Select-all-that-apply questions test whether you can evaluate several choices independently. The safest method is to prove each option, not count how many answers feel right.
What is this question type?
A SATA or multiple-response question asks you to select every option that correctly answers the task. Some choices may be true in general but wrong for the specific client scenario.
The SATA method
- Turn each option into true or false. Judge one option at a time.
- Use the stem as the rule. The option must answer this question, not a different one.
- Demand evidence. If the scenario does not support the option, do not select it.
- Watch for qualifiers. Words like first, priority, immediate, expected, and contraindicated change the answer.
- Stop counting. There is no reliable number of correct options.
Original sample SATA question
This original public sample is simplified for learning. It is not copied from NCLEX, NCSBN, or any protected NexusRN question bank.
Client scenario
A client with pneumonia has oxygen saturation of 88% on room air, respiratory rate of 30/min, new confusion, productive cough, and decreased oral intake.
Task
Which findings require follow-up? Select all that apply.
- Oxygen saturation of 88% on room air
- Respiratory rate of 30/min
- New confusion
Why these answers make sense
Low oxygen saturation, tachypnea, and new confusion suggest impaired oxygenation or deterioration. Productive cough may be expected with pneumonia, and decreased oral intake needs assessment, but oxygenation-related changes are more urgent.
How this connects to clinical judgment
Recognize cues
Identify which options are supported by abnormal or changing client data.
Analyze cues
Separate expected findings from concerning findings.
Prioritize hypotheses
Select options that match the most important client risk.
Take action
Avoid selecting actions or findings that are not supported by the scenario.
Common mistakes
- Over-selecting: choosing everything that sounds medically related.
- Under-selecting: stopping after one good answer even when others are supported.
- Counting answers: trying to guess whether there should be two, three, or four choices.
- Ignoring the task: selecting symptoms when the question asks for actions.
- Choosing true-but-irrelevant options: selecting a statement that is generally true but not supported here.
Practice drill
Before you answer, ask:
- What is the question asking me to select?
- Is this option supported by the client data?
- Is the option true for this client or only true in general?
- Does the option match the priority or timing in the stem?
- Would I defend this option out loud?
Where this fits in your NGN study path
Official sources and independence
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