Lowering the risk of complications from tests, procedures, and treatments. Try 8 free questions below, each with the answer, a rationale, and the source it was checked against.
9–15% of the NCLEX-RN113 questions in NCLEXSimReviewed October 2026
Reduction of Risk Potential is one of the eight client needs categories in the NCSBN NCLEX-RN test plan. Expect questions on Lab values, ABGs, Procedure prep, Post-op care, Vital sign changes, and Specimens.
Which hemoglobin A1C goal is reasonable for many nonpregnant adults with diabetes?
Correct answer: C
An A1C below 7% is a common goal for many nonpregnant adults. Goals are individualized, and less strict targets may be appropriate for older adults or those at risk for hypoglycemia.
Source: ADA. Standards of Care in Diabetes, Section 6 (glycemic goals)
A client is having synchronized cardioversion for atrial fibrillation. What must the nurse confirm before the shock?
Correct answer: D
Synchronization times the shock with the R wave to avoid the vulnerable period that could cause ventricular fibrillation. Clients are sedated and no one touches the bed.
Source: AHA. Guidelines for CPR and ECC (electrical therapy)
After an upper GI endoscopy, which finding should the nurse report right away?
Correct answer: A
Severe pain, fever, or difficulty swallowing after endoscopy may signal perforation. A mild sore throat and bloating are expected.
Source: Lewis's Medical-Surgical Nursing, 13th ed. (endoscopy)
Which findings should the nurse include in a neurovascular check of a casted leg? Select all that apply.
Correct answers: A, B, E, F
Neurovascular checks include color, temperature, capillary refill, pulses, sensation, movement, and pain, to detect compartment syndrome or impaired circulation early.
Source: Lewis's Medical-Surgical Nursing, 13th ed. (fracture care)
During neuro checks on a client with a head injury, the nurse finds a newly fixed and dilated right pupil. What does this suggest?
Correct answer: D
A new unilateral fixed, dilated pupil suggests compression of cranial nerve III from herniation. This is an emergency requiring immediate notification.
Source: Lewis's Medical-Surgical Nursing, 13th ed. (head injury)
Where should the nurse listen to obtain an apical pulse in an adult?
Correct answer: C
The apical pulse is heard at the point of maximal impulse, at the left 5th intercostal space, midclavicular line.
Source: Potter & Perry. Fundamentals of Nursing, 12th ed. (vital signs)
A client's blood pressure is 120/60 mm Hg. What is the mean arterial pressure (MAP)?
Answer: 80 mm Hg
MAP ≈ (SBP + 2 × DBP) ÷ 3 = (120 + 120) ÷ 3 = 80 mm Hg. A MAP of at least 65 mm Hg is generally needed to perfuse organs.
Source: Lewis's Medical-Surgical Nursing, 13th ed. (hemodynamic monitoring)
How should a client collect a sputum specimen for culture?
Correct answer: D
Early morning specimens contain more secretions. Rinsing with water (not mouthwash) reduces contamination, and deep coughing produces sputum rather than saliva.
Source: Pagana. Mosby's Manual of Diagnostic and Laboratory Tests (sputum culture)
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