🧠 NCLEX Priority & Delegation Questions: How to Think Like a Nurse
One of the most challenging NCLEX question types? Priority setting and delegation.
It’s not just about memorizing content—it’s about applying clinical judgment and nursing logic in real-world situations. These questions make up a significant portion of the exam, especially with the new Next Gen NCLEX format.
In this guide, we’ll cover:
The rules for answering priority & delegation questions
A KOTC visual that breaks it down clearly
Real NCLEX-style practice examples
How to avoid common traps that cost points
📚 The Golden Rules of NCLEX Delegation
| Staff Role | Can Do | Cannot Do |
|---|---|---|
| RN | Assess, educate, IV meds, blood, unstable patients | No IV meds by others, no initial assessments |
| LPN/VN | Stable patients, PO meds, wound care, reinforce teaching | No med admin (IV), no assessments, no unstable teaching |
| UAP | ADLs, vitals, ambulation, hygiene, feeding | No med admin, no assessments, no care planning |
🔺 Maslow’s Hierarchy for Priority Setting
- Airway
- Breathing
- Circulation
- Disability (neuro, mental status)
- Pain
- Education / Psych / Rest
Tip: Choose physiological over psychosocial unless the client is unstable.
📝 NCLEX-Style Sample Questions
Question 1:
Which client should the nurse assess first?
A. Stable client post-op day 2
B. Client with audible wheezing and O₂ sat 89% ✅
C. Client requesting pain meds
D. Client with UTI requesting discharge instructions
Question 2:
Which task can the nurse delegate to the UAP?
A. Administering PO acetaminophen
B. Checking vital signs before a blood transfusion
C. Feeding a client with stable dementia ✅
D. Reinforcing education about insulin injections
🧬 Before You Go…
King of the Curve is built for real-world prep:
1000+ visual study aids
Daily QOTDs
Smart, adaptive Qbanks
Rewards system with Curve Coins
Gamified group modes
We help you think like a nurse—before you ever step into practice.
🚀 Call to Action
✅ Get free trial access to our NCLEX Qbank → kingofthecurve.org/trial-sessions
✅ Grab your free lifetime study content → kingofthecurve.org/free-lifetime
✅ Practice questions daily → kingofthecurve.org/qotd
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
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Aim for 4-6 focused hours, ensuring you incorporate breaks to avoid burnout.
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Practice mindfulness techniques, take practice exams under realistic conditions, and maintain a balanced lifestyle.
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Set short-term goals, seek support from mentors, and reward yourself for small achievements.
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Regular exercise improves focus, reduces stress, and enhances overall mental clarity.
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KOTC offers personalized learning tools, gamification features, and adaptive question banks to help students stay on track without burnout.
