Critical Care Nursing Practice Questions

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Evidence-based practice. The AACN Standards for Acute and Critical Care Nursing Practice emphasize the use of evidence-based practice to guide critical care nursing. This framework ensures that nursing interventions are based on the best available evidence, leading to improved patient outcomes. Healthy work environment (B) and National Patient Safety Goals (C) are important but not specific frameworks for critical care nursing. The nursing process (D) is a systematic approach to delivering patient care but is not the primary guiding framework in critical care nursing practice.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Step-by-step rationale: 1. Bladder catheterization helps relieve urinary obstruction, a common postrenal cause of acute kidney injury. 2. By draining urine from the bladder, it prevents further damage to the kidneys. 3. This intervention addresses the underlying cause of the kidney injury, leading to improvement. Summary: - Choice A is correct as it directly addresses the postrenal cause by relieving urinary obstruction. - Choices B, C, and D are incorrect as they do not target the specific postrenal cause of acute kidney injury.

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: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: The certified nurse will have more knowledge and expertise. Certification in critical care nursing indicates that the candidate has undergone specialized training and passed a standardized exam, demonstrating a higher level of knowledge and skill in critical care practices compared to a non-certified candidate. This certification ensures that the nurse has met specific competency standards in critical care, making them better equipped to handle complex situations in the ICU. Summary: - Choice B (ethical behavior) and Choice C (caring towards patients) are subjective qualities that can be present in both certified and non-certified nurses. - Choice D (collaboration with other nurses) is not directly related to certification but can be influenced by the individual's interpersonal skills. - Ultimately, the certification in critical care nursing provides concrete evidence of the candidate's advanced knowledge and expertise, making them the most compelling choice for the hospital to hire.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B because implementing a medication safety program designed by pharmacists promotes a safe work environment for critical care nurses by reducing medication errors. Pharmacists are experts in medications and can provide valuable insights to improve safety. A: Celebrating with a pizza party may boost morale but does not directly address work environment factors. C: Modifying staffing ratios may improve patient care but doesn't necessarily address the overall work environment. D: Joint workshops foster collaboration but may not directly impact the work environment's safety and health.