The NUR 220 Exam 3 for 2026 is a pivotal assessment in the nursing curriculum, designed to evaluate students' comprehension and application of advanced health concepts. This examination encompasses a broad spectrum of topics, each integral to the formation of a proficient nursing professional.
Oncology Nursing
A significant portion of the exam delves into oncology nursing, emphasizing the nurse's role in managing patients with cancer. Students are expected to understand the pathophysiology of various cancers, including lung cancer, and the postoperative expectations following procedures such as a lobectomy. Knowledge of skin lesion characteristics—distinguishing between squamous cell carcinoma, basal cell carcinoma, malignant melanoma, and actinic keratosis—is essential. Furthermore, the exam assesses understanding of oncological emergencies like Syndrome of Inappropriate Antidiuretic Hormone Secretion (SIADH) and the calculation of Absolute Neutrophil Count (ANC) to evaluate a patient's immunological status.
Mental Health Nursing
The mental health component of the exam requires students to demonstrate proficiency in therapeutic communication and the management of various psychiatric disorders. This includes differentiating between schizophrenia and schizoaffective disorders, recognizing positive symptoms, and understanding treatment modalities such as Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT). Students must also be adept at identifying unusual speech patterns and distinguishing between hallucinations and delusions, ensuring appropriate nursing interventions are implemented.
Suicide Prevention and Intervention
An essential aspect of the exam is assessing the nurse's ability to identify potential suicide risks and implement safety measures. This involves understanding secondary interventions, prioritizing nursing actions, and recognizing tendencies that place individuals at risk. The ability to establish a therapeutic nurse-client relationship is paramount, with the primary goal being to build trust and provide a safe environment for the patient.
Pharmacology and Medication Management
Proficiency in pharmacology is critical, as the exam evaluates knowledge of medications such as Clozapine, including their side effects and toxicity levels. Students must be familiar with interventions to minimize side effects of antipsychotic medications and understand the therapeutic ranges of drugs like Lithium. Additionally, recognizing and managing conditions such as Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome is crucial for safe patient care.
Anxiety and Mood Disorders
The exam encompasses the management of anxiety and mood disorders, requiring students to identify manifestations of panic anxiety and develop appropriate care plans for Generalized Anxiety Disorder. Therapeutic communication strategies are assessed, ensuring that nursing interventions are effective and patient-centered. Understanding the nuances of Major Depressive Disorder and implementing suitable responses to client actions are also integral components of this section.
Eating Disorders
Knowledge of eating disorders, such as Bulimia Nervosa and Anorexia Nervosa, is evaluated through assessment findings and appropriate nursing interventions. Students must be able to interpret patient charts, recognize clinical manifestations, and implement strategies to support patients in their recovery journey.
Utilizing Study Resources
To prepare effectively for NUR 220 Exam 3, students are encouraged to utilize various study resources. Platforms like Quizlet offer flashcards and study guides that cover key topics, including WBC and RBC values, cranial nerve functions, and risk factors for conditions such as ABO/Rh incompatibility. Engaging with these resources can enhance retention and understanding of complex concepts.
Conclusion
Success in the NUR 220 Exam 3 requires a comprehensive understanding of advanced nursing concepts, critical thinking, and the application of knowledge to clinical scenarios. By focusing on the outlined topics and utilizing available study aids, students can approach the exam with confidence and demonstrate their readiness to provide high-quality patient care.
Below are sample Questions and Answers:
1. health literacy
Answer
the unique ability of a patient to understand and integrate health-related knowledge
the degree to which individuals have the capacity to obtain, process, and understand basic health
information needed to make appropriate health decisions
2. personal health literacy vs organizational health literacy
Answer
organizations equi- tably enable individuals to find, understand, use info
3. low literacy vs low health literacy
Answer
reading and writing PLUS numeracy (measuring and calculating)
4. patient education
Answer
prevents disease, promotes health, providing treatment instructions, clarifying information,
coping with limitations
5. formal patient education
Answer
planned, goal directed, large groups or 1 on 1
6. informal patient education
Answer
patient directed, situation and patient specific, prompted by a patient
7. primary school education
Answer
basic health and wellnessliteracy, handwashing, toothbrushing, nutrition