Tutor profile: Mary H.

When studying for the nursing certification exam, what is your best study tip?

I have 2 tips: #1 Don't wait until the last minute. Start weeks before, and tackle a subject a day, reviewing as needed. Don't try to over do-it in one day. #2 Take as many practice questions as possible. NCLEX exam questions can seem tricky. The more questions you tackle, the more you will get used to the style of questions. There is even a board game out with practice nursing questions. Get in the mindset of looking for the "best correct" answer, as at least 2 of the answers will seem correct, but one will be "more correct". Treat every question as if you work in the perfect hospital. There is unlimited staff and supplies, you have everything you could ever need to take care of the patient.

For patient's reporting pain, the nurse can implement non-pharmacological pain management methods in addition to any medications prescribed by the provider. Name at least 3 of non-pharmacological interventions for pain.

Non-pharmacological pain management techniques which may be helpful to the patient include music therapy, hot/cold therapy, therapeutic touch, massage therapy, aromatherapy, and guided imagery.

Pain control is often a hot topic in medicine. A patient asks what would be the best medication for his occasional tension headaches. The patient has a history of bleeding gastric ulcer in the past, but no other pertinent medical history. What medication would be good to recommend?

Considering no other medical history, Tylenol (acetaminophen) would be a good option for mild, occasional pain. The patient should be instructed to avoid NSAIDS such as Motrin, which could increase his risk of repeat ulceration and bleeding. Stronger pain medications such as narcotics are not indicated for mild pain, and should only be used when needed due to the potential for addiction. Assuming adequate liver function, caution the patient to limit Tylenol to a maximum of 4 grams daily.