The nurse reviews clients at a community health clinic. Which client meets the current USPSTF eligibility criteria for annual lung cancer screening with low-dose computed tomography?
1A 62-year-old current smoker with a 25 pack-year smoking history✓ Correct answer
2A 48-year-old current smoker with a 30 pack-year smoking history
3A 73-year-old former smoker who quit 20 years ago after 35 pack-years
4An 82-year-old current smoker with a 50 pack-year smoking history
Explanation
Annual low-dose computed tomography is recommended for adults age 50 to 80 with at least a 20 pack-year history who currently smoke or quit within 15 years. The 62-year-old current smoker meets every criterion.
Quick answer Refer the 62-year-old current smoker with a 25 pack-year history for annual low-dose computed tomography screening.
Why this is correct This client is within the recommended age range, meets the smoking-exposure threshold, and currently smokes. Screening eligibility depends on all of these elements rather than smoking history alone.
Easy analogy or mental picture Think of screening eligibility as a lock requiring age, exposure, and smoking-timing keys together. This helps organize the criteria, but it does not replace shared decision-making or evaluation of symptoms that may require diagnostic testing.
Memory hook Remember 50 to 80, 20 pack-years, and current smoking or quitting within 15 years.
NCLEX decision rule For preventive screening questions, verify every eligibility criterion before choosing the client. Do not substitute a chest radiograph for low-dose computed tomography or apply screening criteria to a client who already has concerning symptoms.
Why the other choices are wrong The younger current smoker is below the age range. The former smoker quit beyond the allowed interval, and the older current smoker is above the age range despite substantial exposure.
References
[1]
NCSBN: 2026 NCLEX-RN Test PlanNational Council of State Boards of Nursing
[2]
USPSTF: Lung Cancer Screening RecommendationU.S. Preventive Services Task Force