Critical Care Nursing Exam Questions

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A because communication with intubated patients is often challenging due to the presence of an artificial airway, which hinders speech. This understanding is crucial when determining appropriate nursing interventions to ensure effective patient care. Choice B is incorrect because different patients may require different modes of ventilation based on their specific condition, and controlled ventilation may not always be the preferred mode for all patients. Choice C is incorrect as patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease often have difficulty weaning from mechanical ventilation due to their underlying respiratory condition. Choice D is incorrect as wrist restraints are not applied to all patients on mechanical ventilation unless absolutely necessary for safety concerns, such as preventing self-extubation.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The presence of a bruit over the thyroid indicates increased blood flow, characteristic of hyperthyroidism. This excess blood flow is due to the hypermetabolic state in hyperthyroidism, leading to turbulent blood flow and the audible bruit. A bruit is not typically associated with hypothyroidism, thyroid cysts, or thyroid cancer, as these conditions do not cause increased blood flow. Therefore, the correct interpretation is hyperthyroidism.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Step-by-step rationale for why choice C is correct: 1. Intrapulmonary shunting refers to blood bypassing the normal oxygenation process in the lungs. 2. Choice C describes blood being shunted from the right side of the heart (deoxygenated blood) to the left side without oxygenation, leading to systemic circulation without oxygenation. 3. Choices A, B, and D do not accurately describe intrapulmonary shunting as they focus on other concepts like alveolar perfusion, heart failure, and unilateral lung blood supply, respectively.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Graduated compression stockings. These stockings help prevent blood from pooling in the legs, reducing the risk of DVT and PE. They improve circulation and reduce venous stasis. Option B, heparin, is used for treatment, not prevention. Option C, sequential compression devices, help prevent DVT but are not as effective as compression stockings. Option D, strict bed rest, can actually increase the risk of DVT by reducing blood flow.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A, hypotension. During hemodialysis for acute kidney injury, fluid removal can lead to hypotension due to rapid changes in blood volume. This can cause dizziness, weakness, and even loss of consciousness. Dysrhythmias (choice B) are less common but can occur due to electrolyte imbalances. Muscle cramps (choice C) may occur during or after dialysis due to electrolyte imbalances or fluid shifts, but they are not as common as hypotension. Hemolysis (choice D) is not a common complication of hemodialysis for acute kidney injury, as it is more commonly associated with issues related to the dialysis machine or blood tubing.