Select

All That Apply Question Study Tips

Regina Callion MSN, RN

The purpose of select all that apply (SATA) questions are to challenge the candidate. On NCLEX,
SATA questions are more difficult because the candidate needs to simultaneously consider
more information.

NCLEX Tips


ü SATA questions can also be called “multiple response items.”
ü For the current NCLEX test plan 1 or more options may be correct.
ü You will need to choose ALL of the correct answers to clear the question.
ü When looking at the answer choices consider each answer individually and do not try to
compare answers against each other.
ü Turn each answer choice into a true or false statement.


Studying the CONTENT is the best way to choose the right answer!

• When looking at the answer choices consider each answer individually and do not try to
compare answers against each other.
• Because SATA questions contain many answers, they force students to be familiar with a
much broader range of material than regular question items.
• Multiple response items also expect students to have a greater familiarity with details
such as client diseases, teaching points, or side effects than other NCLEX items do.
Students cannot easily "bluff" on a multiple response exam. Strategies also fail to work
with them.


Practice Question Example

1. A nurse is teaching a continuing education class on the medication prednisone. Which of
the following are expected complications with long term use of this medication? Select
all that apply.

1. Glaucoma
2. Diabetes
3. Obesity
4. Black tarry stools
5. Red colored urine
6. Impaired immune response


Correct answer: 1, 2, 3 & 6. Prednisone is a steroid that can be used to treat many disorders.
However, there are multiple complications with long term use such as diabetes, osteoporosis,
hypertension, lowered immune response, and glaucoma. Black tarry stools are common with
intestinal bleeding. Red/Orange colored urine is common with the use of phenazopyridine.

2. A new nurse is orienting to the medical surgical unit. She is aware nurses are responsible
for which of the following? Select all that apply.

1. Maintaining a correct inventory of narcotics.
2. Administering narcotics when the prescribed analgesic is not effective.
3. Storing controlled substances in locked containers.
4. Documenting prescribed controlled substances on medication administration records.
5. Signing off on the administration of controlled substances by unlicensed personnel.

Correct answer: 1, 3, 4-Nurses are responsible for maintaining a correct inventory of narcotics.
Storing controlled substances in locked containers. Documenting prescribed controlled
substances on medication administration records. Nurses are also responsible for administering
a controlled substance only to the client for whom it has been prescribed.




If you are interested in more of our SATA practice questions purchase our NCLEX Ready
“Question Bank Book” please visit the website:
ReMarNurse.com