Preparing for the NCLEX-PN (National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nurses) exam? Pathology is one of the areas our deck drills hardest: 420 of its 1019 flashcards focus on pathology, covering topics like PND, Paroxysmal Nocturnal Dyspnea. Try the sample questions below — every card is a real question-and-answer pair from the full deck.
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A client at 32 weeks gestation has a BP of 142/92 and 1+ proteinuria. What is the underlying pathophysiological process distinguishing preeclampsia from gestational hypertension?
Show answer →Preeclampsia involves multi-system involvement beyond just elevated BP. The hallmark is generalized vasospasm and endothelial cell damage, leading to reduced organ perfusion. While gestational hypertension is characterized solely by BP >140/90 after 20 weeks, preeclampsia usually includes proteinuria OR new-onset systemic signs (thrombocytopenia, renal insufficiency, impaired liver function). NCLEX Strategy: NCSBN focuses on the new-onset nature after 20 weeks. Distinguish from chronic HTN (pre-existing).
A newborn is 24 hours old and exhibiting a high-pitched cry, sneezing, tachypnea, and poor feeding. The mother has a history of opioid use. What is the priority nursing action?
Show answer →The infant is showing signs of Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome (NAS). Priority: Minimize environmental stimuli (dim lights, quiet room) and provide frequent, small feedings. NCLEX-PN Strategy: NCSBN focuses on non-pharmacological comfort measures first. Use the Finnegan Scoring System or Eat, Sleep, Console (ESC) model to determine if pharmacological intervention (e.g., morphine) is needed.
A client with HF reports waking up gasping for air two hours after falling asleep. What is the pathological mechanism behind Paroxysmal Nocturnal Dyspnea (PND)?
Show answer →PND is caused by the redistribution of fluid from the lower extremities into the systemic circulation when the client lies flat. Pathophysiology: This increases venous return (preload) to the heart. A failing left ventricle cannot handle this sudden volume increase, leading to acute pulmonary congestion while sleeping. NCLEX-PN Tip: Always ask clients How many pillows do you sleep on? to assess for orthopnea or PND.
In a client with advanced cirrhosis, the PN notes the presence of asterixis. What does this clinical finding indicate regarding the client's laboratory values and neurological status?
Show answer →Asterixis (flapping tremors) is a hallmark sign of Hepatic Encephalopathy caused by elevated serum ammonia levels. The liver cannot convert ammonia to urea for excretion. Ammonia crosses the blood-brain barrier, causing neurotoxicity. Assessment: Have the client extend arms and dorsiflex wrists; a flapping motion is positive. Priority: Monitor for worsening confusion or coma.
After inserting an indwelling catheter for acute urinary retention (1200 mL) due to BPH, the LPN notes a urine output of 300 mL/hr. What is this phenomenon called and what is the priority risk?
Show answer →Post-obstructive diuresis. Sudden relief of chronic obstruction can trigger a massive diuresis as the kidneys regain function and clear accumulated solutes. Priority: Monitor for hypotension, hypokalemia, and hyponatremia. The LPN must report rapid output (>200mL/hr) to the RN/Provider. NCLEX Strategy: Safety first—rapid fluid loss leads to circulatory collapse.
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The full NCLEX-PN deck contains 1019 flashcards, and 420 of them focus on pathology. This page shows 5 free samples.
Our NCLEX-PN deck dedicates 420 of 1019 cards (41%) to pathology — always cross-check the official NCSBN exam outline for the current blueprint weighting.
Yes — the samples on this page are free, and the NCLEX-PN preview page has 30 more free cards. Full access to all 1019 cards is a one-time $7.