NCLEX Practice Questions on Spinal Cord Injury: Essential for Your Nursing Exam
Introduction
Spinal cord injuries (SCIs) present unique challenges in nursing care and are critical topics covered in the NCLEX (National Council Licensure Examination). Understanding the complexities of SCIs will not only help you excel in your NCLEX but also prepare you for real-world nursing scenarios. spinal cord injury practice nclex questions
In this guest post, we’ll provide practice NCLEX questions focused on spinal cord injuries along with rationales to enhance your understanding. spinal cord injury practice nclex questions
Practice Questions
Question 1
A 28-year-old patient has sustained a spinal cord injury at the C4 level. Which of the following assessments is the highest priority for the nurse?
A) Sensation in the upper and lower extremities
B) Respiratory function
C) Ability to perform range of motion exercises
D) Blood pressure control
Correct Answer: B) Respiratory function
Rationale: A C4 spinal cord injury can severely compromise respiratory function due to the involvement of the diaphragm, which is innervated by the C3-C5 spinal nerves. Monitoring respiratory status is critical in these patients.
Question 2
After a spinal cord injury, a patient has developed autonomic dysreflexia. What is the appropriate nursing intervention?
A) Raise the patient’s legs to improve circulation
B) Administer antihypertensive medication
C) Identify and remove the triggering stimulus
D) Prepare the patient for intubation
Correct Answer: C) Identify and remove the triggering stimulus
Rationale: Autonomic dysreflexia is a medical emergency characterized by sudden high blood pressure caused by noxious stimuli below the level of the injury. Identifying and alleviating the stimulus (e.g., full bladder, skin irritation) is crucial.
Question 3
A nurse is caring for a patient with a spinal cord injury who is experiencing bowel incontinence. Which intervention is most effective for managing this condition?
A) Administering a laxative daily
B) Implementing a bowel training program
C) Encouraging a high-fiber diet
D) Inserting a rectal tube
Correct Answer: B) Implementing a bowel training program
Rationale: A bowel training program is the most effective method for managing bowel incontinence in patients with spinal cord injuries. It aids in establishing a regular pattern and helps the patient learn to control bowel movements.
Question 4
A patient with a T6 spinal cord injury is at risk for developing which of the following complications?
A) Pneumonia
B) Deep vein thrombosis (DVT)
C) Chronic pain syndrome
D) All of the above
Correct Answer: D) All of the above
Rationale: Patients with spinal cord injuries, particularly at T6 and above, are at risk for multiple complications, including pneumonia due to impaired respiratory function, DVT due to immobility, and chronic pain syndrome due to nerve damage.
Question 5
In the management of a patient with a spinal cord injury, what is the primary goal of rehabilitation?
A) Complete recovery of all motor functions
B) Restoration of independence in activities of daily living (ADLs)
C) Prevention of complications
D) Improvement in emotional well-being
Correct Answer: B) Restoration of independence in activities of daily living (ADLs)
Rationale: The primary goal of rehabilitation for spinal cord injury patients is to maximize their independence and quality of life through functional recovery, enabling them to perform ADLs.
Conclusion
Mastering the complexities of spinal cord injuries is vital for nursing practice, especially in preparing for the NCLEX. Utilizing practice questions focused on SCIs will enhance your critical thinking and clinical judgment skills. spinal cord injury practice nclex questions
For more in-depth resources and practice materials, consider exploring platforms like Next Generation NCLEX, which provide tailored content to help you excel in your exam and future nursing career. Good luck on your journey to becoming a licensed nurse! spinal cord injury practice nclex questions
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