Pathophysiology Practice Test 9
Pathophysiology NCLEX Practice Test
Pathophysiology is a key topic within the NCLEX test plan, located under Physiological Integrity → Physiological Adaptation → Pathophysiology. This section integrates disease mechanisms with nursing assessments and prioritized interventions. Each test contains 50 questions designed to mirror the difficulty and variety of the real exam.
This is the 9th part of the Pathophysiology series. To explore all practice tests under this topic, use the “Back to Main Topic” button at the end of the page.
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In the Pathophysiology Study Cards section, shared by real NCLEX candidates, you’ll find concise summaries and high-yield insights related to the most tested concepts. It’s a perfect space to reinforce challenging topics and sharpen your recall through quick, focused repetitions. Short, powerful, and repeatable!
Pathophysiology Practice Test 9
A patient with lung cancer is admitted to the ER for crackles in the lungs, sudden onset of confusion, and decreased urine output. Which of the following lab results is consistent with this complication?
- Na+ 151.
- Low ADH levels.
- Urine specific gravity of 1.035.
- K+ 3.5.
Explanation: Answer reason: Urine specific gravity of 1.035. The key principle is that SIADH (classically associated with small-cell lung cancer) causes excess water reabsorption, leading to dilutional hyponatremia, low serum osmolality, and inappropriately concentrated urine. Fluid retention can present with pulmonary crackles and decreased urine output, while acute hyponatremia can cause confusion due to cerebral edema. Concentrated urine is reflected by an elevated urine specific gravity, making this finding consistent with SIADH. A common distractor is hypernatremia with low ADH, which fits diabetes insipidus and would produce large volumes of dilute urine rather than oliguria and crackles.
The nurse performs a physical assessment on a client with type 2 diabetes mellitus. Findings include a fasting blood glucose level of 120 mg/dl (6.8 mmol/L), temperature of 101°F (38.3°C), pulse of 102 beats/minute, respirations of 22 breaths/minute, and blood pressure of 142/72 mm Hg. Which finding would be the priority concern to the nurse?
- Pulse
- Respiration
- Temperature
- Blood pressure
Explanation: Answer reason: g., dehydration and hyperglycemic crisis). A temperature of 101°F is an abnormal finding that often requires prompt focused assessment for infection source and timely intervention. The mildly elevated pulse and respirations can be expected physiologic responses to fever and stress, whereas the blood pressure is not immediately dangerous in this context. Prioritizing the potential underlying cause with the highest risk for rapid deterioration aligns with early recognition of complications.
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