Critical Care Nursing NCLEX Questions

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B (80 to 125 mL/min) because this range reflects the normal glomerular filtration rate (GFR) in adults. GFR measures the rate at which blood is filtered by the kidneys, typically around 125 mL/min. A GFR below 60 mL/min indicates kidney dysfunction, making option A incorrect. Option C (125 to 180 mL/min) is above the normal range. Option D (more than 189 mL/min) is too high and could indicate hyperfiltration, common in conditions like diabetes. Therefore, choice B is the most appropriate within the normal GFR range.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: Increased confidence in making decisions. Obtaining certification in critical care nursing would likely enhance the nurse's knowledge and skills, leading to increased confidence in making clinical decisions. This confidence would stem from the rigorous training and education required to achieve certification, as well as the validation of her expertise in critical care nursing. With increased confidence, the nurse would be more self-assured in her abilities, leading to improved patient care outcomes. Choice A: Recognition by peers is not the most important effect because while recognition is a positive outcome, it may not directly impact the nurse's ability to provide better patient care. Choice B: Increase in salary and rank is not the most important effect because while financial benefits are important, the primary focus of obtaining certification should be on improving competence and patient care. Choice C: More flexibility in seeking employment is not the most important effect because while certification may open up more job opportunities, the main benefit should be on enhancing the nurse's skills and confidence in providing quality

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: �This injection is being given to prevent blood clots from forming.� Enoxaparin is an anticoagulant used to prevent blood clots. It is administered through injection, not orally (A). Enoxaparin does not dissolve existing blood clots (C). Contacting the primary care provider to discuss the medication is not necessary in this scenario (D). The correct choice emphasizes the purpose of enoxaparin in preventing new blood clots.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: Instill 5 mL of sterile saline into the ET before suctioning. This intervention helps to loosen and mobilize the thick secretions, making them easier to remove during suctioning. It is important to moisten the secretions to prevent mucosal damage and trauma during suctioning. A: Increasing suctioning frequency can lead to mucosal damage and increased risk of infection. B: Repositioning helps with ventilation and preventing pressure injuries, but it does not directly address the thick secretions. C: Adding water to enteral feedings will not directly address the thick secretions in the ET. In summary, instilling sterile saline into the ET before suctioning is the most effective intervention as it helps to loosen and mobilize thick secretions, making suctioning more effective and reducing the risk of mucosal damage.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Liver. The nurse should monitor liver function in this client because acetaminophen is primarily metabolized in the liver. Alcohol abuse can also contribute to liver damage, increasing the risk of liver toxicity from acetaminophen. Monitoring liver function tests like AST, ALT, and bilirubin levels can help detect any liver damage early. Choice A, cardiorespiratory, is not directly related to acetaminophen or alcohol abuse in this scenario. Choice C, sensory, is not relevant to monitoring organ function in this context. Choice D, kidney, is not the primary concern because acetaminophen is mainly metabolized in the liver, and kidney function is not typically affected by acetaminophen use.