Introduction to microbiology (NCLEX questions)

Which statement best describes most microorganisms?
A. All cause disease
B. Most are harmless or beneficial
C. All require oxygen
D. All are visible to the naked eye

B

Which term describes microorganisms normally present on the body?
A. Pathogenic
B. Transient
C. Endemic
D. Virulent

C

What is the nurse’s primary role related to microbiology?
A. Prescribing antimicrobials
B. Preventing transmission of infection
C. Identifying microorganisms under a microscope
D. Developing antibiotics

B

What is the most common route of transmission for healthcare-associated infections (HAIs)?
A. Airborne droplets
B. Contaminated food
C. Improper needle disposal
D. Contaminated hands of healthcare workers

D

Which microorganism requires oxygen to survive?
A. Obligate anaerobe
B. Facultative anaerobe
C. Obligate aerobe
D. Spore-forming bacteria

C

Why are bacterial spores clinically significant?
A. They reproduce rapidly
B. They are easily destroyed by heat
C. They survive harsh conditions
D. They require oxygen

C

What is the primary purpose of a culture and sensitivity (C&S) test?
A. Identify viral infections
B. Determine immune status
C. Identify the organism and effective antibiotic
D. Measure white blood cell count

C

Which information is included in a C&S report?
A. Client allergies only
B. Organism type and antibiotic sensitivity
C. Vital signs
D. Route of transmission

B

Which organism is classified as a prokaryote?
A. Fungus
B. Protozoa
C. Virus
D. Bacteria

D

Which infection is caused by fungi?
A. Malaria
B. Thrush
C. Tuberculosis
D. Influenza

B

How do viruses reproduce?
A. Binary fission
B. Budding
C. Using a host cell
D. Spore formation

C

Which disease is viral in origin?
A. Histoplasmosis
B. Malaria
C. Common cold
D. Thrush

C

What contributes most to antimicrobial resistance?
A. Completing antibiotic therapy
B. Proper hand hygiene
C. Overuse and misuse of antibiotics
D. Vaccination programs

C

MRSA is best described as:
A. A viral infection
B. A fungal infection
C. A drug-resistant bacterium
D. A protozoal parasite

C

Which action best breaks the chain of infection?
A. Administering antibiotics early
B. Wearing sterile gloves at all times
C. Performing proper hand hygiene
D. Isolating all clients

C

Which is a susceptible host?
A. A healthy adult
B. A vaccinated child
C. An immunocompromised client
D. A healthcare worker wearing PPE

C

Endotoxins are released when:
A. Bacteria actively secrete toxins
B. Gram-negative bacteria die
C. Viruses replicate
D. Spores form

B

Which stage of infection includes mild, nonspecific symptoms?
A. Incubation
B. Prodromal
C. Illness
D. Convalescence

B