Critical Care Nursing Exam Questions

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Helps to support the patient's immune system. Providing supportive care such as nutrition, oxygenation, pain management, and anxiety control can help reduce stress, which in turn supports the immune system. Stress weakens the immune system, making the patient more vulnerable to infections and complications. By addressing stress and anxiety through supportive care, the patient's immune system is better able to function optimally, aiding in the recovery process. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because: B: Part of good nursing care - While supportive care is indeed part of good nursing care, the key rationale for these interventions in a critically ill patient is to support the immune system, not just to provide good nursing care. C: Mandated by hospital policy - Hospital policies may dictate certain aspects of care, but the primary goal of these interventions is to support the patient's immune system, not just to comply with hospital policies. D: Reassures the patient and family - While providing reass

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: Respiratory alkalosis. Hyperventilation in severe asthma exacerbation leads to excessive removal of CO2, causing a decrease in carbonic acid levels, resulting in respiratory alkalosis. Metabolic acidosis (A) is not typically associated with hyperventilation. Metabolic alkalosis (B) is caused by excessive loss of acid or gain of bicarbonate, not by hyperventilation. Respiratory acidosis (C) is characterized by an increase in CO2 levels due to inadequate ventilation, which is the opposite of what occurs in severe asthma exacerbation.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B. Renal dysfunction is common in critically ill patients due to various factors like sepsis, hypotension, and nephrotoxic medications. This affects nearly two thirds of patients, making it a significant issue in critical care. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect. A is wrong because renal dysfunction is not rare in critically ill patients. C is incorrect as renal replacement therapy does not guarantee low mortality rates. D is inaccurate as renal dysfunction can have a significant impact on morbidity, mortality, and quality of life in critically ill patients.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A because communication with intubated patients is often challenging due to the presence of an artificial airway, which hinders speech. This understanding is crucial when determining appropriate nursing interventions to ensure effective patient care. Choice B is incorrect because different patients may require different modes of ventilation based on their specific condition, and controlled ventilation may not always be the preferred mode for all patients. Choice C is incorrect as patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease often have difficulty weaning from mechanical ventilation due to their underlying respiratory condition. Choice D is incorrect as wrist restraints are not applied to all patients on mechanical ventilation unless absolutely necessary for safety concerns, such as preventing self-extubation.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Provide rest periods to reduce fatigue. Prioritizing rest periods can help alleviate fatigue, a common symptom in patients with advanced cancer. Encouraging small, frequent meals (choice A) may not be effective if the patient has no appetite. Administering appetite stimulants (choice B) may not address the root cause of fatigue. Discussing parenteral nutrition (choice D) is not the priority as it does not directly address the fatigue and loss of appetite reported by the patient. Rest is essential for symptom management and overall well-being in palliative care.