Nace Exam

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Sample questions from Nace Exam

This material has 90 questions with answers and rationales. Here are the first 5.

1. 1.At change of shift on a medical unit, a 76-year-old client with pneumonia has an oxygen saturation of 88% on 2 L/min by nasal cannula, respiratory rate 30/min, and new confusion. Which action should the nurse take first?

   • A.Increase oxygen to 4 L/min and reassess in 30 minutes
   • B.Assess airway and breathing, then apply oxygen per protocol and summon assistance
   • C.Review the client's medication list for sedatives
   • D.Ask the unlicensed assistive personnel to obtain a complete set of vital signs

   Rationale: The new hypoxemia, tachypnea, and confusion indicate possible acute respiratory deterioration, so immediate assessment and oxygen support take priority. Waiting 30 minutes or delegating initial assessment delays treatment of an unstable client. Medication review is appropriate later, after breathing is addressed.

2. 2.On a surgical unit, a 52-year-old client scheduled for surgery says, "I signed the consent, but I do not understand the risks." What should the nurse do?

   • A.Ask the client's spouse to explain the procedure
   • B.Explain the surgical risks and ask the client to sign again
   • C.Notify the surgeon that the client needs more information before proceeding
   • D.Administer the prescribed preoperative sedative to reduce anxiety

   Rationale: The surgeon or procedural provider is responsible for explaining the procedure, risks, benefits, and alternatives. The nurse should pause the process and notify the provider when the client indicates inadequate understanding. A sedative or family explanation does not replace informed consent.

3. 3.Refer to the client's chart. Which actions are appropriate for the nurse to take? Select all that apply.

   • A.Obtain a blood glucose level promptly
   • B.Ask the family whether this confusion is typical
   • C.Apply a vest restraint to prevent the client from climbing out of bed
   • D.Notify the provider of the acute change in mental status
   • E.Assess oxygenation and review the client's medications

   Rationale: Acute confusion requires prompt assessment for reversible causes, including hypoglycemia, hypoxemia, medications, and baseline differences. The chart documents an abrupt change, so notifying the provider is appropriate. A restraint is not a first-line response and can worsen agitation or cause injury.

4. 4.Refer to the client's chart. Which actions should the nurse take in response to the current findings? Select all that apply.

   • A.Encourage the client to eat a banana
   • B.Verify the infusion and review medications that can increase potassium
   • C.Stop the potassium infusion immediately
   • D.Place the client on continuous cardiac monitoring
   • E.Notify the provider promptly about the potassium result and ECG changes

   Answer and rationale are in the full material.

5. 5.On a pediatric unit, a 9-year-old with cystic fibrosis is prescribed pancreatic enzymes with meals and snacks. Which statement by the parent indicates correct understanding?

   • A."I will stop the enzymes when the stools become normal."
   • B."I will give the enzymes at bedtime, away from food."
   • C."The capsules should be crushed and mixed into hot food."
   • D."My child should take the enzymes with every meal and snack."

   Answer and rationale are in the full material.