Critical Care Nursing Cardiac Questions

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Teach the patient the reason for the use of prophylactic antibiotics. This is the most important action because human bites can introduce harmful bacteria into the wound, leading to infection. Prophylactic antibiotics help prevent infection in deep human bite wounds. Choice A is incorrect because rabies immune globulin is not indicated for human bite wounds. Choice B is incorrect because suturing human bite wounds can trap bacteria and increase the risk of infection. Choice D is incorrect because keeping the wounds dry is not sufficient; proper wound cleaning and antibiotic treatment are essential in this case.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Brain death has occurred if there is no breathing and certain reflexes are absent. Brain death is defined as the irreversible cessation of all functions of the entire brain, including the brainstem. The absence of breathing and certain reflexes, such as no response to painful stimuli or no pupillary response to light, are key indicators of brain death. This definition is crucial for determining eligibility for organ donation. Incorrect choices: A: Brain death occurs if a person is flaccid and unresponsive. Flaccidity and unresponsiveness are not specific criteria for diagnosing brain death. B: If CPR is ineffective in restoring a heartbeat, the brain cannot function. The absence of a heartbeat alone does not indicate brain death. D: If respiratory efforts cease and no apical pulse is audible, brain death is present. Respiratory cessation and the absence of pulse are not definitive signs of brain death.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: To strengthen the relationship between the family and health care provider. Rationale: 1. Open visiting hours encourage family involvement in care, fostering a partnership between healthcare providers and families. 2. Family support can positively impact patient outcomes and satisfaction. 3. It allows families to be updated on the patient's condition and involved in decision-making. 4. Strengthening the relationship can lead to better communication and trust between all parties. Summary of Incorrect Choices: A: Open visiting hours may disrupt rest and quiet, but the primary purpose is not to provide rest. C: Open visiting hours do not aim to control the number of visitors but rather encourage family involvement. D: While open visiting hours may not provide an entirely undisturbed environment, the focus is on improving family-provider relationships.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B because after 5 days, the risk of infection increases. Evaluating the patient for signs and symptoms of infection is crucial for early detection and treatment. Choice A is incorrect because routine dialysis catheter changes are not necessary after only 5 days. Choice C is incorrect as percutaneous catheters are for short-term use. Choice D is incorrect as using the catheter for fluid administration may increase the risk of infection.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: The beeping of the heart monitor is a likely stressor for the patient recovering from open-heart surgery in the ICU. The constant beeping can cause anxiety and uncertainty about their health status. The daughter's conversation and effleurage are likely comforting and supportive for the patient, reducing stress. The dim lighting may create a calming environment, and the distant cries of a patient in pain may evoke empathy but may not directly stress the recovering patient. Therefore, the beeping of the heart monitor stands out as a stressor among the choices provided.