Critical Care Nursing Exam Questions

Correct Answer: E

Rationale: The correct answer is not provided, but based on the events described, the official time of death recorded in the medical record should be 1810 (Choice D). At this time, the cardiac monitor shows flatline, indicating the cessation of cardiac activity, which is the universally accepted point of declaring death. Choice A (1300) is incorrect because that is when diagnostic tests for brain death were completed, but the patient was not officially declared dead at that time. Choice B (1330) is incorrect as this is when the primary care provider reviewed the test results and documented brain death in the progress note, but the patient was not officially declared dead at this time either. Choice C (1400) is incorrect as there is no significant event occurring at this time that signifies the patient's death. Therefore, the most appropriate and official time of death recorded in the medical record would be 1810 when the cardiac monitor shows flatline.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Obtain a portable x-ray to confirm placement. This is the priority intervention because it ensures the arterial line is correctly positioned, reducing the risk of complications such as dislodgement or improper placement. Applying a pressure dressing (choice A) may be necessary but is not the priority. Ensuring tubing connections are tightened (choice B) is important for preventing leaks but does not address placement. Restraining the affected extremity (choice D) is unnecessary and can lead to complications. The x-ray confirms correct placement, ensuring accurate monitoring and treatment.

Correct Answer: E

Rationale: The correct answer is not provided, but based on the events described, the official time of death recorded in the medical record should be 1810 (Choice D). At this time, the cardiac monitor shows flatline, indicating the cessation of cardiac activity, which is the universally accepted point of declaring death. Choice A (1300) is incorrect because that is when diagnostic tests for brain death were completed, but the patient was not officially declared dead at that time. Choice B (1330) is incorrect as this is when the primary care provider reviewed the test results and documented brain death in the progress note, but the patient was not officially declared dead at this time either. Choice C (1400) is incorrect as there is no significant event occurring at this time that signifies the patient's death. Therefore, the most appropriate and official time of death recorded in the medical record would be 1810 when the cardiac monitor shows flatline.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C because the healthcare surrogate should base decisions on recommendations of the physician and healthcare team who have the expertise to provide medical advice. They are best positioned to understand the patient's condition and treatment options. Personal beliefs (A) may not align with medical best practices. Family and friends' recommendations (B) may not be informed by medical knowledge. Wishes previously expressed by the patient (D) are important but may need to be interpreted in the context of the current medical situation, which healthcare professionals can provide.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Oxygen that is chemically combined with hemoglobin. This is because oxygen primarily travels in the blood by binding to hemoglobin in red blood cells, forming oxyhemoglobin. This process allows for efficient transport of oxygen to tissues throughout the body. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because: A: Alveolar oxygen tension refers to the partial pressure of oxygen in the alveoli of the lungs, not the specific form of oxygen in the blood. C: Oxygen physically dissolved in plasma refers to the small amount of oxygen that is not bound to hemoglobin and is less significant in oxygen transport compared to oxygen bound to hemoglobin. D: Total oxygen consumption is the overall amount of oxygen utilized by the body, not specifically the form of oxygen bound to hemoglobin for transport.