Critical Care Nursing Practice Questions

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: Ask the healthcare provider about tapering the drug dose over the next week. This answer is correct because propranolol is a beta-blocker, and abrupt discontinuation can lead to rebound hypertension, angina, or even myocardial infarction due to the sudden withdrawal of the medication. Tapering the drug dose over time allows the body to adjust gradually and reduces the risk of these adverse effects. Choice A is incorrect because obtaining another antihypertensive prescription is not necessary if the client's blood pressure has been normal for the past three months. Choice B is incorrect because abruptly stopping the medication without tapering can lead to withdrawal symptoms. Choice C is incorrect because simply reporting uncomfortable symptoms without taking appropriate action (tapering the drug dose) is not addressing the potential risks associated with abrupt discontinuation of propranolol.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Zero reference the system daily. Zero referencing ensures accuracy and calibration of pressure monitoring system by setting the baseline pressure to zero. This is crucial to prevent inaccuracies in measurements. Choice A is important but doesn't directly address the accuracy of the monitoring system. Choice B may help in preventing errors but doesn't address the accuracy of pressure measurement. Choice D is important for alerting the nurse but doesn't directly relate to the accuracy of hemodynamic monitoring.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D because brushing off any visible powder on the skin and clothing is the first step in managing exposure to powdered lime. This action helps to remove the source of exposure and prevent further absorption through the skin. It is crucial to prevent additional contact and reduce the risk of further harm. Obtaining vital signs (choice A) and a complete blood count (choice B) can be important but should come after the initial decontamination. Decontaminating the patient by showering with water (choice C) is not recommended for lime exposure as it can react with water and cause further injury.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Rationale: The correct answer is A: A card from the girl's family. The nurse would value this form of recognition the most because it directly reflects the impact of her care on the patient and her family. It is a personal, heartfelt gesture that acknowledges the nurse's compassion and dedication. A card from the family shows genuine appreciation and gratitude for the nurse's efforts, making it the most meaningful form of recognition. Summary: - Choice B: A plaque from the ICU physicians could be seen as a formal recognition but lacks the personal touch and direct impact of the nurse's care on the patient and family. - Choice C: A letter of commendation from the hospital's administration is a professional acknowledgment but may not capture the emotional connection and impact that the nurse had on the family. - Choice D: A bouquet of flowers from her supervisor is a nice gesture but does not necessarily reflect the specific impact of the nurse's care on the patient and family.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A because it aligns with the ethical principle of patient autonomy, which emphasizes the patient's right to make decisions about their own care. Withholding or withdrawing life-sustaining treatments, including nutrition, antibiotics, and blood products, respects the patient's autonomy. This choice also reflects the principle of beneficence, as it aims to prevent unnecessary suffering and respects the patient's wishes. Option B is incorrect because it focuses on pain and anxiety management rather than the broader ethical considerations of withholding life-sustaining treatments. Option C is incorrect because withdrawing life-sustaining treatments while a patient is receiving paralytic agents can pose additional risks and complications, potentially conflicting with the principles of nonmaleficence and beneficence. Option D is incorrect because the primary goal of withdrawing or withholding treatments is not to hasten death but to respect the patient's autonomy and quality of life. This choice does not align with the ethical principles of patient-centered care.