liable if the patient becomes agitated.
D. Gail acted in a negligent manner.
Answer: B
Rationale: Gail, the acted appropriately because she assessed that her
safety was at risk when the patient was becoming agitated and
aggressive toward her. She needed to leave and obtain help in the form
of a crisis response team.

106. Mary, an RN, is caring for a client with hypertension. The client’s
physician has advised the client to decrease the sodium in her diet. The
client has expressed frustration because she cooks with large quantities
of salt and consumes processed foods. Which of the following would be
considered a therapeutic response by Mary?
A. “You do not really need to follow those instructions
completely.”
B. “Cutting out salt is not hard. I had some health problems and
did it myself last year.”
C. “You must follow this advice, or your blood pressure will
become dangerously high.”
D. “Making changes can be difficult. Would you like to make a
shopping list?”
Answer: D
Rationale: Every nurse has a responsibility to practice in a manner
that promotes the patient’s right to make a choice. It is important for
the nurse to understand what constitutes a therapeutic relationship
and the process of making behaviour and lifestyle changes.
Acknowledging that change is difficult, followed by offering a positive
suggestion, promotes change versus the other options offered. Telling
someone that they “must” do something can be perceived as a negative
and paternalistic. The therapeutic relationship is focused on the client,
not on the nurse.

107. A clergy person approaches a nurse who is caring for one the
members of his congregation. He inquires as to whether the patient has
been made aware of her diagnosis. Which of the following would be the
best response by the nurse? ~--..
A. "Yes, the patient is aware and is taking it quite well."
B. "I saw the physician this morning, so I imagine he has told the
patient."
C. "I understand your concern. Have you asked the patient if she
knows?
D. "I don't think that the patient's diagnosis should be your
concern."
Answer: C
Rationale: The nurse must maintain confidentiality. The clergy person
may be well meaning but is trying to gather information that he or she is
not privy to. The nurse should acknowledge the clergy person’s concern
and then suggest that he find out from the client if she understands why
she is in the hospital. This allows the client to share with the clergy
person whatever information she wants to disclose.

108. A client continually complains of pain after the administration of

an oral analgesic. The doctor writes an order for the nurse to administer
a placebo to the client the next time he complains of pain. The doctor
states, "Tell the client it is a stronger analgesic." What would be the
appropriate action by the nurse?
A. Give the placebo as ordered by the physician.
B. Give the placebo as ordered but do not tell the client it is a
stronger medication.
C. Refuse to administer the placebo to (he client.
D. Consult with the pharmacist to discuss dosing of the placebo.
Answer: C
Rationale: The nurse should refuse to give the placebo and should also
refuse to misinform the client. The nurse has a responsibility to explain
to the client the medication that he or she is prescribed. The client can
then make an informed decision about accepting or refusing the
medication. If the nurse misinforms the client of the type of medication
that is being administered, the client cannot provide informed consent.

109. A police officer arrives on the surgical unit requesting a copy of the
results of a blood alcohol level drawn on a patient while he was in the
emergency department. What is the most appropriate statement by the
nurse?
A. "I can't give you a copy, but I can tell you the result."
B. "That information can only be released with a warrant."
C. "Certainly. Here is a copy of the blood alcohol levels."
D. "The results are not back yet, but I will send a copy as soon as
they are."
Answer: B
Rationale: Information can only be released with a warrant. Disclosing
or providing the information would put the nurse in a position of
breaching confidentiality.

Case study: Mildred, an RN, is preparing an educational session for her

peers regarding infection control. Questions 110 and 111.

110. Mildred begins the session by asking the group the following
question: “What is the single most important infection prevention and
control practice?” Which of the following is the correct answer?
A. Using personal protective equipment.
B. Hand washing or “hand hygiene.”
C. Sterilizing equipment.
D. Prophylactic antibiotic use.
Answer: B
Rationale: Hand washing, or “hand hygiene,” is the single most
important infection prevention and control practice. The College of
Nurses of Ontario states: “Hand hygiene is the current evidence-based
term used to describe all hand related practices that prevent infection.
Hand hygiene refers to techniques such as hand rub, such as alcohol-
based hand rinse or surgical hand antiseptic.”

111. Mildred continues with her educational session on infection control

and begins to discuss personal protective equipment. A nurse asks, “In
what situations should personal protective equipment be used?” Mildred
would answer correctly by stating what?
A. “Personal protective equipment should be used when the
potential exists for blood or other bodily fluids to come in
contact with skin or mucous membranes.”
 B. “Personal protective equipment should be used when the doctor
caring for the client orders it.”
C. “Personal protective equipment should be used when caring for
a client in the hospital setting only.”
D. “Personal protective equipment should always be used.”
Answer: A
Rationale: Personal protective equipment or a barrier should be used
when a risk exists that blood or other bodily fluids may come in contact
with the nurse’s skin or mucous membranes. This is a decision that can
be independently made by the nurse and can be used when the nurse
and can be used when the nurse deems it appropriate. It is not
necessary to use personal protective equipment or a barrier in every
client contact.

112. A client on the mental health unit is granted a weekend pass. The
physician writes an order for the nurse to provide the patient with
enough medication to cover the pass. What would be the most
appropriate action by the nurse?
A. Send the order to the pharmacy for processing of weekend
medications only.
B. Prepare labeled containers with medication taken from the
patient's existing medication container.
C. Refuse to comply with this order because it is considered
“dispensing” which this is a pharmacist’s responsibility.
D. Instruct the physician to prepare the weekend medication as
ordered for the patient.
Answer: B
Rationale: Taking a medication from an existing medication container
that has already been dispensed to the patient by a pharmacist is
referred to as “repackaging” and falls within the scope of practice of
RNs. The container should be clearly labeled with the patient’s name,
the name of the drug, and instructions for taking the medication.

Case Study: Elizabeth, an RN, is preparing an educational session for

her nursing team on the topic of pain. Questions
• 113 and 114

113. Elizabeth decides to assess her peers’ prior knowledge of pain and
asks them which of the following will most influence their client’s
perceptions of pain.
A. Cultural background.
B. The family’s response to pain.
C. The weather.
D. The physician’s response.
Answer: A
Rationale: Pain is a complex experience influenced by a person’s
cultural background, the anticipation of pain, previous experience with
pain, and the context in which pain occurs. It is also influenced by
emotional and cognitive responses.

114. Elizabeth wants to determine her peers' understanding of how to

assess pain in a 5-year-old child. When she asks them which method
they would use for this developmental level, she would expect them to
correctly say which of the following?
A. Visual analog scale.
B. Verbal descriptor scale.
C. Faces pain intensity rating scale.
D. Numeric pain intensity rating scale.
Answer: C
Rationale: In this age group, it would be appropriate to use a nonverbal
manner of pain assessment. The faces pain intensity rating scale
consists of six faces with expressions ranging from happy and smiling to
sad and tearful.

115. Allen is an RN mentoring a new graduate on the surgical unit. The

new nurse asks Allen how often she should change the IV solution on
her client to prevent infection. Allen would be correct if he answers
which of the following?
A. "It is not up to me to tell you something you should already
know."
B. "Every 24 hours."
C. “Whenever you see pus in the tubing.”
D. “Every shift or whenever you feel it is necessary.”
Answer: B
Rationale: To avoid microbial growth, IV solution should not be allowed
to hang for longer than 24 hours. Allen has a responsibility to pass on
or provide knowledge to the new nurse and to provide that information in
a positive, supportive, and collegial fashion.

116. To ensure patient safety and that no injury will be sustained

during the insertion of an IV line, the nurse would avoid which of the
following when selecting a peripheral site?
A. The unaffected arm of a woman who has had a radical
mastectomy.
B. A sunburned arm of a teenager admitted for hydration therapy.
C. A tattooed arm of a motorcycle rider diagnosed with renal
failure.
D. The arm where an arteriovenous shunt has been inserted.
Answer: A
Rationale: It would be unsafe to use the affected side of a client who
has had a mastectomy, so the unaffected side would be appropriate. The
nurse should avoid the arm with an arteriovenous shunt so the shunt is
not jeopardized if the IV goes interstitial, if the area becomes infected or
inflamed, or if a thrombosis develops.

117. At the end of a busy l2-hour shift, Michael, an RN, is ready to go

home. He asks Maria, the oncoming nurse, to leave a space in the
nurse's notes so he can complete his charting when he returns to work
tomorrow. Leaving a space in the nurse's notes would do which of the
following?
A. Raise suspicion as to why the documentation was not
completed.
B. Be considered an efficient way of catching up within 24
hours.
C. Be considered an efficient way of ensuring the documentation
is accurate.
D. Be looked upon as a normal practice in most agencies.
Answer: A
Rationale: Nurses’ notes should be completed at the time the care is
provided. The documentation should be chronological, and if a late
entry. The appropriate date and time of the entry must be clear.

118. A new graduate nurse asks her mentor which of the following
situations would be considered a medication error. The mentor answers
correctly if he states all of them would be considered a medication error
except:
A. Following an incorrect order.
B. Questioning an incorrect order.
C. Not following a medication order.
D. Not documenting the administration of a medication.
Answer: B
Rationale: Questioning an order that the nurse believes to be incorrect
is not a medication error. The nurse has a responsibility to question
orders when needed and to document the conversation and follow up.
The other three examples would be considered medication errors if the
nurse followed through on them.

119. Angela, a 29-year-old patient, is anxious after hearing the news

that she is pregnant. The nurse caring for Angela states, "Don't worry;
everything will be alright. Just be positive." The statement by the nurse
is not consistent with therapeutic communication because:
A. The nurse is agreeing with the patient.
B. The nurse is reassuring the client by using a cliche.
C. The nurse comes across as disapproving of the patient.
D. The nurse is focusing on the issue but should be changing the
subject.
Answer: B
Rationale: The nurse has given the client a false sense of hope. The
nurse should explore with the patient how she feels about the
pregnancy and then explore the feelings of anxiety associated with the
news. The nurse has used a more social response that is not
therapeutic.

120. Jane, an RN, is caring for a I6-year-old client admitted with

anorexia nervosa. During the initial nursing assessment, the client tells
Jane that she thinks she is an "idiot and all the rest of the nurses are
jerks, too." Jane realizes that she needs to establish some limits on the
client's verbal behaviour. Which of the following statements by Jane
would be considered therapeutic?
A. "No one here is a jerk or an idiot, so please do not say that again."
B. "I would like to help. Why are you angry?"
C. "I agree that some of the older nurses are not very smart, but I
can help."
D. "Are you always this rude to people who want to help you?"
Answer: B
Rationale: Statement B reflects a therapeutic response by offering
intent to help while identifying the anger. Answer A is argumentative
with the patient, answer C is inappropriate, and answer D is
confrontational and value laden.

121. Aiden is a 38-year-old lawyer admitted on a psychiatric unit for

assessment. He is angry that he is not allowed to go off the unit. He yells
at his nurse, "I have rights, and you must let me go outside. You are not
allowed to keep me hostage here." Which of the following would be the
most therapeutic response by his nurse?
A. "Going outside at thi5 point in time is not one of your rights."
B. "Why are you getting so angry about not being able to leave?"
C. “Your rights have been terminated while admitted to this
unit.”
D. “You are right, you do have rights. Let’s sit down and discuss
them.”
Answer: D
Rationale: Option D is the correct answer because it acknowledges
Aiden’s concern that he has rights. It also demonstrates that the nurse
cares enough to sit down and discuss those rights and to establish
some boundaries and limits. The other responses may be perceived as
inappropriate and confrontational.

122. A nurse manager overhears a nurse who is caring for a client with
an IV make the following statement: "If you don't stop playing with your
IV, I will tie your hand to the side rail." The nurse manager knows she
must speak to the nurse immediately because the nurse is exhibiting
which of the following?
A. Behaviour that is within the definition of assault.
B. An intervention that should be done before the client plays with
the IV again.
C. Excellent role modeling for other staff nurses.
D. Good insight in identifying-a-risk and taking appropriate action.
Answer: A
Rationale: The nurse’s response is threatening and could be legally
interpreted as assault. The manager must intervene in the best
interest of the patient and take the opportunity to educate the nurse
regarding his or her comments and potential actions.

123. A client is being treated for injuries sustained in a motor vehicle

accident that has been well publicized in the media. He caused the
accident, which resulted in the death of two children. The client does not
want to ambulate in the hallway because he thinks that all the nurses
will look at him and judge him for what he has done. What is the most
appropriate response by the nurse providing his care?
A. "I doubt anyone will recognize you with the bruises on your face."
B. "Don't worry; I am sure it will be okay. Stay positive."
C. "You are going to have to face the public soon, so it might as
well be now."
D. "You are here for treatment of your injuries, not to be judged."
Answer: D
Rationale: Option D is the best answer because it shows respect and
acknowledgment of the client’s concern but also reassures him that the
purpose of being in the hospital is for treatment, not judgment. This is
an example of a nurse establishing a therapeutic relationship.

124. During a surgical dressing change, the nurse touches a sterile

gauze on the outside of the dressing tray, resulting in the
contamination of the gauze. What would be the most appropriate action
of the nurse?
A. Discard the gauze and use another sterile piece.
B. Nothing; the dressing change is almost finished.
C. Use the gauze anyway because the wound already has some
redness.
D. Nothing; the outside of the tray is considered sterile.
Answer: A
Rationale: Option A is correct because it demonstrates that the nurse
is aware that he or she contaminated the gauze and that it should not
be used. This demonstrates that the nurse is providing safe, competent
and ethical care. Using the contaminated gauze, especially when the
nurse is aware of the risk of transferring bacteria to the client’s wound,
would not be demonstrating safe and competent care.

125. Roger, an RN, is a practicing Jehovah's Witness. His patient asks

him whether she should have a blood transfusion. Which of the following
would be the appropriate response by Roger in this situation?
A. “You should not have a blood transfusion. I can share with you
why I am against them.”
B. “It is your opinion that is important. How do you feel about the
transfusion?”
C. “I can’t answer anything about blood transfusions, so I will ask
another nurse to speak to you.”
 D. “It is not part of my job to discuss blood transfusions. I will call
your doctor.”
Answer: B
Rationale: Option B is the best response because it allows the nurse
to recognize his own values and opinions but also leaves the focus of
the therapeutic relationship on the client. This response also
recognizes that the feelings and values of the client are important. In
this case, Roger recognized that the client wants to discuss the
transfusion, so he should explore it further.

126. Marilyn is an RN caring for a client with a PICC line that requires
flushing. This is a skill that she has not done previously. TO ensure safe,
professional care, what should Marilyn do?
A. Contact the nurse educator for the unit to provide a bedside
educational session for her.
B. Attempt to flush the PICC line in the same fashion as she would
do with a peripheral line.
C. Request a different client assignment and arrange with the nurse
educator a session on the care of a PICC line.
D. Defer the flushing to the oncoming shift.
Answer: C
Rationale: Marilyn recognized that she does not have the knowledge,
skill, and competency to flush the PICC line and needs further
education. Gaining the appropriate knowledge, skill, and competency
to complete this skill will require further education practice, not just a
bedside session. The other options are neither appropriate nor safe.

127. An RN, Sarah, notices that a number of medication errors have

occurred on the unit. Lasix has
mistakenly been given instead of Losec. What would be an appropriate
nursing action for Sarah?
A. Vary the layout of the medications on the shelves so that
medication are not always in alphabetical order.
B. Develop a system in which the names of nurses making
medication errors are posted on a board.
C. Ask pharmacy Got to fill orders for Lasix with Losec for this
unit.
D. Remove all Losec and Lasix from the medication room.
Answer: A
Rationale: Option A would be an appropriate action. Sometimes
medication errors increase with drugs that are similar in name (SALAD
names, that is, sound-alike, look-alike drugs). Not placing them
together on the shelf or in alphabetical order will encourage the nurses
to take the time to perform the three checks rather than automatically
reaching in the same place without really looking. The other options
are not appropriate.

128. Stephanie records her client's fingerstick blood glucose level as 8

and gives 2 units of regular insulin as ordered. At the next scheduled
blood glucose assessment time, Stephanie realizes that she previously
tested and administered the insulin to the wrong client. Recognizing this
error, what would Stephanie's next priority action be?
A. Nothing; the client needed the insulin anyway and looks to be
doing fine.
B. Assess both of the clients and then call the clients'
physicians to notify them of the error.
C. Check current blood glucose levels, and based on the results;
determine if the physician needs to be notified.
D. Only document that the client did not receive the prescribed
insulin as ordered.
Answer: B
Rationale: Stephanie must admit to her mistake and take all the
necessary actions to prevent or minimize harm arising from the adverse
incident. After performing these steps, Stephanie should document her
response. The other options are either incomplete or do not
demonstrate that Stephanie has admitted to her mistake.

129. Andrew, an RN, inadvertently transcribes a medication order

that was written as "Ampicillin 250 mg qid" as Ampicillin 2500 mg
qid. Andrew gives two doses as transcribed, and Sylvia, the next
nurse, gives one dose before the pharmacist questions the reorder of
the medication. What should Andrew and Sylvia do in this situation?
A. Both nurses must admit to making the medication error.
B. Tell the pharmacist that the quantity of medication sent to the unit
was "spoiled."
C. Adjust the medication administration record to reflect the correct
dose only.
D. Only Andrew should be accountable for the error.
Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is that both nurses are responsible for
this error. Andrew transcribed the order incorrectly and did not
recognize that the dose was too high when he administered the
medication Sylvia should have known the dose was too high. Both
nurses must admit to the error. Options B and C do not reflect nurses’
responsibility to admit error prevent injury to clients.

130. Monica is an RN caring for a client before surgery. The client

states that she is glad that she will not be going through menopause as
a result of her surgery and is only having her uterus removed. Monica
reviews the consent form and notes that the surgery is for a total
abdominal hysterectomy. What should Monica do in this situation?
A. Nothing; the client is likely correct and knows what the
surgery entails.
B. Inform the client that she will go through menopause because
she will also be having her ovaries removed.
C. Contact the surgeon and inform him or her that the patient
needs further clarification regarding her surgery.
D. Place a note on the front of the chart informing the surgeon to
 speak with the client.
Answer: C
Rationale: Monica should call the surgeon and have him or her clarify
the extent of the surgery with the client and what is to be expected after
surgery. The nurse acts as an advocate for the client. It is not the
nurse’s responsibility to explain the surgery to the client. Placing a
note on the front of the chart is not acting in the best interest of the
client because the note may get lost.

131. Mr. Brown has had a transurethral resection of his prostate. Before
having his Foley catheter removed, he overhears his nurse speaking in
the hall about removing his catheter and hears her laughing. How might
this nurse's behaviour affect the nurse-client relationship?
A. Mr. Brown will be reluctant to trust the nurse.
B. Mr. Brown will understand that the nurse has a good sense of
humor.
C. Mr. Brown's opinion of the nurse will not change.
D. Mr. Brown will understand that the nurse has his best interests in
mind.
Answer: A
Rationale: Mr. Brown will likely have a change of attitude toward the
relationship he has developed with his nurse based on what he has
heard. He will lose any trust that has been established with the nurse.
The nurse must be committed to building trusting relations as the
foundation of meaningful communication.

132. Angela is the mother of a 4-year-old patient who has leukemia.

Whenever the nurse approaches. Angela to discuss her son’s care
when he goes home, she states, “Now is not a good time." What would
be the best response from the nurse?
A. "You always say that, but we need to talk about this seriously."
B. "Talking about your son is important. When would be a good
time?"
C. "Not talking is not healthy. I insist that we must talk about your
son now."
D. "We can talk now or tomorrow. What is your choice?"
Answer: B
Rationale: Option B is correct because it reflects that the nurse
respects the mother’s right to choose and is sensitive to the timing of
the information given. The other options do not demonstrate this
understanding.

133. A nurse is examining the Foley catheter of a client who is in a four-

bed ward of the surgical unit. The nurse does not pull the curtains and
does not cover the client while performing this assessment. Which of
the following qualities of ethical care is the nurse violating?
A. Dignity.
 B. Confidentiality.
C. Justice.
D. Choice.
Answer: A
Rationale: Dignity includes the provision of privacy. Nurses must
respect the physical privacy of persons when care is given. Nurses
must also provide care in a discreet manner and limit the number of
interruptions and intrusions during care.

134. Dana is a nurse working in the health services department of a

community college. She is asked by a student to write a note for her
teacher because she missed an exam because of a bladder infect ion.
Which of the following statements by Dana would be appropriate in the
note?
A. "The student missed the exam because of cystitis. '"
B. “The student should be allowed 10 attempt the exam because she
was unable 10 sit and write the exam because of cystitis.'"
C. "The student was absent from her exam because of medical
reasons.”
D. "The student should be allowed to write the exam.”
Answer: C
Rationale: The nurse must protect the student's right to confidentiality.
Stating that the student was absent because of medical reasons validates
the absence but does not disclose the medical condition. The nurse
should only address the absence and not make a recommendation
regarding whether the student should
be allowed to write the exam.

135. Arnold is an RN on the crisis team in the emergency department.

His client is angry and is experiencing delusional episodes. He discloses
to Arnold that he “is going to kill his wife and chop her up to get rid of
her." What is Arnold’s
priority action?
A. Note it on the mental status form only.
B. Notify the wife that she may be in danger.
C. Include "risk for injury'" on his ca re plan,
D. Nothing; the client is delusional.
Answer: B
Rationale: The client is making statements that Arnold believes he may
act upon. Arnold is obliged to notify the wife that she might be in danger.
If he believes the statements reflect a new symptom, such as delusions,
he should contact the attending psychiatrist for “further direction.
136. Shannon is an RN caring for a client requiring a soap suds enema.
During the procedure, the client complains of discomfort. Shannon
would be practicing safe and competent care if she did which of the
following first?
A. Raise the bag containing the fluid.
B. Tell the client to tolerate the discomfort for 5 more minutes.
C. Lower the bag of fluid.
D. Remove the tube from the rectum.
Answer: C
Rationale: The nurse would be practicing safe and competent care as
well as demonstrating knowledge regarding the procedure if she lowered
the solution bag when the client complains of discomfort. The nurse
would know that raising the bag would increase the rate of flow and may
cause further discomfort. The client should not be asked to tolerate the
discomfort because lowering the bag will likely relieve the discomfort. If
the discomfort is not relieved the nurse may then need to remove the
tube from the rectum.

Case Study: A client has had orthopeadic surgery that involved a lengthy
general anesthetic. Four days after surgery the client begins vomiting
fecal-smelling emesis. Questions 137 to 139

137. In reviewing the nurse's assessment notes, which of the following, if

omitted would result in the client's developing fecal-smelling emesis?
A. Assessment of pedal pulses.
B. Assessment of the operative site.
C. Assessment of chest sounds.
D. Assessment of the bowel sounds.
Answer: D
Rationale: The nurse should assess bowel sounds on all clients
especially those who have had a lengthy anesthesia or are vulnerable to
complications of immobility. Prolonged immobility may lead to a paralytic
ileus or a bowel obstruction. In response to a bowel obstruction
peristalsis may actually reverse and lead to fecal-smelling emesis.
138. The client develops peritonitis because of a distended bowel. The
nurses who did not assess the client appropriately would be accused of:
A. Assault.
B. Malpractice.
C. Undignified care.
D. Negligence.
Answer: D
Rationale: The nurse should have performed the abdominal assessment
and listened for bowel sounds as pan of the assessment of this client. By
not performing the standard assessment expected of a nurse he or she
would be considered negligent.

139. The nurse who had worked with this client is required to attend a
refresher course on postoperative assessment and the risks of immobility
in orthopeadic clients. In the session, the nurse educator would include
the risks for increased serum calcium levels, hypotension and which of
the following as risk factors?
A. Paralytic ileus.
B. Increase in caloric intake.
C. Increased preload.
D. Hirsutism.
Answer: A
Rationale: Of the options provided the nurse educator would include
paralytic ileus as another risk factor to discuss in the education session
with the nurse. Immobile clients do not usually have an increase in
caloric intake, so they would have a decreased preload. Hirsutism is an
endocrine disorder rather than a risk factor of immobility,

140. Madeline, an RN employed on a surgical unit has been diagnosed

with type I diabetes. She is having difficulty regulating her blood glucose
level while working rotating shift s. The nurse manager would hl'
providing appropriate accommodation for Madeline if she: did which of
the following?
A. Ask Madeline 10 lake sick days until her blood glucose level is
stable.
B. Schedule Madeline on day shift until her blood glucose level has
stabilized.
C. Have Madeline reassigned to the complex continuing care unit for
1 month.
 D. Encourage Made line to use the employee assistance program.
Answer: B
Rationale: The nurse manager and employer are responsible for
accommodating disabilities in the workplace and should collaborate with
the nurse to come to an arrangement that accommodates the nurse
without causing "undue hardship" for the employer. The nurse manager
would be providing appropriate accommodation for Madeline if she only
scheduled her for day shifts until her blood glucose level becomes stable.
The cost of this accommodation would be minimal. Working the evening
and night shifts makes regulating blood glucose levels difficult. Asking
Madeline to take time off as sick time is not an accommodation, and
having her reassigned is not an appropriate accommodation. The
employee assistance program will not provide Madeline with the means
10 stabilize her glucose level.

141. Shelly, RN, is returning to work after treatment for drug addiction.
She is restricted from administering or having access to narcotics. Which
of the following would be an appropriate accommodation for Shelly?
A. Tell all the nurses on the unit to "keep an eye on Shelley because
of her history of drug addiction."
B. Put her in a role in which she is not dispensing narcotics until the
restrict ion is tilted.
C. Put her on unpaid leave of absence until the narcotic
administration restriction is lifted.
D. Allow her to give intravenous narcotics only but limit access 10
oral medications.
Answer: B
Rationale: Option B is appropriate because it accommodates Shelly's
disability and protects the public. Also, it does not cause undue hardship
on the employer and allows a valuable employee to return to work.
Options A and B are inappropriate because they violate confidentiality
and do not address the restriction. Option D does not follow the
restriction placed on Shelly's license to practice.

142. Stella, an occupational health nurse at 8 longterm-c re facility

performed routine Mantoux testing on nursing staff, and one nurse has a
positive test result, Stella overhears a conversation during which a staff
member States, "One of the nurses has TB.- what would Stella's best
response be to this statement ?
 A. "You are right. One of the nurses has TB, but it is not contagious,"
B. “A positive Mantoux lest result is not definitive for a diagnosis of
TB."
C. “I have contacted the public health unit, and we will have more
information for you."
D. "It is not unusual for someone to develop TB, but they caught it
outside of work."
Answer: B
Rationale: Stella is aware that a positive Mantoux test result indicates
that the individual has been exposed to tuberculosis (TB) and a follow-up
assessment is required to rule out active TB. Option A is a breach of
confidentiality. Option C is incorrect because the public health unit
would only he notified of a confirmed active case of TB. Option 0 is
incorrect and would be a breach of confidentiality.

143. A student entering a nursing program tests positive on his two-step

Mantoux skin test. He approaches the health nurse with concerns that
he will not be allowed to enter the nursing pro gram. What would be the
best response by the nurse?
A. "A positive test indicates exposure to tuberculosis. Now we will
rule out active TB and treat you if needed."
B. "You are correct. A positive Mantoux means you cannot enter the
nursing program."
C. "It is better 10 know now that you will not he employed in health
care before you invest in the tuition."
D. "I would not worry. I am sure you will be fine in the program."
Answer: A
Rationale: Option A is correct because it provides accurate information
regarding the rest and the expected next steps. At this point, it is not
reasonable to expect the nurse to predict the outcome of the follow-up
assess ment. The other options arc Incorrect, and option D is a cliche
answer that is not based on fact.

144. During orientation for a student nurse, a clinic nurse point s out
the medication mom that houses a refrigerator for vaccine storage. The
clinic nurse notices later in the day that the student nurse put her lunch
in the refrigerator that houses the vaccines. What would be an
appropriate statement by the clinic nurse to the student?
 A. “I understand that you want to put your lunch in the fridge, but it
must not go in the drug fridge because of cross-contamination
reasons."
B. “Why would you use that fridge for your food? Do they not teach
you anything at the school you came from?"
C. “That is a good idea. Leave room for other people's lunches, too.
There a re five other nurses who put there lunches in there.”
D. "Can't you read? II says 'NO FOOD' on the outside of the fridge.
Maybe you would benefit from another orientation."
Answer: A
Rationale: The clinic nurse is aware that food should not be placed in
the refrigerator that houses medication. Option A is correct because it
acknowledges the student's legitimate need to refrigerate her lunch but
explains why she can't use the medication refrigerator. Options B and D
do not address the reason why it is inappropriate, and option C is
incorrect information,

145. Roseanne, RN, is working on a rehabilitation unit. She is caring for

a client who has just been admitted after a right below-knee amputation.
He expresses some frustration with the use of his pros thesis, Roseanne
responds by saying.
"You will be fine. Just put your mind to it and think positive.”
Roseanne's response reflects which ineffective communication
technique?
A. Arguing with the patient.
B. Passive communication.
C. Offering false reassurance.
D. Changing the subject.
Answer: C
Rationale: Roseanne’s response represents offering false reassurance.
This is an ineffective communication technique in the therapeutic
setting.

146. Reg is caring for a client who is learning to use a walker after a total
knee replacement. The client states, “I hate this stupid thing. Everything
is going wrong. I wish you would leave me alone.” Reg responds by
saying, "'You sound frustrated. This surgery has impacted on your ability
to be active, and that must be difficult for you.” Reg is demonstrating
which therapeutic communication technique?
A. Paraphrasing.
 B. Sharing of feelings.
C. Asking relevant questions.
D. Empathy and observation.
Answer: D
Rationale: Reg is demon stating empathy by stating that this is difficult
for the client. He is also acknowledging the client's frustration. The other
options are therapeutic techniques but are not reflected in Reg 'S
statement.

147. Mary is a nurse working in a school with eighth grade students.

One of the students has just returned to school after the death of her
grandmother. Mary approaches the student and states, "when I lost my
grandmother, I felt very sad. Is that how you are feeling?" Mary is
demonstrating which of the following therapeutic communication
techniques?
A. Summarizing.
B. Active listening.
C. Self-disclosure.
D. Using silence.
Answer: C
Rationale: Maintaining the therapeutic relationship is important, and
some self-disclosure followed by refocusing on the client is therapeutic
and may encourage engagement in the conversation. The other options
are therapeutic communication techniques but are not reflected in
Mary's statement.

148. Karen is the team leader on a unit where the nursing staff is
experiencing conflict. Karen asks one of the nurses to tell her what is
taking place among the staff. The nurse gives her some details, and
Karen responds by stating, "what I hear you saying is that some nurses
feel the holiday schedule is unfair." Karen is using which of the following
effective communication techniques?
A. Empathy.
B. Summarizing.
C. Confronting.
D. Providing information.
Answer: B
Rationale: Karen is summarizing what she ha s heard to ensure that
she understands the cause of the conflict among the staff. The other
options are effective communication techniques but a re no t reflected in
Karen's statement,

149. During a taped shift report, the evening nurse reports that Mrs.
Myers has been "annoying all evening; she was demanding and on the
call bell constantly." The nursing supervisor provides which of the
following as feedback to the nurse.
A. "Your report was informative and constructive. I haw heard the
same from other nurses.”
B. 'Your report was subjective and not reflective of the cause of the
behaviour.”
C. “Your report was objective but did not reflect the cause of the
behaviour you described.”
D. “Your report was too long and not subjective. You need to reflect on
this feedback.”
Answer: B
Rationale: The nurse's report was subjective regarding her observed
behaviour of the client. It was value laden and did not establish the
cause of the behaviour, which could have been anything from anxiety to
uncontrolled pain. The other options are incorrect.

150. All of the IV regulating pumps on a surgical unit have been recalled
by the manufacturer because of a faulty mechanism. The nurses on the
unit must regulate the IV lines by gravity flow. Which of the following is
an accurate formula for calculating drip factors?
A. Volume per hour divided by infusion time in minutes multiplied by
the drip lector of the tubing.
B. 60 divided by the volume per hour multiplied by the drip factor of
the tubing.
C. Drip factor of the tubing multiplied by 60 divided by volume per
hour.
D. Volume per hour divided by drip factor of the tubing multiplied by
60.
Answer: A
Rationale: Option A reflects the accurate formula used to calculate drip
rate of the IV.
Case Study: Robert, a nurse educator, is required to provide his staff
with an educational session on Mantoux skin testing. Questions 751
and 152

151. One of the staff nurses asks Robert what he means by a "two-step
test.” Robert would be correct if he answered with which of the following
responses?
A. “A two -step test involves an injection given on day one and a
second test given 48 to 72 hours later."
B. “A two-step test involves an injection given on day one, and if the
test result is negative, a second test given I to 4 weeks later.”
C. “A two-step test involves an injection given on day one; the second
step is the nurse or physician assessing the injection silt' 48 to 72
hours later.
D. A two-step test involves the administration of a test on day one,
and if the test result is negative, a double dose of the test solution
injected I to 4 weeks later.”
Answer: B
Rationale: A two-step Mantoux skin test consists of an intradermal
injection given on day one and if the test result is interpreted as negative
48 to 72 hours later, a second test is given I 104 weeks later. This test is
also interpreted 48 to 72 hours later.

152. Robert describes to the nurses how to identify a positive Mantoux

skin test result. He would be providing correct information if he stated
which of the following?
A. A positive test result consists of greater than 15 mm of induration.
B. A positive test result consists of greater than 10 mm of redness.
C. A positive test result consists of 'greater than 15 mm of redness.
D. A positive test result consists of greater than 10 mm of induration.
Answer: D
Rationale: According to the guidelines of the Canadian Lung
Association, a positive Mantoux test result is defined as induration of
greater than 10 mm. In the United Stales, the guidelines may differ.

153. Rachel, an RN working in the emergency Department, receives an

order from an orthopeadic surgeon to get written consent signed from a
client for the surgical repair of a fractured forearm. The surgeon has not
seen the client but has reviewed the radiographs in the operating room
between cases. Which of the following would be the most appropriate
response by the nurse to the surgeon?
A. "It is your responsibility to obtain Informed consent from the
client."
B. "I will get that consent signed and attach it to the chart."
C. "I will get the consent signed, but you must explain the procedure
to the client in the operating room."
D. “Can explain the procedure and have the consent signed all at one
time."
Answer: A
Rationale: It is the surgeon's responsibility to obtain the informed
consent after he or she has explained to the client the procedure,
including the risks, benefits, and alternatives.

154. A client scheduled for the insertion of a percutaneous gastric

feeding tube receives morphine 10 mg before the procedure. Upon review
of the client’s chart, the nurse notices that the client has not signed the
consent form. Which of the following is the nurse's priority action?
A. Get the client to sign the consent before he or she leaves the unit
for the procedure.
B. Send the client for the procedure anyway became you know he or
she gave verbal consent.
C. Inform the surgeon that the consent is not signed and the client
has received morphine.
D. Sign the consent on the client's behalf because you know he Is
aware of the procedure.
Answer: C
Rationale: A client can only provide informed consent when he or she is
competent to do so. A client who has been given morphine may not be
considered competent to give consent.

155. A client requires an appendectomy. The surgeon explains the

procedure to the client and asks the client to sign the consent for the
surgery. The client is Chinese and does not speak fluent English. Which
step, taken by the nurse, would demonstrate an understanding of patient
advocacy?
A. Suggest that the physician have a hospital interpreter explain the
procedure to the client before the client signs the consent form.
 B. Draw a picture for the client to indicate the location of surgery and
where the incision will be made.
C. Have the client's wife explain the procedure to the client in
Chinese.
D. Nothing; the doctor is responsible for obtaining informed consent
Answer: A
Rationale: The nurse must intervene as an advocate on behalf of the
client if he or she believes that the client does not understand the
Information provided because of a language barrier. The nurse should
suggest the services of a hospital interpreter to ensure 'that the client is
providing informed consent based on understanding the risks and
benefits of the surgery. Option B would not allow the nurse to ensure
that the client understands the full risks of the procedure. Option C
would not ensure that the information was being translated accurately. A
hospital Interpreter should be accessed.

156. After a performance appraisal meeting, the nurse manager asks the
nurse to sign the appraisal. The nurse asks why she needs to sign the
document. The nurse manager would be correct if she stated which of
the following?
A. "Signing the appraisal indicates that the meeting took place and
you received the information."
B. “We always ask the staff to sign the appraisal. It is just what we
do."
C. "It indicates that you agree with the performance appraisal and
have heard what I had to say."
D. "It is a condition of employment that you sign the document , so h
is just a formality,"
Answer: A
Rationale: The nurse manager should give an accurate and honest
answer to the staff member regarding the reason he or she is asked to
sign the appraisal document. By signing the document, the staff member
is acknowledging that he or she has received the information but is not
necessarily agreeing to the information in the appraisal. Options B, C,
and D do not provide the staff person with an honest or accurate answer.

Case Study: The nursing staff on a surgical unit has asked a nurse
educator to provide a refresher program on blood transfusion; blood
alternatives, and transfusion reactions. Questions 757 and 758
157. Based on the principles of adult education, the nurse educator
understands that the nursing staff will find the session more meaningful
if the learning design includes all of the following except:
A. Specific content identified by the staff.
B. Information that is relevant to staff practice.
C. An opportunity to share previous knowledge and experience.
D. A strict lecture format
Answer: D
Rationale: Options A. B. and C follow the principle of adult learning
outlined in literature pioneered by Malcolm Knowles. Option D does not
fit into the model of effective adult education principles because it is self-
limiting and not always effective.

158. One of the nurses asks which agency is responsible for the actual
collecting of blood at blood donor clinics in Canada. The educator would
be correct if she answered which of the following?
A. Canadian Blood Services except in the province of Quebec (Hema-
Quebec collects it there).
B. Red Cross Society in all provinces except Ontario.
C. Canadian Blood Services in Alberta, British Columbia, and the
Maritimes.
D. Hospital blood services in all provinces and territories.
Answer: A
Rationale: Canadian Blood Services collects blood in all provinces and
territories except Quebec. In Quebec, Hema-Quebec is responsible for
collecting blood. Nurses should he aware of this so they can access
appropriate services and information.

159. Which of the following is the major cause of acute hemolytic

transfusion reaction in transfusion recipients?
A. Administering the blood too quickly.
B. Laboratory error during the type and screen test.
C. Having a volunteer pick up the blood at the blood bank.
D. Failure to verify the client's identification before transfusion.
Answer: D
Rationale: Not verifying the client's identify before initiating a
transfusion is the major cause of acme hemolytic transfusion reaction.
This is the last opportunity to verify that the client is receiving the
correct unit of blood.

160. A client is to receive 2 units of packed blood cells. All of the

following demonstrate that the nurse understands the guidelines for safe
administration of blood except:
A. Both units should be given at the same time in two separate sites.
B. Each unit should be initiated within 30 minutes of obtaining them
from the blood bank.
C. The transfusion should run no faster than 50 mL/hr during the
first 15 minutes.
D. Red blood cells should only be transfused with 0.9% normal saline.
Answer: A
Rationale: In a non-emergency setting, each unit of blood should be
given separately so that the client does not become fluid overloaded. If an
adverse reaction occurs, it will be easier 10 identify the unit of blood that
is ca using the react ion and the transfusion can he stopped or slowed.
Options B. C. and 0 reflect safe blood administration practices.

161. A nursing student is preparing to dispense a medication to her

client and notes that a medication is ordered to be given “p.c.” When she
asks her preceptor what this abbreviation means, the preceptor would be
correct if he states which of the following?
A. Per cup.
B. Before meals.
C. In the afternoon.
D. After meals.
Answer: D
Rationale: The term “p.c.” is the acceptable abbreviation for "after
meals."

162. A nurse is preparing to administer an antibiotic by the IV route. To

administer the medication, she must add the drug to the primary IV
tubing in the form of a piggyback infusion. Which of the following would
be an appropriate way 10 hang the in fusions?
A. Hang the primary infusion higher than the piggyback in fusion.
 B. Hang the piggyback infusion higher than the primary infusion
C. Hang both the primary and piggyback infusions at the same level.
D. It does not matter where the in fusions are positioned.
Answer: B
Rationale: For the piggyback or secondary infusion to infuse, the
piggyback infusion must hang higher than the solution in the primary
infusion. If the piggyback infusion is lower than the primary infusion, the
fluid in the piggyback infusion will travel into the primary solution bag. If
the bags are at the same height, the solutions will not infuse.

163. A nurse is pre pa ring to administer medication through the client's

nasogastric tube. Which of the following cannot be administered through
the tube?
A. A liquid medication.
B. A crushed tablet.
C. A crushed enteric-coated tablet.
D. An emptied capsule mixed with 30 mL of water.
Answer: C
Rationale: Option C should not be administered through the
nasogastric tube. Crushing the enteric-coated tablet alters the properties
of the tablet and the benefit of the enteric coating. The other options are
acceptable forms of medication to be administered by this route.

164. A nurse is preparing to administer a subcutaneous injection to her

client. She recalls that aspiration before injecting the solution is
sometimes required. Which of the following medications require the
nurse to aspirate before administration?
A. Heparin.
B. Insulin
C. Mantoux skin test.
D. Allergy serum.
Answer: D
Rationale: Options A and B do not require that the nurse aspirate
before administering. Option C is given intradermally and does not
require aspiration. Option D and any other subcutaneous injection
should be aspirated before administration.
165. A client with a pulmonary embolus is receiving heparin
intravenously. For the nurse to be prepared to intervene in the event of
an overdose, he or she should ensure that an adequate supply of reversal
age n t is available on the unit. Which of the following is the reversal
agent for heparin?
A. Prot amine sulfate.
B. Vitamin K.
C. Vitamin 8 12.
D. Enoxaparin.
Answer: A
Rationale: The nurse should ensure that adequate quantities of
protamine sulfate are on the unit to be used in an emergency heparin
overdose situation.

166. A nursing supervisor telephones the constant observation unit to

give the RN report on a new admission. The client has an INR
(International Normalizing Ratio) of 12. Which medication should the RN
ensure is available in anticipation for treating this client?
A. Protamine sulfate.
B. Vitamin K.
C. Vitamin B12.
D. ASA.
Answer: B
Rationale: Nurses should be aware that an INR of 12 would be because
of an overdose of warfarin, and the reversal agent for this medication is
vitamin K. which is injectable and should be kept in the refrigerator.

167. A client has an IV infusing to KVO (keep vein open). How long
should the IV fluid hang before the bag is replaced?
A. 12 hours.
B. 24 hours.
C. Until it is empty.
D. 72 hours.
Answer: B
Rationale: IV solution should not hang for longer than 24 hours. It
should be replaced every 24 hours to prevent the growth of bacteria in
the solution.
168. A nurse is caring for a client with an IV line. When would the nurse
not be required to wear protective gloves during the care of the
intravenous?
A. When inserting the IV.
B. When discontinuing the IV.
C. When changing the IV site.
D. When spiking a new IV bag.
Answer: D
Rationale: The nurse would not be required to wear protective gloves
while spiking or hanging a new bag of solution. However, the nurse
should wear protective gloves for all the other procedures mentioned
because of the risk of exposure to blood and bodily fluids.

169. Abby, a newly graduated RN. is working on a unit with senior staff.
She has noticed on a number of occasions that some of the nurses seem
to "cut corners" when dispensing medications. Abby observes "pre-
pouring" and signing off of medication for the entire shift in tile morning.
Which of the following would be the appropriate step for Abby to take in
addressing her observations?
A. Ignore the observations because these nurses have been working
for years.
B. Discuss her concerns with the nursing manager and ask for
advice.
C. Do as the others do because this is the established norm for this
unit.
D. Place a compliant with the union steward to protect herself.
Answer: B
Rationale: Abby should take her concern to the nurse manager for
direction and to bring her concerns of unsafe care to his or her attention.
Ignoring the situation is not condoned in the standards of nursing
practice. Compromising her practice and following these "short cuts"
would put her in a position of negligence. Just because something has
become the norm on a unit does not supersede the established standards
of practice for nursing.
170. Jonah is an RN caring for a palliative client. At 0800 hrs, he pre-
pours his client's medications for the day shih and signs the medication
assessment record (MAR) she et for the entire shih. At 1200 hrs, the
client passes away and is transferred '0 the morgue at 1300 hrs. Upon
audit of the client's chart, what would Jonah be accused of?
A. Efficiency and proficiency in time management.
B. Embarrassment because of the nature of the event.
C. Inappropriate charting of care provided.
D. Being a role model for junior staff.
Answer: C
Rationale: Jonah charted care before it was given, which goes against
the standards of nursing practice. Nursing records are legal documents
of care given. Signing the MAR indicates that the medication was given to
the client. If Jonah had poured and signed for a narcotic, he could put
himself in a position where he could be accused of taking the medication
himself.

171. The nurse leader of the risk management program in a hospital is

providing orientation to new staff. She explains that the primary aim of
a risk management program is which of the following?
A. Risk management pro vide s the minimal health care required by
law.
B. Risk management protects the family in cases of early discharge.
C. Risk management ensures that all staff nurses have the continuing
education required for their job.
D. Risk management protects clients with regard to quality health
care and safety.
Answer: D
Rationale: Elements of a risk management program arc client safety,
product safety, and quality assurance.

172. A new graduate RN working on a mental health unit observes a

senior nurse administer a parenteral dose of Haldol to a client against
his wishes. What should the new nurse do in response to this
observation?
A. Advice the nurse that he or she can be accused of battery.
B. Advise the nurse that he or she can be accused of negligence.
C. Ask the nurse if this is acceptable for this unit.
D. Notify the licensing body of the situation
Answer: A
Rationale: Battery is defined as an intentional and wrongful physical
contact with person that entails an injury or offensive touching.

173. Molly is working at a community influenza immunization clinic. A

client completes a consent form, and Molly reviews its contents. Molly
asks the client how much her annual income is. Which of the following
would the nurse be liable for?
A. Collecting subjective data
B. Collecting objective data
C. Invasion of privacy.
D. Requesting appropriate data
Answer: C
Rationale: The nurse should request only the necessary information to
provide safe care. In this case, information regarding annual income is
not required and would constitute an invasion of the client's privacy.

174. Kathleen is a new graduate RN who has begun working on a mental

health unit. She receives report from the night nurse, who tells her that
the newly admitted client is "a frequent flyer who is a chronic com
plainer and only seeking a rent -free stay." The new graduate nurse
knows that the senior nurse could be accused of which of the following?
A. Slander.
B. Libel.
C. Battery.
D. Assault.
Answer: A
Rationale: The statement by the senior nurse would fall into the
definition of slander and defamation of character.

175. A client with asthma refuses treatment during an asthmatic

episode, and the nurse respects the client’s right to choose. What would
be the nurse's priority action after this asthmatic episode?
A. Tell the client he should be thankful that he has free health cue
and should use it when needed.
 B. Instruct the client that the next lime he has an episode, no
treatment will be offered.
C. Tell the client that he is being irresponsible and punishing his
family by making this decision.
D. Provide an educational session regarding the importance of
complying with treatment.
Answer: D
Rationale: The nurse would continue to respect the client's right to
choose but would ensure that the choice is based on accurate and
complete information.

176. A client is in active labour and discloses to the nurse that she is
HIV positive. She asks the nurse not to tell anyone. Which of the
following would be the nurse's priority action?
A. Honour the client's request not to tell anyone that she is HIV
positive
B. Tell the physician that the client has disclosed her HIV status.
C. Advise the other nurses to ensure they wear gloves during the
delivery.
D. Tell the client that she must not tell anyone she has HIV.
Answer: B
Rationale: The nurse has a responsibility to It'll the physician of the
mother's HIV status so that steps can be taken III ensure the safety of
the unborn child. When the nurse is aware of information that could
impact on the health and safety of another person, the nurse must
disclose the information and cannot hold the information confidential.

177. A nurse decides that she must "go public" with the knowledge of
inappropriate allocation of public funds in a community health clinic.
She approaches a director on the board of the organization with her
information. She is doing which of the following?
A. Breaching confidentiality.
B. External whistleblowing.
C. Internal whistleblowing.
D. Reactive insignificance.
Answer: C
Rationale: Whistleblowing is the disclosure of Illegal, immoral, or
illegitimate practices that are under an employer's control.
Whistleblowing is the public disclosure of organizational wrongdoing. In
this case, the whistleblowing is internal because the information was
disclose d to a member of the board of directors

178. Michael has decided he can no longer work at a facility because of

understaffing and lack of basic cafe provided to residents. After he has
terminated his employment, he "goes public" with his observations and
informs the local newspaper of the conditions in the facility, Which of the
following describes Michael's actions?
A. Employee revenge.
B. External whistleblowing.
C. Internal whistleblowing.
D. Professional misconduct.
Answer: B
Rationale: Whistleblowing is the disclosure of illegal, immoral, or
illegitimate practices that are under an employer's control.
Whistleblowing includes the exposure of serious wrongdoing, such as
negligence or maltreatment, that exists in the workplace. By going to the
media, it is considered external whistleblowing.

179. Jane and Mary have been living together as common law partners
for 2 years. Mary is still legally married to Bill, but they have lived apart
for 3 years and share joint custody of their two children. Paul, one of
Mary an d Bill's children, requires surgery after breaking his arm
tobogganing. Jane and Mary are with Paul at the hospital. What is the
nurse's responsibility when Bill telephones for information regarding
Paul?
A. Give Bill the information regarding Paul.
B. Tell Bill he is not entitled 10 the information.
C. Ask Bill 10 come to the hospital and see for himself
D. Refuse 10speak 10 Bill an d only speak 10 Jane and Mary.
Answer: A
Rationale: Rill ha s joint custody with Mary of Paul, a child who is a
minor. Bill is entitled to knowing Paul's medical information.

180. Ethically and legally, informed consent requires all of the following
except:
 A. Discussion of pertinent Information
B. The client's agreement to the plan of care.
C. Freedom from coercion.
D. Caregiver preference and opinion.
Answer: D
Rationale: Informed consent does no t include coercion and caregiver
preference. Caregiver opinion could be perceived as coercion.

181. Margaret. a nurse caring for a preoperative client, knows that

clients don't always understand information concerning their treatment
plan if the information contains medical jargon and terminology.
Margaret wants to ensure that her client understands a scheduled
procedure. Which of the following statements will best help Margaret
evaluate her client's understanding of the treatment plan?
A. "In your own words, describe for me what you are having done."
B. "What is the name of the procedure you are having done today?"
C. "Do you understand what you are going to have done in the
operating room?"
D. "Do you have any questions about the procedure you are having
don e?"
Answer: A
Rationale: Margaret's goal is to assess her client's understanding of the
treatment plan. Option A provides an opportunity for the client to
describe the plan in his or her own words, allowing the client to use lay
terms to describe his or her undemanding of the procedure. Option B
may be answered correctly by the client but does not demonstrate an
understanding of the procedure. Options C and Dare dosed-ended
questions and do not allow for evaluation of understanding. Clients ma y
answer "yes" out of embarrassment of not wanting to admit they do not
understand what they have been told.

182. Patrick has been diagnosed with HIV at a sexual health clinic. He
insists that his confidentiality be maintained and demands that his wile
not be notified. Patrick discloses to the nurse that the clinic physician
has informed him that he will notify the wile if Patrick does not. What
would be the appropriate response by the clinic nurse?
A. Suggest that Patrick retain a lawyer to sue the doctor.
B. Encourage Patrick to disclose his diagnosis with his wife.
C. Suggest he contact the Human Rights Commission for advice.
D. Notify the provincial or territorial governing body for physicians.
Answer: B
Rationale: Exceptions to confidentiality are warranted when certain
conditions are present. One of these conditions includes serious potential
harm 10 a third party. Disclosure should be limited to information
essential for the intended purpose, and only persons with a need to know
should receive the information. Voluntary disclosure with the support of
the physician would be the idea l approach to this situation.

183. Michelle, a nurse in a physician's office, observes a client driving a

car. Michelle is aware that the client has a seizure disorder and her
driver's license has been suspended. What would be the next best step
for Michelle in this situation?
A. Follow the client home and call the police.
B. Notify the police department of the observation
C. Call the client and ask whether ht' or she has been driving a car.
D. Discuss the observation with the physician.
Answer: D
Rationale: The physician has a responsibility to report to the Ministry of
Transportation any client who ha s a condition that impairs his or her
ability to drive safely. The Ministry of Transportation (Department of
Motor vehicles) will determine the consequences regarding the person's
driver's license. The nurse cannot breach confidentiality by reporting the
client to the authorities.

184. Alison, an RN. is caring for a client with dysphagia. While she is
feeding the client, the client begins to cough and becomes distressed.
Alison tells the client to "get a grip and slow down." The nurse manager
approaches Alison to discus s which of the following?
A. How to involve the family in feeding the client.
B. Alison's verbal abuse of the client during the meal.
C. How 10 better staff the unit so Alison has help at meal time.
D. The choice of menu items offered III a client affected with
dysphagia.
Answer: B
Rationale: Alison was verbally abusive toward the client when the client
became distressed during the meal. The nurse manager has an
obligation 10 address the behaviour and offer Alison feedback and
consequences if the behaviour continues.
185. Helene is an RN working on a postsurgical rehabilitation unit. To
ensure that clients use their canes correctly, Helene would instruct
clients to hold the cane in which manner?
A. On the unaffected side.
B. On the affected side.
C. In the dominant hand.
D. In either hand, depending on the activity.
Answer: A
Rationale: It is appropriate for the client to hold the cane on the
unaffected side to avoid further injury and to promote ambulation.

Case Study: Leslie is concerned about the increased infection rare in

postoperative clients on her unit. As a nurse educator, Leslie provides a
refresher course on aseptic and sterile technique for the nursing staff.
Questions 186 and 187

186. While demonstrating a sterile-dressing change, Leslie begins to

open a sterile dressing tray. While preparing to open the outer wrapper,
she
reminds the staff that they must do which of the following?
A. Open the first flap of the wrapper toward them.
B. Open the first flap of the wrapper away from them.
C. Open the outer wrapper with sterile forceps only.
D. Open the outer wrapper after donning sterile gloves.
Answer: B
Rationale: To maintain sterility of the field, the first flap of [he outer
wrapper of a sterile dressing tray is opened away from oneself. Opening
the flap toward oneself would result in leaning across the sterile field to
open the other flap. The outer wrapper is considered nonsterile on the
outside and is opened before donning sterile gloves, This step can be
performed wit h clean hands.

187. The surgeon has asked that a culture swab be taken of a surgical
wound. Leslie would demonstrate to the staff that the swab is taken at
which point of tilt' dressing change?
 A. Alter the removal of the old dressing before opening the dressing
tray.
B. Alter the dressing tray is open but before cleansing the wound.
C. After cleansing the wound but before redressing the wound.
D. At any point in the dressing change after the old dressing is
removed.
Answer: C
Rationale: The wound culture is collected after the wound has been
cleansed. This allows for exudate consisting of dead white blood cells and
debris to be removed and colonized tissue cultured.

188. A staff nurse mentions 10 Leslie that during a dressing change, her
client reached into the sterile field and touched till' wound. What would
be the appropriate steps for the nurse to take in this situ at ion?
A. Tell the client nor to do that again and continue to change the-
dressing because it was almost completed.
B. Remind the client to avoid touching the wound and to recleanse
the area and continue with the dressing change:
C. Tell the client that he or she has caused an infection and take a
culture swab immediately.
D. Restrain the client's hands and continue with the dressing change
after taking a culture swab.
Answer: B
Rationale: The nurse should remind the client not to reach over and
touch the wound. The wound should be recleansed to remove any
organisms that may have been introduced, and the dressing change
should then continue. It would he prudent of the nurse to include this
in her documentation. Culturing the wound immediately is not likely to
provide an accurate response. Restraining the client's hands would not
be appropriate.

189. The surgeon has not specifically ordered the solution 10 be used to
cleanse the operative wound during a dressing change. In this instance,
the nurse would know which of the following solutions should be used?
A. Sterile water
B. Sterile Savlon solution
C. Sterile Sat-Clens solution
D. Sterile 0.9% sodium chloride
Answer: D
Rationale: A nurse should know that the solution must be sterile and
would choose 0.9% sodium chloride because it is an isotonic solution
that will not affect cellular homeostasis. Sterile water is hypertonic and
would be absorbed by cells and possibly cause cells to burst. A solution
such as Saf-Clens is not a cleansing solution. Any other solution must
be ordered by the surgeon.

190. Don, an infection control nurse, is preparing a presentation on

various infectious control standards. Which of the following diseases
requires droplet precautions?
A. Avian flu
B. Dengue fever
C. SARS
D. Malaria
Answer: C
Rationale: Severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) is passed on from
person to person by exposure to respiratory droplets within 3 feet.
Droplet precautions, including appropriate personal protective
equipment, reduces the transmission of the infection.

191. When caring for a client wit h MRSA, which type of infection control
precautions should the nurse implement?
A. Contact precautions.
B. Reverse isolation.
C. Droplet precautions.
D. Hand hygiene only,
Answer: A
Rationale: A client with MRSA should be cared for with contact
precautions. Contact precautions include plating the client in a private
room, gowning, gloving, and limiting the movement of the client outside
of the room.

192. A client develops a surgical site-infection. The infection control

nurse knows that the most common came of this type of infection is
which of the following?
A. Contaminated surgical instruments.
 B. Lack of hand hygiene by the opera ting room staff.
C. Contaminants in the air in the operating room.
D. The client's skin flora entering the wound.
Answer: D
Rationale: The client's own flora entering the wound during surgery is
the main cause of surgical site infections.

193. A nursing student asks her preceptor about digitally disimpacting

her client. The preceptor tells the student that it would be unsafe to
perform this intervention because of the client's history of which of the
following conditions?
A. Fecal impaction.
B. Difficulty breathing.
C. Cardiac problems.
D. Constipation.
Answer: C
Rationale: Because digital disimpaction can result in the stimulation of
the vagus nerve, disimpaction is contraindicated in clients with cardiac
conditions. Stimulation of the vagus nerve can result in bradycardia or
dysrhythmia.

194. An unregulated health care worker (UHCW) in a long-term care

facility asks the RN what the term HDNR- stands for. The nurse would
correctly answer with which of the following?
A. Do not resuscitate.
B. Do not reuse.
C. Do not recycle.
D. Do not return.
Answer: A
Rationale: "DNR” stands for "do not resuscitate," The nurse should
ensure that the UHC\V understands exactly "what this means in relation
to the care he or she is providing to residents.

195. Faye, an RN, is caring for a client who recently had abdominal
surgery. The client refuses to turn in bed. What would be Faye's best
action?
 A. Educate the client of the Importance of turning in bed.
B. Not worry about it because the client will turn as he starts to feel
better.
C. Call the surgeon and notify her of the client's refusal to turn in
bed.
D. Roll him over and place him in restraints so he will stay positioned.
Answer: A
Rationale: Option A represents the best option for this patient. The
nurse needs to inform the client of the importance of turning in bed to
prevent postoperative complications. If the client still refuses to turn, the
nurse may need to inform the physician, especially if the client needs his
or her pain management adjusted or if physiotherapy is required. Option
B does not help the client. Option D would be inappropriate and would
put the patient at risk of being charged with battery.

196. A 16-year- old client with a closed head injury has been intubated
for 15 days. Although the neurologic surgeon has repeatedly discussed
the risks and benefits of inserting a tracheotomy with the family, the
client's family has repeatedly refused consent for this procedure. What is
the best statement that the RN can make to the family?
A. “Do you know you r son will die without the trach?"
B. “It is very unusual for someone to die during a tracheostomy
insertion.”
C. “We cannot transfer your son to another facility without the trach.”
D. "I understand you have concerns regarding the tracheostomy.”
Answer: D
Rationale: Option D is the appropriate statement because it allows for
the family to discuss their concerns, fears, and quest ions with the
nurse.

197. An RN understands that the ultimate goal of improving clinical

practice through research is to do which of the following?
A. Decrease the cost of patient care.
B. Improve health outcomes.
C. Promote standardized care.
D. Standardize health outcomes.
Answer: B
Rationale: Improving health outcomes is the ultimate goal of improving
clinical practice through research.
198. An RN working in the public health setting understands that
primary prevention activities include which of the following?
A. Nutrition counseling for diabetics.
B. Cholesterol screenings.
C. Gene tic counseling.
D. Routine blood testing to detect syphilis.
Answer: C
Rationale: Genetic counseling is an example of primary prevention.

199. A nurse manager must make a decision an d decides to base the

decision on the advice of staff nurses who have experience and
knowledge of the issue at hand. The nurse manager is using which
decision-making style?
A. Authoritative.
B. Bureaucratic.
C. Consultative.
D. Facilitative.
Answer: C
Rationale: Asking for input and basing a decision on the expertise and
knowledge of those with previous arid direct experience with the issue at
hand Is considered a consultative style of decision making.

200. After 6 weeks of negotiation between management and the union

regarding a collective agreement for nurses in the hospital setting, the
contract is going for ratification. Ratification occurs when which of the
following takes place?
A. A majority of nurses on duty agree to the contract.
B. Both negotiating teams come to an agreement.
C. The Minister of Health signs the contract agreement.
D. Union members votes in favour of the agreement.
Answer: D
Rationale: Ratification occurs when union members have an
opportunity to vote. When they vote in favor of the contract, it is
considered ratified.
201. Anne has had a myocardial infarction and is on life support. Carol,
he r common law partner, wants to sign the organ do nation consent to
donate Anne's corneas if she is declared brain dead. Mark. Anne's
estranged husband, shows up at the hospital and states that he will
refuse to allow the do nation to occur. In this situation, who has the legal
right to make the decision? (1 point)
Answer: Mark, the estranged husband, has the legal right to make the
decision because Anne and Mark are still legally married.
Rationale: In this situation. Mark would be considered next of kin and
would have to provide consent for the donation.

202. Agnes works for a visiting nursing service. At noon on Friday, Agnes
decides to end her shift without visiting he r afternoon clients but bills
the agency for the visits. One week later. Agnes is terminated from her
position. Identify three grounds the agency would have to terminate
Agnes. (3 points)
Answers:
 Misappropriating funds from the company
 Fraud
 Abandonment of patient care
 Falsifying documents
Rationale: All of these answers could be applied to this situation.

203. A nurse is working on a medical unit. Three hours in to her shift,

she needs to leave the work place because of a family emergency. The
nurse assuming care for the first nurse's patients reviews the medication
assessment record (MAR) sheets and notes that the nurse has signed for
the medications for the entire shift. Identify three priority act ions tilt'
nurse should take. (3 points)
Answers:
 Notify the supervisor.
 Call the previous nurse to establish which medications were
actually given and when and notify him or her that this is an
inappropriate action .
 Complete an incident report.
 Ensure that the patients receive the medications that they should
receive on time.
Rationale: The nursing supervisor needs to be notified and an incident
report completed to track this behaviour. Doing this also allow the
manager to follow up on previous occurrences. If this is behaviour
occurs routinely on this unit, it needs to be addressed in an educational
session. The previous nurse should be aware of the inappropriate
behaviour and should clarify with the oncoming nurses which
medications have been given. The patients still require medication as
prescribed.

204. The nurse is completing his computerized charting when a

physician asks to use the nurse's password to access another client's file
because she forgets he r own password. Why should the nurse refuse to
give the doctor his password? (I point)
Answer: Computer passwords should be kept private and not shared
because they are used to ensure patient confidentiality and to track
access to records,
Rationale: Most agencies require staff members to sign a contract
indicating that they will not share their passwords. Doing so could lead
to a reprimand.

205. A nurse enters the nursing station to look at her client's most
recent blood work on the computer. The previous nurse has not logged
off of the computer. Identify two actions the nurse should take. (2 points)
Answers:
 Log off the previous nurse.
 Log on using her own password.
 Speak 10 the previous nurse about leaving the computer while still
being logged on.
Rationale: Take steps to protect patient confidentiality by logging off the
previous nurse. The system should only be accessed by using your own
password. This situation should be addressed with the nurse who did
not log off previously to ensure that he or she understands appropriate
computer access protocol.

Case Study: Jane is a nurse working during the evening shift when she
develops a headache. Jane asks her coworker, Mary, for a Tylenol # 7
(acetaminophen with codeine 75 mg), which is available in the stock
supply on this unit. Questions 206 and 207

206. List two reasons why the nurses would be found guilty of
professional misconduct if Mary complies with the request of he r
coworker. (2 points)
Answers:
 There has been no doctor order for a prescription medication.
 There is no medical chart to document the medication.
 There is likely an agency policy that states that this should not be
done.
 The nurse would be considered to be prescribing and dispensing.
Rationale: All answers arc based on the legality and scope of practice of
nursing. Nurses are answerable for their practice, and they must act in a
manner consistent with their professional responsibilities and standards
of practice.

207. When the nurse refuses to give Jane the Tylenol #1, Jane asks
another nurse. This nurse complies with Jane's request by giving her one
Tylenol # 1 now and one." for later. The Tylenol" 1 is taken from the stock
medication. List two steps the nurse manager should follow when he or
she becomes aware of this situation. (2 points)
Answers:
 Notify Jane and the other nurse involved that they should not
dispense medication without an order.
 Notify the nurse manager (supervisor) of the situation.
Rationale: There is no order for these medications nor is there a
mechanism for documentation. Jane would be considered 10 be
dispensing medication, which falls within the scope of practice of a
pharmacist an d is outside the scope of practice of nurses. Nurses must
practice in a manner consistent with the acts governing nursing practice
and the regulatory body's standards of practice. The nurses must
practice within the scope of practice of nursing.

208. A patient arrives in the emergency department in police custody. He

is handcuffed to the stretcher rail. A nurse examines the patient but is
concerned that he is in restraints. The nurse asks the officer to remove
the handcuffs, but the officer refuses. Explain the nurse's responsibility
regarding the handcuffs as a restraint. (I point)
Answer: The police, not the nurse, have put the client in restraint. so the
nurse was not responsible for the application of the restraint.
Rationale: The nurse would be responsible if he or she applied any form
of restraint. The police and correctional officers have their own policies
regarding restraints and take responsibility for this action. However, the
nurse should assess the skin around and underneath the handcuffs to
ensure there is no damage as a result.

209. Mrs. Black is an 88-year-old patient who is receiving care in her

home by a visiting nurse. The nurse shares with Mrs. Black that she is
experiencing financial difficulty and has to work two jobs. Mrs. Black
gives the nurse an envelope with a significant amount of money in it,
stating, and “It is a tip for the good care you give me”. Identify two
actions the nurse should take in response to this offer. (2 points)
Answer:
 Refuse to take the money.
 Advise the nursing supervisor.
 Document the conversation and her actions.
Rationale: The nurse should not accept the lift from the client. The
nursing supervisor should be notified and the conversation documented
to ensure n is dear that the nurse did not accept the gift. Gifts
appropriate in value for the care given, such as chocolates or a donation
that is made to a nursing unit for all the staff to access, would be
appropriate. Accepting a significant amount of money from a client would
be considered abuse and crosses the boundaries of the nurse-client
relationship.

210. The nurse ret urns 10 the client's bedside to restart the primary IV
solution after the administration of a secondary piggyback medication.
She now realizes that she administered the wrong medication to her
client. What two priority actions should she take immediately? (2 points)
Answer: Assess the client and call the doctor.
Rationale: The primary responsibly of the nurse is to assess that no
harm has come to the client and to notify the physician for further
direction.
211. Rachelle is having difficulty getting her patient to take her
medication, Fran, a second nurse, suggests she crush the pills and "put
them in the client's mashed potatoes. She will never notice they are
there, and you r problem will be solved.” Identify what is wrong with this
solution. (1 point)
Answer: Patients have the right to refuse medication. Hiding medication
s in food is unethical and unprofessional and is considered abuse.
Rationale: Patients have the right to refuse medication. The nurse
should find out why the patient does not want the medication. Hiding
medications in food is unethical and unprofessional and is considered
abuse.

212. A surgeon examines a patient after an examination of another

patient. The surgeon does not wash his hands between examining the
patients. List two actions the nurse should take after observing this
behaviour. (2 points)
Answers:
 Tell the surgeon that he must wash his hands between patients.
 Complete an incident report.
 Notify the nursing manager or infection control department.
Rationale: The surgeon needs to be made aware of his infection control
risk, and the manager needs to be made aware of the situation. An
incident re port should be completed to track trends because patients'
risk "of infection is of utmost importance.

213. A nurse observes another nurse preparing to administer an

antihypertensive medication to a patient without assessing the client's
blood pressure. Identify one nursing intervention the nurse should
Implement to address this situation, (1 point)
Answer: The nurse should intervene on the client's behalf and tell the
other nurse that he or she should assess the blood pressure before
administering the antihypertensive medication. The nurse should notify
the nursing manager so he or she can offer training to the other nurse to
prevent repeat incidents.
Rationale: The nurse must intervene on behalf of the client before the
medication is administered. Assessing blood pressure before
administering an antihypertensive is appropriate. Nurses should notify
the appropriate person if they observe unsafe practices by a nursing
colleague.

214. An RN is enrolled in the nurse practitioner program. While

assessing his client, he is overheard behind a curtain "prescribing"
digoxin to a patient. What is wrong with this order? (1 point)
Answer: He would be practicing outside of his scope of practice because
he is not yet registered as a nurse practitioner.
Rationale: Although registered nurse practitioners are allowed to
prescribe certain medications, they are not allowed to do so
independently outside of the delegated list of medications. Digoxin is not
a drug that could be ordered by the RN in the extended class category
(nurse practitioner).

215. Alter the discharge of a client from the hospital, the nurse cannot
find the patient's chart. List three actions the nurse should take after a
search of the unit for the chart. (3 points)
Answers:
 Notify the physician.
 Notify security.
 Notify the supervisor.
 Notify the patient.
 Complete an incident report.
Rationale: All of these steps should be taken to recover the chart and to
ensure that the appropriate individuals are notified. The nurse and the
nursing unit a re responsible for the chart, and if it is "lost." they need to
take action regarding the confidentially of the record and the recover y of
the information.

216. The nurse caring for a postoperative client hangs an IV solution that
contains potassium chloride (K+) 40 mEq/L. The client has ha d a
urinary output of 20 mL/hr for each of the past 3 hours. Why would
hanging this infusion be an unsafe practice? (I point)
Answer: The client does not have enough urinary output to demonstrate
adequate kidney function to eliminate excess K+. The client is
predisposed to becoming hyperkalemic.
Rationale: The nurse who hangs the IV with K+ while knowing that the
patient 's urinary output is less than sufficient (30 mL/hr) docs not
recognize that the client has decreased urinary function and. as a result.
K+ is not being diuresed at an appropriate rate. This would lead to
hyperkalemia, which would be a negative outcome for the client. If the K+
is hung, the nurse would be acting in an unsafe and negligent manner.

217. A physician orders doxycycline (Vibramycin) to be given every 6

hours via an intramuscular (IM) route. Product literature states that if
doxycycline is given parenterally, it should only be administered
intravenously. The nurse gives the medication as an IM injection,
resulting in the patient's experiencing pain and swelling at the injection
site. The damage is severe and has lead to a permanent disability. II the
nurse is named in a lawsuit; on what grounds would she be liable for the
outcome of the injection? (1 point)
Answer: The nurse would be liable because nurses are responsible for
knowing the accepted routes for administration for medications they are
giving and must question orders that are incorrect, inconsistent, or
inappropriate.
Rationale: Knowing the appropriate route to administer a medication is
a fundamental pan of medication administration and is the responsibility
of nurses. Giving the medication by a route not approved or
recommended would make the nurse liable for negative outcomes to the
client.

218. A nurse administers meperidine (Demerol) as ordered for pain. The

client experiences nausea and vomiting and a decrease in respiratory
rate. Identify three priority areas the nurse should chart on regarding the
client's adverse reaction to the medication. (3 points)
Answers:
 Document the event and assess ment in the nurse's notes.
 Document the notification of the event to the physician.
 Document the nursing interventions.
 Document the client's response to the nursing interventions.
Rationale: Documenting each of these actions will establish a record of
events and will demonstrate that the nurse met the standards of patient
care during and after administration of the medication.
219. A nurse making rounds in a long-term care facility finds a client
silting on the floor beside his bed stating that he had fallen. Identify lour
significant pieces of information that till' nurse should document when
reporting the fall to ensure an accurate account of the incident is
recorded. (4 points)
Answers:
 The condition and position of the client when he was found
 Fall prevention measures that were in place
 Statements made by the client regarding pain
 The time of and response to the call placed to the physician
 The time of the physician's arrival, if applicable
 The time of the call and time of response by EMS, if applicable
 The time of contact to client's family or next of kin
 Diagnostic and assessment measures used and their results
Rationale: Documenting these observations and steps will provide
background information and support the safety measures taken to
prevent tails and further injury. Documenting timelines and response
times will support the nurse's claims of providing competent care.

220. A 50-year-old man is admitted to the emergency department with a

suspected forearm fracture. He has multiple tattoos and scars on his
forearms, indicating that he could be an IV drug user. The physician
orders a HIV test as part of the routine admission blood work. Provide
three reasons why taking an HIV test based on these observations would
be inappropriate. (3 points)
Answers:
 This test is being ordered based on a subjective observation of the
client (i.e., tattoos and needle scars).
 The client's HIV status would not affect the cause or outcome of
the injury for which he was admitted.
 The client did not give informed consent for the test to be done.
 Universal precautions should be taken with all clients.
Rationale: The client's HIV status will not affect the cause or treatment
of his forearm fracture. If the client had been admitted with a condition
that could warrant investigation of HIV as a cause, then the physician
should discuss the test with the client. Informed consent is necessary
before testing is done.
221. A client returns to the nursing unit at 1330 hrs after a total
thyroidectomy. Eleanor, an RN, is caring for the client for the remainder
or the shift and checks the patient's vital signs, dressing site, and ability
10 swallow. At 1900 hrs when the oncoming nurse assesses the client,
she notes that the client has a positive Trousseau's sign and Chvostek
sign. These tests had not been recorded in the nurse's notes or in the
shift report. Why is Eleanor negligent in this case? (1 point)
Answer: Eleanor did no t carry out the appropriate postoperative
assessment for a client who has had a total thyroidectomy.
Rationale: Trousseau's sign and Chvostek’s sign are required and
routine postoperative assessments for patients who have undergone a
thyroidectomy. When a client has had thyroid surgery or any surgery o r
injury that might injure the parathyroid glands, assessment of calcium
deficit is required. A calcium deficit will lead to a positive T and C test
result. The nurse caring for the client should have included this
assessment technique as part of the routine postoperative assessment.
By missing the signs of a low calcium level, the nurse is negligent.

222. A physician orders furosemide (Lasix) 40 mg PO to be given at 0800

hrs. The nurse has furosemide 20 -mg tablets available. What would be
the appropriate number of tablets for the nurse to administer? (1 point)
Answer: Two tablets.
Rationale: The nurse is responsible for administering the appropriate
dose of medication.

223. A nurse is to administer digoxin 0.25 mg PO at 1200 hrs. The nurse

has digoxin D.12S-mg tablets in stock. How many tablets would the
nurse administer? (1 point)
Answer: Two tablets.
Rationale: The nurse is responsible for administering the correct dose
of medication.

224. A 58-year -old man is admitted to the emergency department after a

motorcycle accident in which the motorcycle landed on his left leg. The
RN performs a vascular assessment before the emergency physician
discharges the client. The RN notes that the client's left pedal pulse is
neither palpable nor audible. She reports this finding to the physician,
who still chooses 10 discharge the client. Twelve hours later, the client
returns to the hospital in excruciating pain, and his foot is cyanotic.
When the physician chose not to respond to the nurse's assessment of
the client, what should have been the nurse's priority actions? (1 point)
Answers:
 Report her concerns to the supervisor.
 Thoroughly document the assessment findings.
 Document the conversation with the physician.
Rationale: The nurse has a responsibility to advocate for the patient
and ensure that he receives appropriate care. The nurse should have
taken her assessment finding and concerns to her supervisor before the
client left the hospital.

225. Simon is applying for a position of RN on the pediatric unit of a

hospital. During the interview, he states that he is competent to work
with this age group of clients when he has actually not worked in this
area before. Why is this an ethical nursing issue? (1 point)
Answer: Simon has a responsibility to practice within his level of
competence. When seeking employment, he must accurately state his
area of competence. In this situation, Simon has not done this and is
breaching an ethical standard that could lead to unsafe patient care.
Rationale: Simon has a professional responsibility to present himself
accurately when applying for a job.

226. Phil is an RN caring for a client who is confused and continually

gets out of bed and walks in the halls, stating she is "going outside to
meet my boyfriend in the park." Phil tells the client that the next lime she
gets out of bed, he is going to take he r clothes away. Twenty minutes
later, she is observed walking in the hallway naked, looking for her
sweater. Why was Phil's behaviour inappropriate and unethical? (2
points)
Answer: Nurses must avoid any punishment, unusual treatment, or
action that is inhumane or degrading. Taking the client's clothes away,
which resulted in her walking in the hall naked, is unethical, degrading,
and unprofessional. This is not an appropriate means to change patient
behaviour.
Rationale:
The Code of Ethics for Canadian Nurses clearly states that nurses must
recognize and respect the inherent worth of each person and advocate for
respectful treatment of all persons. This behaviour does not reflect this
kind of ethical behaviour.

227. Rodger. a nurse in the opera ting room, has been diagnosed with
chronic fatigue syndrome. List two accommodations the nurse manager
can offer Rodger to support him as he copes with his disability (2 points}.
Answers:
 Have him work the day shift only.
 Ensure that he gets his regular breaks.
 Reduce his work load.
 Ensure that he does not work more than four shifts in a row.
Rationale: All of the se options would accommodate the nurse's
disability without causing undue hardship to the employer.

228. Sandra. a nurse in a tong-term care facility, has developed minimal

bilateral hearing loss. List three assistive devices the employer can
provide for Sandra to accommodate her disability. (3 points)
Answers:
 Amplification on the telephone
 Amplified stethoscopes
 Automated blood pressure cuffs with digital readout displays
 Pulse oximetry with digital readout displays
 Vibrating pager
 Taped reports that can be replayed as needed
 Smoke alarms and other alarms that have lights as well as sound
Rationale: All of these assistive devices assist nurses experiencing
hearing loss and assist employers to meet their obligations to
accommodate workers' disabilities.

Case Study: Michael is caring for a client who has had cancer treatment
over the past 3 years, Michael is aware of the client's strong belief in not
receiving a blood transfusion. Questions 229 to 231
229. The client has low hemoglobin, and the physician orders a unit of
packed blood cells to be infused. Michael brings it to the physician's
attention that the client does not want blood or blood products. The
physician's reply is. "Just do your job and hang the blood. Leave the
thinking to me.” What would be the consequences, if any, if Michael
administers the blood? (1 point)
Answer: Michael should not hang the blood
because he is aware of the client's wishes. He could
be found liable for battery if he proceeds.
Rationale:
Michael is aware of the client's right to refuse
treatment and believes the client made this decision
as a competent person. He understands that he is an
advocate for the client and should not provide a
treatment he knows that the client has refused.

230. What would be the next appropriate action for Michael 10take? (1
point)
Answer: He should call his manager to report the situation and ask for
support.
Rationale: Clients have the right to refuse treatment. Consent for or
against treatment must be made by competent individuals. Nurses must
contact their supervisors when they believe the client has refused
treatment.

231. Six months later, the cancer patient is admitted alone in a semi
-comatose state to a hospital in another city. The emergency room
physician orders a unit of blood became of the client's low hemoglobin.
The emergency nurse administers the blood. What arc the consequences,
if any, for the nurse hanging the blood? (1 point)
Answer: The client was not able to give or refuse consent because of her
cognitive state. The underlying assumption is that the client has come to
the hospital for care and the unit of blood is an appropriate treatment for
her low hemoglobin.
Rationale: There was no one with the client to give consent. The nurse
would not be liable for battery in this case.
232. During orientation for a student nurse, a clinic nurse points out the
medication room that houses a fridge for storage of vaccines. The
refrigerator has a thermometer attached to it, and the student asks why
the nurse is looking at the thermometer and recording the temperature
on a chart. What would be the most appropriate explanation by the
nurse? (1 point)
Answer: Immunizations must be stored at a temperature of 40 to 8°C. It
is important to document the temperature of the refrigerator to record
and maintain the "cold chain" and Integrity of vaccines.
Rationale: The nurse is aware of the safety measures and safe storage
of vaccines. Documentation will protect the nurse, the facility, and the
public by ensuring a record of the temperature the refrigerator is kept at
and the appropriate steps taken if the temperature moves outside the
acceptable range.

233. Bonnie, an RN, is carrying out her morning assessment founds.

One of Bonnie's clients ha s a dressing on her left leg to cover a venous
ulcer. Bonnie asks an unregulated health care worker (UHCW) to "turn
the client." List two additional pieces of information Bonnie should
provide to the UHCW. (2 points)
Answers:
 Instructions regarding the dressing on the venous ulcer
 Safety precautions regarding protecting the venous ulcer and other
skin eras
 Bonnie's expectations regarding the UHCW's reporting back to her
after turning the patient
Rationale: Bonnie is within her rights 10 delegate the turning of the
client to an UHCW as long as she gives specific instructions regarding
special circumstances such as how to ensure safe turning when the
client has a dressing and a venous ulcer. Bonnie should also ensure that
the UHCW has the knowledge, skill, and ability to per form the task and
knows what information Bonnie requires alter completing the task.

234. A client is in circulatory overload. Identify the impact this will have
on a client's hemoglobin. (1 point)
Answer: The client’s hemoglobin may be falsely low.
Rationale: The nurse should be aware of the impact of overhydration on
hemoglobin so that he or she can advocate for the client for appropriate
treatment.
235. Tony, a new graduate RN, observes another nurse administering the
wrong dose of medication to a 2-year-old client. The nurse states to Tony
that “a little extra antibiotic won't hurt" and proceeds to provide morning
care. List two priority actions Tony should take in this situation. (2
points)
Answer:
 This is a medication error and must be reported.
 Ensure that the nursing manager is notified.
 Ensure that the physician is notified.
 Ensure that an incident report is completed.
 Ensure that the child is assessed for adverse effects.
Rationale: Tony has witnessed a medication error. He is responsible for
following up on what he has observed. He must ensure that the child
has not been injured and then must report the error. Ideally, the nurse
who made the mistake should report the incident and should
demonstrate that he or she is responsible for his or her own acts.

236. A new RN on a unit asks another nurse to provide feedback on his

clinical competency. List three effective qualities for providing feedback
when giving feedback to J nurse regarding his or her performance. (1
point)
Answer: The feedback is:
 Immediate
 Frequent
 Specific
 Objective
 Based on observable behaviour
 Communicated appropriately
 Communicated in private
 Accompanied by suggestions for change.
Rationale: All of these qualities are essential when giving effective
feedback regarding performance to adults. These qualities will avoid
defensiveness on the part of the receiver. This type of feedback leads to a
greater chance of positive behaviour changes or modification.