NURSING TEST TAKING STRATEGY IV: TRUE and FALSE Response Questions

Board Exam TEST TAKING STRATEGY IV: TRUE and FALSE Response Questions

A. True response questions use key words that ask you to select an option that is accurate regarding the information in the question.

Practice Question: TRUE Response A client suspected of having meningitis is being scheduled for diagnostic tests. The nurse anticipates that which of the following diagnostic tests will most likely be prescribed to confirm the diagnosis? 1. Serum electrolytes 2. Electromyography 3. White blood cell count 4. Lumbar puncture Answer: 4 Test-Taking Strategy: This question identifies an example of a true response question. Note the key words most likely and confirm. Focus on the diagnosis presented in the question and the associated pathophysiology to assist in directing you to option 4. Remember, meningitis is an acute or chronic inflammation of the meninges and the cerebrospinal fluid. The key diagnostic test used in meningitis is Lumbar puncture. A white blood cell count and Serum electrolytes test also may be performed. Electromyography is not a key diagnostic test. Remember true response questions ask you to select an option that is accurate.

B. False response questions use key words that ask you to select an option that is not accurate regarding the information in the question.

Practice Question: FALSE Response Cortisone (Cortone) is prescribed for a client with adrenal insufficiency, and the nurse provides instructions to the client regarding the medication. Which of the following statements if made by the client would indicate a need for further instruction? “I will eat a good breakfast every day.” “I will avoid people with colds.” “I will limit my sodium intake.” “I will stop the medication when I feel better.” Answer: 4 Test-Taking Strategy: This question identifies an example of a false response question. Note the key words need for further instruction. These key words indicate that you should select an option that identifies an incorrect client statement. Glucocorticoids should not be abruptly discontinued to prevent acute adrenal insufficiency. You easily should be able to eliminate options 1, 2, and 3, remembering that the client should not stop these medications or in fact any medication without physician approval. Remember false response questions ask you to select an option that is not accurate regarding the information in the question.

C. Read every word in the question and be especially alert in noting key words that ask you to select an option that is not accurate regarding the information in the question.