NICU Patient-Based Scenario Questions for NCLEX Exam

NICU Patient-Based Scenario Questions for NCLEX Exam: A Focus on Respiratory Support, Neonatal Assessment, Nutrition Management, Family Support, and Medication Administration

The National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX) is a crucial exam for aspiring nurses, and NICU (Neonatal Intensive Care Unit) scenarios are a significant part of the test to assess candidates' knowledge, skills, and critical thinking abilities in neonatal care. In this article, we will delve into five subtopics related to NICU patient-based scenario questions for the NCLEX exam: respiratory support, neonatal assessment, nutrition management, family support, and medication administration.

Respiratory Support

1. A NICU patient is diagnosed with respiratory distress syndrome (RDS). Which of the following strategies is considered the initial management for this condition? a) Oxygen therapy alone b) Oxygen therapy and surfactant administration c) Endotracheal intubation and mechanical ventilation d) Antibiotics and chest physiotherapy

2. How does the nurse monitor and respond to changes in arterial blood gas (ABG) values for a NICU patient on mechanical ventilation?

3. Which respiratory support device is commonly used in NICUs for continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy?

Neonatal Assessment

4. A NICU nurse assesses a newborn with jaundice. Which factors should be considered when determining the severity of jaundice? a) Bilirubin level b) Age of the infant c) Birth weight d) Duration of jaundice

5. In which neonatal assessment tool can the nurse utilize to evaluate the overall health and well-being of a NICU patient?

Nutrition Management

6. A NICU patient is receiving enteral nutrition through a feeding tube. Which of the following feeding protocols is recommended for this patient? a) Bolus feeding b) Slow continuous feeding c) Cyclic feeding d) Gavage feeding

7. How does a nurse assess the tolerance and effectiveness of enteral nutrition in a NICU patient?

8. What is the primary goal of parenteral nutrition in a NICU patient, and which nutrients are commonly included in the parenteral nutrition formulations?

Family Support

9. A NICU family is experiencing anxiety and stress due to their premature infant's condition. Which of the following interventions can help support the family's emotional well-being? a) Educational resources b) Support groups c) Family-centered rounds d) Spiritual care services

10. How does a nurse facilitate communication between the NICU team and a family during rounds?

Medication Administration

11. A NICU patient is receiving multiple medications. What strategies can help ensure accurate medication administration and minimize the risk of errors?

12. Which medication administration method is preferred for NICU patients to reduce the risk of infection and adverse reactions?

13. A NICU patient is receiving an intravenous medication that needs to be administered over a specific period. Which monitoring tools should the nurse use to ensure the medication is being delivered at the correct rate?

By preparing for these types of questions, nurses can strengthen their knowledge and skills in caring for NICU patients, ultimately leading to higher levels of patient safety and better family-centered care.