Why Medical-Surgical Nursing Is the Make-or-Break Section for RRB Nursing Superintendent Aspirants
If you are preparing for the RRB Nursing Superintendent or Staff Nurse recruitment, you already know that the Professional Ability section carries a massive 70% weightage in the Computer-Based Test (CBT). Within this section, Medical-Surgical Nursing (Adult & Geriatrics) alone contributes 20–25 questions, making it the single most important subject in your preparation strategy.
The RRB exam does not just test rote memorization. Recent RRB nursing exam questions from the 2025 cycle revealed a strong emphasis on clinical application: wound healing stages, CPR timing, hypocalcemia recognition, postoperative respiratory assessment, and emergency prioritization. This is exactly why relying solely on rrb nursing superintendent previous year question paper PDFs is not enough. you need conceptual clarity backed by nursing MCQs that train you to think like a clinician.
This quiz has been designed to bridge that gap. Whether you are revising for NCLEX, a state licensure exam, or the upcoming RRB nursing exam, these 50 questions cover the highest-yield topics: cardiovascular disorders, respiratory emergencies, endocrine crises, gastrointestinal care, neurological assessment, renal function, musculoskeletal trauma, and perioperative nursing.
Before you begin, bookmark these related resources on our blog for a complete revision cycle:
- Medical-Surgical Nursing Quiz: 50 High-Yield MCQs with Answers
- AIIMS Bhubaneswar Project Nurse Recruitment 2026: Eligibility & Apply Link
- RGSSH Assistant Nursing Superintendent Recruitment: Full Details
- AIIMS Delhi Staff Nurse Recruitment 2026: Vacancy & Exam Pattern
Now, let’s get into the quiz. Attempt all 50 questions in one sitting to simulate exam conditions, then review the explanations carefully. Every rationale is written to help you understand why the correct option is right and why the distractors are wrong.
Section A: Cardiovascular Nursing (Questions 1–8)
Question 1
A 58-year-old male is admitted with acute decompensated heart failure. He has bilateral crackles up to the mid-scapular level, an SpO₂ of 88% on room air, and pink frothy sputum. Which nursing intervention should be prioritized first?
A) Administer intravenous furosemide 40 mg as prescribed
B) Place the patient in high-Fowler’s position and apply supplemental oxygen
C) Obtain a 12-lead ECG and troponin level
D) Insert an indwelling urinary catheter to monitor output
Correct Answer: B
Explanation: The patient is showing signs of acute pulmonary edema. Immediate oxygenation and positioning to reduce venous return (high-Fowler’s) are the priority before pharmacological or diagnostic interventions. Furosemide (A) is important but should follow airway and breathing stabilization. ECG and troponin (C) help rule out myocardial infarction but do not address the immediate hypoxia. A catheter (D) is useful for monitoring but is not life-saving at this moment.
Question 2
Which ECG finding is most characteristic of hypokalemia?
A) Peaked T waves
B) Prolonged PR interval
C) Prominent U waves
D) Widened QRS complex
Correct Answer: C
Explanation: Hypokalemia classically produces flattened T waves, ST depression, and prominent U waves. Peaked T waves (A) are the hallmark of hyperkalemia. A prolonged PR interval (B) is seen in first-degree heart block and hypocalcemia. A widened QRS (D) is more consistent with severe hyperkalemia or sodium channel blockade.
Question 3
A patient on digoxin therapy reports nausea, anorexia, and visual changes described as “yellow halos.” The nurse should suspect:
A) Digoxin toxicity
B) Hypokalemia
C) Worsening heart failure
D) Digitalis immune reaction
Correct Answer: A
Explanation: Anorexia, nausea, and visual disturbances (yellow-green halos or blurred vision) are classic early signs of digoxin toxicity. While hypokalemia (B) potentiates toxicity, it is not the primary diagnosis here. Worsening heart failure (C) would present with dyspnea, edema, and fatigue rather than visual halos. There is no such entity as “digitalis immune reaction” (D).
Question 4
In a patient with a suspected abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA), which assessment finding is most concerning for impending rupture?
A) A pulsatile abdominal mass
B) Sudden onset of severe back pain with hypotension
C) Bilateral lower extremity edema
D) A bruit auscultated over the abdomen
Correct Answer: B
Explanation: Sudden severe back or flank pain accompanied by hypotension in a patient with a known or suspected AAA signals possible rupture and hypovolemic shock- a surgical emergency. A pulsatile mass (A) and a bruit (D) are expected findings in an intact aneurysm. Bilateral edema (C) is non-specific and not a rupture sign.
Question 5
Which medication is contraindicated in a patient with a confirmed ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) who also has a history of severe asthma?
A) Aspirin
B) Metoprolol
C) Nitroglycerin
D) Heparin
Correct Answer: B
Explanation: Non-selective beta-blockers like metoprolol can precipitate bronchospasm and are contraindicated in severe asthma. Aspirin (A), nitroglycerin (C), and heparin (D) are standard STEMI therapies and do not carry the same absolute contraindication in asthma.
Question 6
A patient with chronic stable angina is prescribed sublingual nitroglycerin. Which instruction is incorrect?
A) “Take one tablet at the onset of chest pain.”
B) “Call emergency services if pain persists after 5 minutes of the first dose.”
C) “Swallow the tablet whole with a glass of water.”
D) “Sit or lie down before taking the medication.”
Correct Answer: C
Explanation: Sublingual nitroglycerin must be dissolved under the tongue for rapid absorption—swallowing it destroys its effectiveness through first-pass hepatic metabolism. Options A, B, and D are all correct instructions: prompt use, emergency activation if pain persists, and positioning to prevent syncope from hypotension.
Question 7
Which clinical manifestation is most specific to left-sided heart failure?
A) Dependent peripheral edema
B) Jugular venous distension
C) Hepatomegaly
D) Pulmonary crackles and orthopnea
Correct Answer: D
Explanation: Left-sided heart failure causes pulmonary congestion, leading to crackles, orthopnea, and paroxysmal nocturnal dyspnea. Peripheral edema (A), JVD (B), and hepatomegaly (C) are signs of right-sided heart failure.
Question 8
A post-operative patient develops sudden-onset pleuritic chest pain, tachycardia, and hypoxemia on day 3 after a total hip replacement. What is the first action the nurse should take?
A) Ambulate the patient to rule out muscle spasm
B) Administer prescribed analgesics and reassess in 30 minutes
C) Apply supplemental oxygen and notify the provider immediately
D) Perform passive range-of-motion exercises on the affected leg
Correct Answer: C
Explanation: The clinical picture strongly suggests pulmonary embolism (PE), a life-threatening complication of immobility after orthopedic surgery. Immediate oxygenation and urgent provider notification are essential. Ambulation (A) and passive ROM (D) are dangerous if a clot is present. Delaying with analgesics (B) could be fatal.
Section B: Respiratory Nursing (Questions 9–16)
Question 9
A patient with COPD has an oxygen saturation of 86% on room air. The nurse should administer oxygen cautiously because:
A) High-flow oxygen can suppress the hypoxic drive in chronic CO₂ retainers
B) Oxygen worsens bronchospasm in COPD
C) COPD patients have a fixed cardiac output
D) Oxygen increases mucus production
Correct Answer: A
Explanation: In a subset of COPD patients with chronic hypercapnia, the respiratory drive is stimulated by hypoxia rather than hypercapnia. Excessive oxygen can blunt this drive and cause hypoventilation. Oxygen does not worsen bronchospasm (B), and options C and D are not physiologically accurate in this context.
Question 10
Which finding is most suggestive of tension pneumothorax?
A) Tracheal deviation toward the affected side
B) Tracheal deviation away from the affected side with hypotension
C) Bilateral crackles
D) Dullness to percussion on the affected side
Correct Answer: B
Explanation: Tension pneumothorax causes mediastinal shift away from the affected side, along with hypotension, distended neck veins, and absent breath sounds. Tracheal deviation toward the affected side (A) occurs in atelectasis. Crackles (C) are not typical. Dullness (D) suggests pleural effusion or consolidation, not pneumothorax (which is hyperresonant).
Question 11
A patient with active pulmonary tuberculosis is started on rifampicin. Which side effect should the nurse specifically counsel the patient about?
A) Orange-red discoloration of urine, sweat, and tears
B) Irreversible hearing loss
C) Peripheral neuropathy
D) Optic neuritis
Correct Answer: A
Explanation: Rifampicin is notorious for causing harmless orange-red discoloration of body fluids, including urine, sweat, and tears, which can permanently stain contact lenses. Hearing loss (B) is associated with streptomycin, peripheral neuropathy (C) with isoniazid, and optic neuritis (D) with ethambutol.
Question 12
Which position is most appropriate for a patient with a large unilateral pleural effusion to improve ventilation?
A) Lying flat on the affected side
B) Sitting upright, leaning slightly forward
C) Trendelenburg position
D) Prone position
Correct Answer: B
Explanation: An upright, slightly forward-leaning position maximizes lung expansion by allowing the diaphragm to descend and reducing compression from the effusion. Lying on the affected side (A) can further compromise the unaffected lung. Trendelenburg (C) impairs ventilation. Prone (D) is used in ARDS but is not the first-line positioning for pleural effusion.
Question 13
A patient is receiving mechanical ventilation. The high-pressure alarm suddenly sounds. Which cause should the nurse investigate first?
A) A leak in the ventilator circuit
B) The patient biting on the endotracheal tube
C) Low oxygen supply pressure
D) The patient is disconnected from the ventilator
Correct Answer: B
Explanation: A high-pressure alarm indicates increased resistance to airflow. Common causes include biting the tube, kinked tubing, secretions, or bronchospasm. A circuit leak (A), low oxygen supply (C), and disconnection (D) typically trigger low-pressure or apnea alarms, not high-pressure alarms.
Question 14
Which acid-base disturbance is expected in a patient with severe prolonged vomiting?
A) Metabolic acidosis
B) Metabolic alkalosis
C) Respiratory acidosis
D) Respiratory alkalosis
Correct Answer: B
Explanation: Prolonged vomiting leads to loss of gastric hydrochloric acid (H⁺ and Cl⁻), causing a hypochloremic metabolic alkalosis. Metabolic acidosis (A) would occur with bicarbonate loss (e.g., diarrhea). Respiratory disturbances (C and D) involve CO₂ retention or blow-off, which is not the primary issue here.
Question 15
A patient with acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) is most likely to present with:
A) Increased pulmonary compliance
B) Refractory hypoxemia despite supplemental oxygen
C) Hypercapnia as the earliest blood gas abnormality
D) Unilateral infiltrates on chest X-ray
Correct Answer: B
Explanation: ARDS is characterized by non-cardiogenic pulmonary edema and refractory hypoxemia - oxygenation does not improve easily with supplemental O₂ due to intrapulmonary shunting. Compliance is decreased (A), not increased. Hypoxemia precedes hypercapnia (C), and infiltrates are typically bilateral (D), not unilateral.
Question 16
Which instruction is most important for a patient using a metered-dose inhaler (MDI) with a spacer?
A) Inhale rapidly and forcefully after activating the canister
B) Wait 30 seconds between puffs of the same medication
C) Rinse the mouth with water after inhaling a corticosteroid
D) Store the inhaler in a hot car to keep the medication dissolved
Correct Answer: C
Explanation: Rinsing the mouth after inhaled corticosteroids prevents oropharyngeal candidiasis (thrush). A slow, deep inhalation (not rapid) is recommended (A). The typical wait between puffs is 30–60 seconds, but option C is the most critical safety instruction. Heat can damage the canister (D).
Section C: Endocrine Nursing (Questions 17–24)
Question 17
A patient with type 1 diabetes presents with blood glucose of 480 mg/dL, pH 7.20, serum bicarbonate of 12 mEq/L, and positive serum ketones. Which intervention is the priority?
A) Administer a bolus of intravenous sodium bicarbonate
B) Begin an intravenous insulin infusion and aggressive fluid resuscitation
C) Administer oral hypoglycemic agents
D) Restrict fluids to prevent cerebral edema
Correct Answer: B
Explanation: This is diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA). The cornerstones of management are IV fluid resuscitation and an insulin infusion to close the ketone gap and lower glucose. Bicarbonate (A) is controversial and reserved for severe acidosis (pH < 6.9). Oral agents (C) are ineffective in DKA. Fluid restriction (D) is harmful; these patients are profoundly dehydrated.
Question 18
Which sign is most characteristic of hypocalcemia?
A) Hyperreflexia and positive Trousseau’s sign
B) Flaccid paralysis
C) Hypertension and bradycardia
D) Polyuria and polydipsia
Correct Answer: A
Explanation: Hypocalcemia increases neuromuscular excitability, producing hyperreflexia, tetany, and a positive Trousseau’s or Chvostek’s sign. Flaccid paralysis (B) is more consistent with hyperkalemia. Hypertension and bradycardia (C) are not typical. Polyuria and polydipsia (D) suggest hyperglycemia or diabetes insipidus.
Question 19
A patient with Graves’ disease is scheduled for a subtotal thyroidectomy. Which pre-operative medication is given to reduce the risk of thyroid storm?
A) Levothyroxine
B) Methimazole and a beta-blocker
C) Radioactive iodine alone
D) Calcium gluconate
Correct Answer: B
Explanation: Pre-operative preparation for thyroidectomy includes antithyroid drugs (methimazole or propylthiouracil) to reduce hormone synthesis and beta-blockers to control sympathetic symptoms. Levothyroxine (A) would worsen hyperthyroidism. Radioactive iodine (C) is a definitive treatment but is not used immediately before surgery in this manner. Calcium gluconate (D) manages post-operative hypocalcemia, not pre-operative preparation.
Question 20
Which finding should the nurse monitor most closely in the first 24 hours after a thyroidectomy?
A) Signs of hypocalcemia and tracheal compression
B) Hyperactive bowel sounds
C) Polyuria
D) Jaundice
Correct Answer: A
Explanation: Post-thyroidectomy complications include hypocalcemia (from inadvertent parathyroid removal) and hematoma causing tracheal compression. Both are life-threatening and require close monitoring. Bowel sounds (B), polyuria (C), and jaundice (D) are not the primary concerns in the immediate post-operative period for this surgery.
Question 21
A patient with Addison’s disease is at risk for which life-threatening emergency?
A) Hypertensive crisis
B) Adrenal crisis with hypotension and hyperkalemia
C) Thyroid storm
D) Hyperglycemic hyperosmolar state
Correct Answer: B
Explanation: Addison’s disease (primary adrenal insufficiency) can precipitate an adrenal crisis during stress, infection, or steroid withdrawal, presenting with profound hypotension, hyponatremia, hyperkalemia, and hypoglycemia. Hypertensive crisis (A) and thyroid storm (C) are unrelated. HHS (D) is a complication of diabetes, not Addison’s.
Question 22
Which dietary instruction is appropriate for a patient with hypothyroidism?
A) Increase intake of iodine-rich foods such as kelp
B) Maintain a low-fiber diet to prevent diarrhea
C) Increase fiber and fluid intake to prevent constipation
D) Restrict all carbohydrates
Correct Answer: C
Explanation: Hypothyroidism slows gastrointestinal motility, leading to constipation. A high-fiber diet with adequate fluids helps manage this. Excessive iodine (A) can worsen autoimmune thyroid disease. A low-fiber diet (B) would exacerbate constipation. Carbohydrate restriction (D) is not a standard recommendation unless there is concurrent diabetes.
Question 23
A patient with syndrome of inappropriate antidiuretic hormone (SIADH) is likely to exhibit:
A) Hypernatremia and polyuria
B) Hyponatremia and concentrated urine
C) Hyperkalemia and metabolic acidosis
D) Hypercalcemia and renal stones
Correct Answer: B
Explanation: SIADH causes excessive water retention, leading to dilutional hyponatremia and inappropriately concentrated urine. Hypernatremia and polyuria (A) suggest diabetes insipidus. Hyperkalemia and acidosis (C) suggest adrenal insufficiency. Hypercalcemia (D) is unrelated to SIADH.
Question 24
Which medication should the nurse question before administration to a patient with type 2 diabetes and chronic kidney disease (eGFR 25 mL/min)?
A) Insulin glargine
B) Metformin
C) Sitagliptin
D) Aspirin
Correct Answer: B
Explanation: Metformin is contraindicated in significant renal impairment (eGFR < 30 mL/min) due to the risk of lactic acidosis. Insulin (A) is safe and often necessary. Sitagliptin (C) requires dose adjustment but is not absolutely contraindicated. Aspirin (D) at low doses is generally safe for cardiovascular protection.
Section D: Gastrointestinal & Renal Nursing (Questions 25–32)
Question 25
A patient with a new ileostomy should be monitored for which electrolyte imbalance?
A) Hyperkalemia
B) Hypernatremia
C) Hypokalemia and hyponatremia
D) Hypercalcemia
Correct Answer: C
Explanation: Ileostomy output is rich in sodium and potassium. Excessive losses can lead to hypokalemia and hyponatremia, especially in the early post-operative period. Hyperkalemia (A) is more associated with renal failure or tissue breakdown. Hypernatremia (B) is unlikely with high-output ostomies. Hypercalcemia (D) is unrelated.
Question 26
Which assessment finding is most concerning in a patient 6 hours after an appendectomy?
A) A dry incision with mild tenderness
B) Sudden spike in temperature to 39°C with rigid abdomen
C) Absence of bowel sounds
D) Serosanguineous drainage on the dressing
Correct Answer: B
Explanation: A high fever with a rigid abdomen suggests peritonitis or an intra-abdominal abscess, which may require urgent surgical intervention. Mild tenderness (A) and serosanguineous drainage (D) are expected post-operatively. Absent bowel sounds (C) are common immediately after abdominal surgery and typically resolve.
Question 27
A patient with cirrhosis and ascites is scheduled for a paracentesis. Which instruction should the nurse provide immediately after the procedure?
A) Ambulate frequently to prevent clot formation
B) Maintain bed rest and monitor for dizziness
C) Drink 2 liters of water immediately
D) Remove the dressing after 1 hour
Correct Answer: B
Explanation: Paracentesis can cause rapid fluid shifts and hypotension. Bed rest with monitoring for dizziness and vital signs is recommended. Ambulation (A) increases fall risk. Forcing fluids (C) is not indicated unless there is specific dehydration. The dressing should remain intact and be monitored for bleeding or leakage (D).
Question 28
Which laboratory value is most indicative of acute kidney injury (AKI)?
A) Blood urea nitrogen (BUN) of 15 mg/dL
B) Serum creatinine rising from 0.8 to 2.4 mg/dL over 48 hours
C) Serum potassium of 4.0 mEq/L
D) Urine specific gravity of 1.020
Correct Answer: B
Explanation: AKI is defined by a rapid rise in serum creatinine (≥0.3 mg/dL in 48 hours or ≥1.5 times baseline). A BUN of 15 (A) and potassium of 4.0 (C) are within normal limits. A specific gravity of 1.020 (D) is normal and does not indicate injury.
Question 29
A patient on hemodialysis has a clotted arteriovenous (AV) fistula. What is the first action?
A) Apply warm compresses and check for a thrill
B) Cannulate the fistula to aspirate the clot
C) Elevate the arm and apply pressure
D) Notify the dialysis team immediately
Correct Answer: D
Explanation: A clotted fistula is a vascular emergency requiring immediate notification of the dialysis team for possible thrombolysis or surgical revision. Warm compresses (A) may be used for infiltration, not clotting. Cannulation (B) by nursing staff is not appropriate for clot aspiration. Elevation and pressure (C) are not therapeutic for a clot.
Question 30
Which finding is most characteristic of acute glomerulonephritis?
A) Hypoalbuminemia and generalized edema
B) Cola-colored urine and hypertension
C) Polyuria and dilute urine
D) Hyperkalemia and metabolic alkalosis
Correct Answer: B
Explanation: Acute glomerulonephritis typically presents with hematuria (cola-colored urine), hypertension, and edema due to sodium and water retention. Hypoalbuminemia with generalized edema (A) is nephrotic syndrome. Polyuria (C) suggests diabetes insipidus or tubular damage. Hyperkalemia with alkalosis (D) is not typical.
Question 31
Which dietary restriction is most important for a patient with chronic kidney disease (CKD) who is not yet on dialysis?
A) Potassium and phosphorus
B) Calcium and vitamin D
C) Iron and folic acid
D) Omega-3 fatty acids
Correct Answer: A
Explanation: In CKD, impaired renal excretion leads to hyperkalemia and hyperphosphatemia, which can cause cardiac arrhythmias and renal osteodystrophy. Dietary restriction of potassium and phosphorus is a cornerstone of management. Calcium and vitamin D (B) are often supplemented, not restricted. Iron (C) and omega-3s (D) are not primary restrictions.
Question 32
A patient with severe gastroenteritis develops a serum potassium of 2.8 mEq/L. Which assessment finding is most consistent with this value?
A) Peaked T waves on ECG
B) Muscle weakness and a U wave on ECG
C) Hypertension and bradycardia
D) Hyperreflexia
Correct Answer: B
Explanation: Hypokalemia (K⁺ < 3.5 mEq/L) causes muscle weakness, fatigue, and ECG changes including flattened T waves, ST depression, and prominent U waves. Peaked T waves (A) indicate hyperkalemia. Hypertension and bradycardia (C) are not typical. Hyperreflexia (D) is associated with hypocalcemia or hyperkalemia, not hypokalemia.
Section E: Neurological & Musculoskeletal Nursing (Questions 33–40)
Question 33
Which finding is an early sign of increased intracranial pressure (ICP)?
A) Decerebrate posturing
B) Fixed, dilated pupils
C) Restlessness and altered level of consciousness
D) Loss of corneal reflex
Correct Answer: C
Explanation: The earliest sign of rising ICP is often a change in level of consciousness—restlessness, confusion, or drowsiness. Decerebrate posturing (A), fixed pupils (B), and loss of corneal reflex (D) are late, ominous signs indicating brainstem compression.
Question 34
A patient who had a stroke 2 days ago is now experiencing dysphagia. Which intervention is most important to prevent aspiration?
A) Encourage large sips of water to test swallow
B) Place the patient in a semi-recumbent position during meals
C) Perform a bedside swallow evaluation before any oral intake
D) Provide a straw for thin liquids
Correct Answer: C
Explanation: A bedside swallow evaluation by a qualified clinician must precede any oral intake in a post-stroke patient with suspected dysphagia to determine safety and appropriate texture. Testing with large sips (A) is dangerous. Semi-recumbent positioning (B) is helpful but not sufficient without evaluation. Straws (D) increase aspiration risk by delivering fluid too quickly.
Question 35
Which medication should be administered within 60 minutes of arrival for a patient with an acute ischemic stroke?
A) Intravenous heparin
B) Aspirin
C) Tissue plasminogen activator (tPA), if eligible
D) Oral warfarin
Correct Answer: C
Explanation: For eligible patients with acute ischemic stroke, IV tPA (alteplase or tenecteplase) should be administered as early as possible, ideally within 60 minutes of hospital arrival. Heparin (A) and warfarin (D) are not acute reperfusion therapies. Aspirin (B) is typically started within 24–48 hours but is not the time-critical emergency intervention.
Question 36
A patient with a C5 spinal cord injury is at highest risk for which complication?
A) Diaphragmatic breathing
B) Autonomic dysreflexia
C) Respiratory failure
D) Hyperreflexia below the level of injury
Correct Answer: C
Explanation: A C5 injury compromises the phrenic nerve (C3–C5), which innervates the diaphragm. These patients are at high risk for respiratory failure and often require ventilatory support. Autonomic dysreflexia (B) is more common with injuries at T6 or above but is not the highest immediate risk at C5. Hyperreflexia (D) is a later finding.
Question 37
Which assessment finding is most concerning in a patient with a newly applied plaster cast on the lower leg?
A) The cast feels warm and dry
B) The patient reports mild itching under the cast
C) The toes are pale, cool, and have decreased capillary refill
D) The cast has a small crack near the ankle
Correct Answer: C
Explanation: Pale, cool toes with delayed capillary refill indicate compromised arterial perfusion—a sign of compartment syndrome or cast tightness that requires immediate intervention. Warmth (A) and mild itching (B) are expected. A small crack (D) may need reinforcement but is not an emergency.
Question 38
A patient with osteoporosis is prescribed alendronate. Which instruction is essential?
A) Take the medication with breakfast and lie down for 30 minutes
B) Take it on an empty stomach with a full glass of water and remain upright for 30 minutes
C) Take it at bedtime with a calcium supplement
D) Crush the tablet and mix it with applesauce
Correct Answer: B
Explanation: Bisphosphonates like alendronate can cause severe esophageal irritation. They must be taken on an empty stomach with 6–8 oz of plain water, and the patient must remain upright (sitting or standing) for at least 30 minutes. Taking with food (A, C) reduces absorption. Crushing (D) increases esophageal exposure and is contraindicated.
Question 39
Which clinical finding is most consistent with a hip fracture in an older adult?
A) The affected leg is shortened and externally rotated
B) The affected leg is lengthened and internally rotated
C) Bilateral leg weakness without deformity
D) Localized warmth and erythema over the hip
Correct Answer: A
Explanation: A displaced hip fracture classically presents with a shortened, externally rotated affected extremity due to muscle pull. Lengthening with internal rotation (B) is more consistent with a posterior hip dislocation. Bilateral weakness (C) and warmth/erythema (D) are non-specific.
Question 40
A patient is receiving intravenous gentamicin. Which assessment parameter is most important to monitor for early detection of toxicity?
A) Serum creatinine and urine output
B) Liver function tests
C) Platelet count
D) Serum calcium
Correct Answer: A
Explanation: Aminoglycosides like gentamicin are nephrotoxic and ototoxic. Monitoring renal function (serum creatinine, BUN, urine output) allows early detection of nephrotoxicity. Liver function (B), platelets (C), and calcium (D) are not the primary parameters for gentamicin toxicity.
Section F: Perioperative, Oncologic & Emergency Nursing (Questions 41–50)
Question 41
Which action is the priority immediately after a patient returns to the unit following general anesthesia?
A) Assess the surgical site for bleeding
B) Maintain a patent airway and monitor oxygenation
C) Administer prescribed pain medication
D) Encourage early ambulation
Correct Answer: B
Explanation: Airway patency and oxygenation are the first priorities in the immediate post-anesthesia period. The patient may still have residual anesthetic effects, increasing aspiration and respiratory depression risk. Bleeding (A), pain (C), and ambulation (D) are important but follow the ABCs.
Question 42
A patient is scheduled for surgery and the nurse notices the consent form is signed but the patient appears confused about the procedure. What is the nurse’s best action?
A) Proceed with the surgery as scheduled since the form is signed
B) Notify the surgeon and hold the surgery until the patient is re-educated
C) Ask the family to sign a new consent form
D) Document the confusion and continue with pre-operative preparation
Correct Answer: B
Explanation: Informed consent requires that the patient understand the procedure, risks, benefits, and alternatives. If the patient is confused or lacks understanding, the nurse must advocate for the patient by notifying the surgeon and pausing the process. A signed form alone (A) is insufficient. Family members (C) cannot sign for an adult who lacks capacity unless legally designated. Documentation (D) without action is inappropriate.
Question 43
Which finding is most suggestive of malignant hyperthermia during surgery?
A) Gradual increase in blood pressure
B) Unexplained tachycardia, hypercapnia, and muscle rigidity
C) Hypothermia and bradycardia
D) Decreased end-tidal CO₂
Correct Answer: B
Explanation: Malignant hyperthermia is a life-threatening reaction to volatile anesthetics or succinylcholine, characterized by tachycardia, hypercapnia (elevated end-tidal CO₂), muscle rigidity, and hyperthermia. Hypotension (A) may occur late. Hypothermia and bradycardia (C) are opposite findings. End-tidal CO₂ is elevated, not decreased (D).
Question 44
A patient receiving chemotherapy develops a temperature of 38.5°C and an absolute neutrophil count (ANC) of 400/µL. What is the priority nursing action?
A) Administer antipyretics and reassess in 4 hours
B) Notify the provider immediately for suspected neutropenic fever
C) Encourage oral fluids and apply cooling blankets
D) Obtain a chest X-ray before any intervention
Correct Answer: B
Explanation: Neutropenic fever (ANC < 500/µL with fever) is an oncologic emergency requiring immediate provider notification and initiation of broad-spectrum antibiotics, often within 1 hour. Antipyretics (A) may mask the fever. Supportive measures (C) are adjuncts. Imaging (D) should not delay antibiotic administration.
Question 45
Which precaution is most important for a patient receiving external beam radiation therapy?
A) Maintain strict isolation for 7 days
B) Avoid close contact with pregnant women and children during the first 24 hours
C) Flush the toilet twice after each use
D) Use separate utensils and dishes
Correct Answer: B
Explanation: External beam radiation does not make the patient radioactive, but small amounts of radioactivity can persist briefly. Standard guidance includes limiting prolonged close contact with pregnant women and young children for a short period (often 24 hours). Strict isolation (A), double flushing (C), and separate utensils (D) are not required for external beam therapy (they may apply to brachytherapy or radiopharmaceuticals).
Question 46
A patient with a new colostomy has a stoma that appears dark purple and dry. What is the nurse’s first action?
A) Apply a lubricant to the stoma
B) Notify the surgeon immediately
C) Document the finding as a normal variation
D) Increase the frequency of ostomy pouch changes
Correct Answer: B
Explanation: A dark purple, dry, or black stoma indicates ischemia or necrosis and requires immediate surgical evaluation. A healthy stoma should be pink to red and moist. Lubricant (A), documentation without action (C), and pouch changes (D) do not address the underlying emergency.
Question 47
Which pain assessment finding is most consistent with acute compartment syndrome?
A) Pain that is relieved by elevation
B) Pain out of proportion to the injury, worsened by passive stretch
C) Numbness that resolves with massage
D) Mild discomfort controlled with oral analgesics
Correct Answer: B
Explanation: The hallmark of compartment syndrome is severe pain that is disproportionate to the injury and exacerbated by passive stretching of the affected muscles. Elevation (A) may worsen ischemia. Numbness (C) is a late sign. Mild pain (D) is not consistent with this emergency.
Question 48
A patient with a suspected cervical spine injury is brought to the emergency department. Which action is contraindicated?
A) Applying a rigid cervical collar
B) Log-rolling the patient for examination
C) Flexing the neck to open the airway
D) Maintaining manual in-line stabilization
Correct Answer: C
Explanation: Flexing the neck in a patient with a suspected cervical spine injury can cause irreversible spinal cord damage. The airway should be opened using a jaw-thrust maneuver without head tilt. A cervical collar (A), log-rolling (B), and manual stabilization (D) are appropriate.
Question 49
Which finding is most indicative of a tension pneumothorax that requires immediate needle decompression?
A) Unilateral wheezing
B) Severe respiratory distress, hypotension, and absent breath sounds on one side
C) Bilateral crackles and frothy sputum
D) Bradycardia and hypertension
Correct Answer: B
Explanation: Tension pneumothorax is a clinical diagnosis: severe respiratory distress, hypotension, absent breath sounds, and hyperresonance on the affected side. Immediate needle decompression is life-saving. Wheezing (A) suggests asthma or anaphylaxis. Crackles and frothy sputum (C) suggest pulmonary edema. Bradycardia with hypertension (D) suggests increased ICP (Cushing’s triad).
Question 50
Which statement by a patient scheduled for a colonoscopy indicates a need for further teaching?
A) “I will stop taking my iron supplements a week before the procedure.”
B) “I will drink the bowel prep solution until my stool is clear liquid.”
C) “I can eat a light breakfast on the morning of the procedure.”
D) “I will arrange for someone to drive me home after the sedation.”
Correct Answer: C
Explanation: A colonoscopy requires a clear liquid diet and fasting before the procedure; eating breakfast on the morning of the exam would compromise visualization and safety. Stopping iron (A), completing the bowel prep until clear (B), and arranging transportation after sedation (D) are all correct.
How to Use This Quiz to Maximize Your RRB Nursing Exam Score
Don’t just read the answers - actively engage with the rationales. For every question you get wrong, go back to the source concept and review it in your textbook or class notes. The RRB exam is known for mixing conceptual knowledge with situational judgment, so pay special attention to questions that ask about priority actions (e.g., Q1, Q8, Q41, Q44).
For a complete revision strategy, pair this quiz with our other resources:
- Medical-Surgical Nursing Quiz: 50 High-Yield MCQs with Answers
- AIIMS Delhi Staff Nurse Recruitment 2026: Vacancy & Exam Pattern
Finally, remember that negative marking is ⅓ of a mark for each wrong answer. In the actual exam, skip questions where you can eliminate only one option and focus on your strengths. Accuracy beats blind guessing every time.
Bookmark this page, share it with a fellow aspirant, and come back to retake the quiz after a week spaced repetition is one of the most evidence-based study techniques for long-term retention.
Disclaimer: This quiz is an original educational resource created for exam preparation. While every effort has been made to ensure clinical accuracy, nursing practice should always follow current institutional protocols, latest evidence-based guidelines, and the prescribing clinician’s orders. This content is not a substitute for professional clinical judgment.



