PCCN Medical Conditions & Symptoms

Question 1

Which clinical manifestation is most concerning in a patient with suspected sepsis?

Accepted Answer

Blood pressure 86/52 mmHg

Answer

Warm, flushed skin

Answer

White blood cell count of 11,000/mm³

Answer

Heart rate of 88 bpm

Question 2

A diabetic patient presents with fruity-smelling breath, confusion, and rapid, deep respirations. Which condition should the nurse suspect?

Accepted Answer

Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA)

Answer

Hypoglycemia

Answer

Hyperosmolar hyperglycemic syndrome (HHS)

Answer

Metabolic alkalosis

Question 3

Which symptom is most specific for myocardial infarction (MI) in older adult women?

Accepted Answer

Jaw pain and fatigue

Answer

Crushing chest pain

Answer

Left arm numbness

Answer

Bradycardia

Question 4

Which electrolyte imbalance is most associated with mental status changes and muscle cramps?

Accepted Answer

Hyponatremia

Answer

Hypernatremia

Answer

Hyperkalemia

Answer

Hypocalcemia

Question 5

What is a priority nursing concern in a patient with suspected deep vein thrombosis (DVT)?

Accepted Answer

Potential for pulmonary embolism

Answer

Activity intolerance

Answer

Risk for bleeding

Answer

Fluid volume excess

Question 6

A patient with chronic kidney disease reports nausea, fatigue, and a metallic taste. Which lab result supports uremia?

Accepted Answer

BUN 80 mg/dL

Answer

Creatinine 0.9 mg/dL

Answer

Hematocrit 42%

Answer

Sodium 140 mEq/L

Question 7

A patient with a history of adrenal insufficiency presents with hypotension, weakness, and hyperpigmentation. What is the likely diagnosis?

Accepted Answer

Addisonian crisis

Answer

Graves’ disease

Answer

Myxedema coma

Answer

Cushing syndrome

Question 8

Which sign is most associated with increased intracranial pressure (ICP)?

Accepted Answer

Widening pulse pressure and bradycardia

Answer

Tachycardia

Answer

Hypotension

Answer

Diaphoresis

Question 9

In a patient with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), which symptom suggests the need for hospitalization?

Accepted Answer

Use of accessory muscles to breathe

Answer

Cough with white sputum

Answer

Dyspnea on exertion

Answer

Barrel-shaped chest