Write Better Multiple-Choice Questions

Open Ended

What do you already KNOW about writing & using multiple-choice questions?

Open Ended

What do you WANT TO KNOW about writing & using multiple-choice questions?

Multiple Choice

Which of these is the best multiple-choice question stem?

• Which of these assessment findings, if identified in a patient who has pneumonia, indicates that the patient should be suctioned?

• A nurse is assessing a patient who has pneumonia. Which of these assessment findings indicates that the patient does NOT need to be suctioned?

• Tami is a new home health nurse. Tami has just assessed her first patient, Barb, who has been diagnosed with pneumonia. Which of Tami's assessment findings indicates that Barb may need to be suctioned?

Open Ended

STEM: Nia must wash her hands before coming back after a break. The hand washing sink has run out of hot water. What should she do?

The correct answer is "Use cold water to wash her hands."

By paraphrasing this answer incorrectly and/or by considering common errors in thinking,

CREATE TWO INCORRECT BUT PLAUSIBLE DISTRACTORS.

Multiple Choice

Select the best answer for this real-world scenario.

Tre is feeling lightheaded and shaky and wants to test his blood sugar to see whether he is experiencing hypoglycemia (low blood sugar). What should he do first?

• Gather the glucometer and supplies.

• Replace the lancet in the lancing device.

• Review previous blood sugar readings.

Open Ended

What are some important knowledge/skill questions this learning outcome suggests students should be able to answer?

LO: Use technology when appropriate & know the limitations of technology.

Open Ended

What have you LEARNED about writing & using multiple-choice questions?