Preparing for NUR 155 Exam 2 at Galen College of Nursing requires a focused approach and a solid understanding of nursing fundamentals. This exam typically covers a wide range of topics related to adult health, nursing care planning, critical thinking, pharmacology, and patient safety. Nursing students often find this exam challenging because it demands not only memorization of facts but also the ability to apply clinical judgment in real-world scenarios. As such, creating a comprehensive study guide and understanding the key concepts tested in NUR 155 Exam 2 can significantly improve performance and reduce test anxiety.
Understanding the Scope of NUR 155 Exam 2
NUR 155 focuses on medical-surgical nursing and prepares students to handle various conditions encountered in adult patients. The second exam in this course usually tests knowledge gained from the midsection of the syllabus and includes conditions like cardiovascular diseases, respiratory disorders, fluid and electrolyte imbalances, and the use of pharmacologic interventions.
Key Areas Typically Covered
- Cardiovascular system and related diseases
- Respiratory system disorders
- Pain assessment and management
- Pharmacology especially cardiac and respiratory medications
- Nursing interventions for acute and chronic conditions
- Prioritization and delegation
Cardiovascular System Review
Many questions on NUR 155 Exam 2 focus on the cardiovascular system, especially conditions like hypertension, heart failure, myocardial infarction, and arrhythmias. It is important to understand not just the definitions but also the signs and symptoms, diagnostic methods, nursing interventions, and expected pharmacological treatments for each condition.
Important Concepts to Master
- Pathophysiology of heart failure and hypertension
- Interventions for chest pain (MONA: Morphine, Oxygen, Nitroglycerin, Aspirin)
- Use of beta-blockers, ACE inhibitors, and diuretics
- Monitoring for adverse effects like hypotension or electrolyte imbalances
- Patient education for lifestyle changes and medication adherence
Respiratory Disorders and Nursing Interventions
The respiratory system section in Exam 2 is equally important. Students must demonstrate their understanding of conditions such as asthma, COPD, pneumonia, and pulmonary embolism. Nursing priorities such as airway maintenance, oxygen therapy, and monitoring breathing patterns are emphasized.
Skills and Knowledge Required
- Assessment of breath sounds and respiratory rate
- Proper positioning for optimal breathing (e.g., semi-Fowler’s)
- Safe administration of bronchodilators and corticosteroids
- Use of incentive spirometry and chest physiotherapy
- Teaching patients how to use inhalers correctly
Fluid and Electrolyte Balance
Questions about fluid and electrolyte balance test the student’s understanding of homeostasis and the nurse’s role in identifying and managing imbalances. Recognizing the signs of dehydration, fluid overload, and electrolyte disturbances is vital in adult nursing care.
Common Electrolyte Imbalances
- Hyponatremia and hypernatremia
- Hypokalemia and hyperkalemia
- Calcium and magnesium imbalances
Students must be familiar with laboratory values, interpret trends, and plan appropriate interventions like IV fluid replacement or electrolyte administration.
Pharmacology Review
Medication safety is a critical aspect of NUR 155. The exam includes multiple questions testing knowledge of drug indications, side effects, contraindications, and the nursing process related to medication administration. The cardiovascular and respiratory medications are a major focus here.
Common Drugs Covered
- Furosemide monitor for hypokalemia
- Lisinopril watch for cough and hyperkalemia
- Metoprolol check heart rate and blood pressure before administration
- Albuterol assess for tachycardia and nervousness
- Warfarin monitor INR levels and signs of bleeding
Understanding the nursing implications of each drug is essential for safe practice and successful exam performance.
Critical Thinking and Prioritization
NUR 155 Exam 2 also tests clinical decision-making skills through prioritization questions. These types of questions often follow the ABCs of nursing (Airway, Breathing, Circulation), or frameworks like Maslow’s hierarchy of needs. Being able to quickly identify which patient is most at risk or which action should be taken first is key to scoring well.
Strategies for Prioritization
- Always address life-threatening problems first
- Look for signs of deterioration (e.g., changes in vital signs)
- Use the nursing process: Assess before you act
- Distinguish between urgent and non-urgent issues
Practice questions that mirror NCLEX-style items can help reinforce these prioritization skills effectively.
Pain Assessment and Management
Pain is a common symptom in adult medical-surgical patients. Students must know how to assess pain using standardized tools and provide both pharmacological and non-pharmacological relief. Understanding the difference between acute and chronic pain can influence the choice of intervention.
Pain Management Techniques
- Use of numeric or visual analog pain scales
- Administering analgesics like opioids and NSAIDs
- Monitoring for side effects like respiratory depression
- Implementing comfort measures such as repositioning
- Teaching patients about pain reporting and medication schedules
Test-Taking Tips for NUR 155 Exam 2
Success in the NUR 155 Exam 2 doesn’t only come from studying hard but also from practicing effective test-taking strategies. Since the exam format often includes application-based questions, it’s essential to practice with sample tests, NCLEX-style questions, and case studies.
Helpful Exam Strategies
- Read each question carefully look for key words like first, best, or most important.
- Eliminate clearly incorrect answers before choosing.
- Use clinical judgment, not personal experience.
- Don’t change answers unless you’re certain there’s a mistake.
- Manage your time and avoid spending too long on a single question.
NUR 155 Exam 2 at Galen College of Nursing is a comprehensive evaluation of a nursing student’s knowledge and clinical judgment in medical-surgical care. To perform well, students must master core topics such as cardiovascular and respiratory care, medication safety, fluid and electrolyte management, and prioritization skills. Developing a personalized study plan, reviewing lecture notes and textbook content, and practicing NCLEX-style questions can significantly enhance preparation. Understanding the real-world implications of each concept and applying critical thinking is essential to becoming a competent and confident nurse. With the right approach and commitment, success on NUR 155 Exam 2 is absolutely achievable.