Critical Care Nursing NCLEX Questions

Questions 81

ATI RN

ATI RN Test Bank

Critical Care Nursing NCLEX Questions Questions

Question 1 of 5

The charge nurse has a Vigileo pulse contour cardiac output monitoring system available for use in the surgical intensive care unit. For which patient isa buisrbe.c oomf /ttehsits device most appropriate?

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.

Question 2 of 5

A patient who is unconscious after a fall from a ladder is transported to the emergency department by emergency medical personnel. During the primary survey of the patient, the nurse should:

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Obtain a Glasgow Coma Scale score. During the primary survey, assessing the patient's level of consciousness is crucial as it helps determine the severity of the injury and guides further management. The Glasgow Coma Scale is a standardized tool used to assess the level of consciousness based on eye opening, verbal response, and motor response. It provides valuable information about the patient's neurological status. A: Obtaining a complete set of vital signs is important but assessing the level of consciousness takes priority in this scenario. C: Asking about chronic medical conditions is important but not as critical as assessing the patient's level of consciousness during the primary survey. D: Attaching a cardiac electrocardiogram monitor is not necessary during the primary survey unless there are specific indications of cardiac issues, which are not evident in this case. In summary, obtaining a Glasgow Coma Scale score is essential for assessing the patient's level of consciousness and determining the severity of the injury during the primary survey.

Question 3 of 5

Following an earthquake, patients are triaged by emergency medical personnel and are transported to the emergency department (ED). Which patient will the nurse need to assess first?

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: A patient with a red tag. In triage, red tags indicate patients with life-threatening injuries who require immediate attention. The nurse must assess this patient first to provide necessary interventions. Patients with blue tags are considered urgent but stable, black tags are deceased or beyond help, and yellow tags are for delayed treatment. Assessing the red-tagged patient first ensures prompt care for those in critical condition.

Question 4 of 5

The American Association of Critical-Care Nurses (AACN) sponsors certification in critical care nursing for several critical care subspecialties. What is the most important benefit of such certification for the profession of nursing?

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B because certification validates nurses' expert knowledge and practice. This is important as it ensures that nurses have the necessary skills and competence to provide high-quality care in critical care settings. Certification is voluntary and not mandated by government regulations (Choice C). It goes beyond demonstrating basic knowledge (Choice D) by confirming specialized expertise. While certification may garner positive publicity (Choice A), the primary benefit is the validation of advanced skills and knowledge.

Question 5 of 5

Warning signs that can assist the critical care nurse in reco gnizing that an ethical dilemma may exist include which of the following? (Select all that apply.)

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A because when family members are confused about the patient's condition or treatment, it can indicate a lack of communication or understanding, leading to a potential ethical dilemma. This confusion may result in conflicting views on what is best for the patient, potentially leading to disagreements and ethical conflicts. Choice B is incorrect because although family conflict can lead to ethical dilemmas, it is not a direct warning sign that an ethical dilemma exists. Choice C is incorrect because the family asking not to inform the patient about treatment is more related to communication preferences rather than a clear indication of an ethical dilemma. Choice D is incorrect because a deteriorating patient condition, while concerning, does not directly signal an ethical dilemma unless there are specific ethical considerations involved in the treatment decisions.

Similar Questions

Join Our Community Today!

Join Over 10,000+ nursing students using Nurselytic. Access Comprehensive study Guides curriculum for ATI-RN and 3000+ practice questions to help you pass your ATI-RN exam.

Call to Action Image