NCLEX-RN practice questions and answers 2026. Tap an option to test yourself — you'll see the correct answer and a plain-English explanation for every question. Free, no login.
Q21The nurse is teaching about fall prevention for an older adult at home. Which instruction is most important?
✓ Correct answer: B. Remove loose throw rugs and clutter from walkways
Removing throw rugs and clutter eliminates common tripping hazards. Adequate lighting should be available day and night, footwear should be non-skid and secure, and rising slowly prevents orthostatic dizziness.
Q22A nurse discovers a small electrical fire in a client's room. Using the RACE protocol, what is the first action?
✓ Correct answer: C. Rescue and remove the client from immediate danger
RACE stands for Rescue, Alarm, Confine, Extinguish. The first priority is to rescue/remove anyone in immediate danger, then activate the alarm, confine the fire by closing doors, and finally extinguish if safe.
Q23Which personal protective equipment (PPE) should the nurse remove first when exiting a client's room?
✓ Correct answer: A. Gloves
When doffing PPE, gloves are removed first because they are most contaminated. The recommended order is gloves, then goggles/face shield, then gown, then mask/respirator (removed last, outside the room).
Q24A nurse prepares to administer a high-alert medication. Which safety practice is most appropriate?
✓ Correct answer: D. Have a second nurse independently verify the dose
High-alert medications (e.g., insulin, heparin, opioids) carry a heightened risk of harm. An independent double-check by a second qualified nurse reduces dosing errors. Doses should never be rushed, copied, or rounded for convenience.
Q25The nurse notes a client's wristband indicates a latex allergy. Which action is appropriate?
✓ Correct answer: B. Ensure latex-free supplies are used for all care
A documented latex allergy requires latex-free supplies for all care to prevent a potentially life-threatening allergic reaction. The allergy band must remain in place to alert all staff.
Q26A nurse is reviewing safe practices for preventing catheter-associated urinary tract infections. Which action is most effective?
✓ Correct answer: C. Remove the indwelling catheter as soon as it is no longer needed
Early removal of an unnecessary catheter is the single most effective measure to prevent CAUTI. Routine irrigation and unnecessary disconnection introduce pathogens, and the bag must stay below bladder level to prevent backflow.
Q27A client receiving a blood transfusion develops chills, fever, and low back pain 15 minutes after it begins. What is the nurse's first action?
✓ Correct answer: A. Stop the transfusion immediately
These signs suggest an acute transfusion reaction. The nurse must stop the transfusion immediately to limit exposure, keep the IV line open with normal saline, and notify the provider and blood bank. Continuing the transfusion could be fatal.
Q28Which action best demonstrates correct use of standard precautions?
✓ Correct answer: D. Performing hand hygiene before and after every client contact
Standard precautions apply to all clients regardless of diagnosis; hand hygiene before and after every contact is foundational. Needles are never recapped by hand, gowns are not reused between clients, and gloves are used whenever contact with body fluids is possible.
Q29A nurse is caring for a client with neutropenia. Which intervention is appropriate?
✓ Correct answer: B. Avoid serving raw fruits and vegetables
Neutropenic clients are highly susceptible to infection. Raw produce, fresh flowers/plants, ill visitors, and crowds all introduce pathogens and should be avoided (neutropenic precautions).
Q30The nurse is preparing to move a heavy, immobile client up in bed. Which action protects both the nurse and the client?
✓ Correct answer: C. Use a friction-reducing device and ask for assistance
Using a friction-reducing device (e.g., a draw sheet or slide sheet) with additional staff reduces injury risk for both the nurse and client. Bending at the waist, lifting alone, and pulling under the arms cause injury.
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