Critical Care Nursing Practice Questions

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: A woman who originally escorted the patient in. This choice is correct because she is most likely the person responsible for the patient's care and thus likely has legal authority to make medical decisions on behalf of the patient. The other choices are incorrect because simply being recognized as the patient's brother (A), being a teenage boy who approaches the nurse (B), or being a woman whom the others look at and call over (D) does not necessarily indicate that they have the legal authority to make medical decisions for the unconscious patient.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Taking all asthma medications as prescribed. This is the most appropriate action to prevent exacerbation of asthma symptoms. By taking medications as prescribed, the patient can effectively manage and control their asthma, reducing the risk of exacerbation. Following the prescribed medication regimen helps to keep inflammation in check and maintain airway function. Choice A is incorrect because while follow-up appointments are important, they do not directly prevent exacerbation. Choice B is incorrect as limiting activity may not address the underlying cause of exacerbation. Choice D is incorrect as taking medications on an "as needed" basis may not provide consistent control of asthma symptoms, leading to potential exacerbation.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: Increased confidence in critical thinking. Achieving certification in critical care nursing validates the nurse's expertise and knowledge in this specialized area, leading to increased confidence in their ability to critically think through complex patient situations. This confidence translates into improved clinical decision-making and patient outcomes. A: Recognition by peers - While recognition by peers is important for professional growth, the primary benefit of certification is enhancing clinical skills. B: Increase in salary and rank - While certification may lead to salary increases in some cases, the most significant impact is on improving clinical skills. C: More flexibility in seeking employment - While certification may enhance employability, the focus is on improving critical thinking skills rather than employment opportunities.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D because the patient is exhibiting Cheyne-Stokes breathing pattern characterized by periods of apnea followed by deep and rapid breathing. The nurse should document this pattern accurately. Option A is incorrect as suctioning is not indicated. Option B may worsen the respiratory pattern. Option C is not specifically related to addressing the breathing pattern.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D (1 to 2 L/day) because the average adult typically produces 1 to 2 liters of urine per day. This range is considered normal for maintaining proper hydration and eliminating waste products. Choice A (80 to 125 mL/min) is incorrect as it represents the rate of urine production per minute, which is not commonly used to measure daily urine output. Choice B (180 L/day) is unrealistic and far exceeds the normal range for urine output. Choice C (80 mL/min) is too low for daily urine output and would not be sufficient for adequate waste elimination.