Critical Care Nursing NCLEX Questions

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: To identify and treat the underlying cause. The first priority of the nurse when critically ill patients exhibit signs of anxiety is to determine the root cause of the anxiety. By identifying and addressing the underlying cause, the nurse can effectively manage the patient's anxiety and prevent further complications. Administering medications without understanding the cause can mask the symptoms and lead to ineffective treatment. Reassessing the patient hourly may not address the root cause and could delay appropriate intervention. Pain medication may not be necessary if the anxiety is not related to pain. Treating the underlying cause ensures holistic and effective care for the patient.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Responding to diversity. By considering the patient's gender, ethnicity, spirituality, and lifestyle, the nurse is focusing on responding to diversity in patient care. This approach acknowledges and respects the unique characteristics and backgrounds of individual patients, leading to more culturally competent and effective care. Choice A: Becoming a moral advocate does not directly relate to considering diversity in patient care. It involves standing up for ethical principles and values in healthcare. Choice B: Facilitating all forms of learning is not specific to addressing diversity in patient care. It pertains to promoting education and understanding in various learning styles. Choice D: Using effective clinical judgment is important in nursing practice but does not specifically address the focus on diversity in patient care. It pertains to making sound decisions based on clinical knowledge and expertise.

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: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B because a mechanically ventilated patient with cardiogenic shock being treated with an intra-aortic balloon pump would benefit most from having a Vigileo pulse contour cardiac output monitoring system. This device provides continuous cardiac output monitoring and can help guide hemodynamic management in critically ill patients, especially those with hemodynamic instability like cardiogenic shock. It allows for real-time adjustments of fluid and vasoactive medications to optimize cardiac output and tissue perfusion. Choice A is incorrect because a patient with a history of aortic insufficiency and postoperative myocardial infarction may not require continuous cardiac output monitoring like the patient in choice B. Choice C is incorrect as the patient with atrial fibrillation and paroxysmal supraventricular tachycardia does not necessarily need cardiac output monitoring. Choice D is also incorrect as a mechanically ventilated patient following repair of an acute bowel obstruction may not require continuous cardiac output monitoring unless there are specific complications.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The Venturi mask is the best choice for delivering 65% oxygen because it allows precise oxygen concentration delivery through adjustable venturi valves. This device ensures consistent oxygen levels even during variations in patient breathing patterns. Face mask with non-rebreathing reservoir (A) delivers higher oxygen concentrations, low-flow nasal cannula (B) is not suitable for precise oxygen delivery, and simple face mask (C) may not provide the desired oxygen concentration.