Critical Care Nursing NCLEX Questions

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A because it addresses the husband's concern directly by assuring him that every measure will be taken to provide the best care for his wife. This response shows empathy and provides reassurance, which is crucial in such a stressful situation. It helps to alleviate the husband's anxiety and fear by emphasizing the hospital's commitment to his wife's well-being. Explanation for why the other choices are incorrect: B: This response does not address the husband's immediate concern about his wife's well-being and may come across as dismissive. C: Offering a place to relax does not address the husband's specific question and does not provide the information he is seeking. D: Discussing health insurance is not appropriate at this moment of crisis and does not address the husband's fears about his wife's condition.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Systemic vascular resistance (SVR). SVR reflects the resistance the heart must overcome to pump blood into the systemic circulation. By monitoring SVR, the nurse can assess the effectiveness of medications aimed at reducing left ventricular afterload, as these medications work by dilating blood vessels and reducing resistance. An effective reduction in afterload would lead to a decrease in SVR. A: Mean arterial pressure (MAP) is an indicator of perfusion pressure but may not directly reflect changes in afterload. C: Pulmonary vascular resistance (PVR) is specific to the pulmonary circulation and not directly related to left ventricular afterload. D: Pulmonary artery wedge pressure (PAWP) is a measure of left ventricular preload and filling pressures, not afterload.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C (80 mL/hour) because the minimum acceptable urine output for a patient is approximately 0.5-1 mL/kg/hour. For a 75 kg patient, this equates to 37.5-75 mL/hour. Therefore, an output of 80 mL/hour is within this range and is considered minimally acceptable. A: Less than 30 mL/hour is incorrect because it is below the recommended range for a 75 kg patient. B: 37 mL/hour is close to the lower end of the acceptable range, but it is not the minimum acceptable output. D: 150 mL/hour is above the recommended range and would be considered excessive for a 75 kg patient.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Assess neurological status every 30 minutes. This intervention is crucial for patients receiving neuromuscular blocking agents to monitor for any adverse effects such as respiratory depression or paralysis. Regular assessments help ensure early detection of complications and prompt intervention. A: Administering sedatives in conjunction with neuromuscular blocking agents can potentiate respiratory depression and lead to respiratory compromise. C: Avoiding interaction with the patient is not appropriate as communication and patient interaction are important aspects of nursing care. D: Restraint should be avoided as it can increase the risk of complications such as pressure ulcers, anxiety, and decreased respiratory function. Overall, regular neurological assessments are essential for ensuring patient safety and prompt intervention in case of any complications.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Step 1: Start with Background - statement B provides relevant background information about the patient's current condition and why there is a need for communication. Step 2: Move on to Situation - statement D sets the current situation where the nurse expresses concern about the patient's symptom. Step 3: Next is Assessment - statement C details the nurse's assessment findings, highlighting the critical aspects of the patient's condition. Step 4: End with Recommendation - statement A suggests the necessary action to be taken based on the assessment findings. This order ensures a clear and structured communication process. Summary: - Choice A is incorrect as the recommendation should come after providing background, situation, and assessment. - Choice C is incorrect as assessment details should precede the patient's critical condition. - Choice D is incorrect as the situation should be explained before expressing concern.