Sample Nursing School Practice Questions

Try these questions from our free Nursing School practice tests. The correct answer and an explanation follow each question.

1. Which nursing intervention is the highest priority for a patient experiencing anaphylaxis?

   • A. Administer diphenhydramine (Benadryl) IV
   • B. Apply a cold compress to reduce swelling
   • C. Administer epinephrine and maintain airway
   • D. Elevate the head of the bed to 90 degrees

   Answer: C. Administer epinephrine and maintain airway

   Epinephrine is the first-line treatment for anaphylaxis and maintaining airway patency is the priority because airway compromise can be life-threatening.

2. A patient's urine output over 8 hours is 200 mL. How should the nurse interpret this finding?

   • A. Normal output for an 8-hour period
   • B. Slightly above average but acceptable
   • C. Oliguria — below the expected minimum output
   • D. Anuria — no urine is being produced

   Answer: C. Oliguria — below the expected minimum output

   Normal urine output is approximately 30 mL/hr; 200 mL over 8 hours (25 mL/hr) is below the minimum threshold and indicates oliguria.

3. A nurse applies standard precautions. Which patient condition requires droplet precautions in addition to standard precautions?

   • A. Influenza
   • B. Tuberculosis
   • C. C. difficile infection
   • D. MRSA wound infection

   Answer: A. Influenza

   Influenza is transmitted via respiratory droplets and therefore requires droplet precautions in addition to standard precautions.

4. Which action best demonstrates respect for a patient's autonomy?

   • A. Administering medication without explaining side effects
   • B. Allowing the patient to refuse treatment after being informed of the risks
   • C. Deciding the best treatment plan on behalf of the patient
   • D. Encouraging family members to make all care decisions

   Answer: B. Allowing the patient to refuse treatment after being informed of the risks

   Patient autonomy means the right to make informed decisions about their own care, including the right to refuse treatment.

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