Critical Care Nursing Practice Questions

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Autonomy. Autonomy is the ethical principle that respects an individual's right to make decisions about their own care and treatment. In this scenario, the partner wanting "everything done" regardless of the patient's wishes violates the patient's autonomy by not honoring their previously expressed wishes outlined in the living will. This decision disregards the patient's right to make choices about their own healthcare. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because: B: Beneficence focuses on doing good for the patient, but in this case, the partner's actions are not necessarily in the patient's best interest. C: Justice pertains to fairness and equal treatment, which is not directly relevant to the situation described. D: Nonmaleficence is the principle of doing no harm, but in this scenario, the harm is not necessarily physical but rather a violation of the patient's autonomy.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C because it involves patient-centered care and respects the family's preferences. By asking the family members whether they would prefer to remain in the patient's room or wait outside, the nurse acknowledges their needs and allows them to make an informed decision based on their comfort level. This empowers the family members and promotes a supportive environment during a stressful situation. Choice A is incorrect because it assumes that keeping the family in the room without their input is the best approach, which may not be the case for all families. Choice B is incorrect because asking the family to wait outside without considering their preferences may not be the most supportive action. Choice D is incorrect because it makes a blanket statement about patient comfort without considering individual family dynamics and preferences.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D (1 to 2 L/day) because the average adult typically produces 1 to 2 liters of urine per day. This range is considered normal for maintaining proper hydration and eliminating waste products. Choice A (80 to 125 mL/min) is incorrect as it represents the rate of urine production per minute, which is not commonly used to measure daily urine output. Choice B (180 L/day) is unrealistic and far exceeds the normal range for urine output. Choice C (80 mL/min) is too low for daily urine output and would not be sufficient for adequate waste elimination.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Step 1: Bringing in the patient's i-Pod with favorite music can provide personalized, soothing sounds, reducing stress and anxiety for the patient. Step 2: Familiar music can create a calming environment, distracting the patient from external noise. Step 3: Listening to music may improve patient comfort and overall experience in the critical care unit. Summary: Option A is correct as it directly addresses noise reduction by providing a personalized, calming environment for the patient. Options B, C, and D do not specifically target noise reduction but focus on other aspects of care or facility improvement.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C because notifying the organ procurement organization (OPO) once the patient has been pronounced brain dead is a requirement to sustain CMS Conditions of Participation. This step ensures that the proper protocols are followed for organ donation. Choice A is incorrect because notifying the OPO of impending death is not a requirement for sustaining CMS Conditions of Participation. Choice B is incorrect because obtaining informed consent for organ donation is not directly related to meeting the requirements of CMS Conditions of Participation. Choice D is incorrect because while evaluating the patient's suitability for organ donation is important, it is not a specific requirement under CMS Conditions of Participation.