Critical Care Nursing Practice Questions

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D because the patient is exhibiting Cheyne-Stokes breathing pattern characterized by periods of apnea followed by deep and rapid breathing. The nurse should document this pattern accurately. Option A is incorrect as suctioning is not indicated. Option B may worsen the respiratory pattern. Option C is not specifically related to addressing the breathing pattern.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Rationale: The correct answer is A: A card from the girl's family. The nurse would value this form of recognition the most because it directly reflects the impact of her care on the patient and her family. It is a personal, heartfelt gesture that acknowledges the nurse's compassion and dedication. A card from the family shows genuine appreciation and gratitude for the nurse's efforts, making it the most meaningful form of recognition. Summary: - Choice B: A plaque from the ICU physicians could be seen as a formal recognition but lacks the personal touch and direct impact of the nurse's care on the patient and family. - Choice C: A letter of commendation from the hospital's administration is a professional acknowledgment but may not capture the emotional connection and impact that the nurse had on the family. - Choice D: A bouquet of flowers from her supervisor is a nice gesture but does not necessarily reflect the specific impact of the nurse's care on the patient and family.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B because effective communication ensures that the patient's wishes and values are understood and respected, leading to informed decision-making. It also promotes shared decision-making among the patient, family, and healthcare team, enhancing the quality of care. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because while they are important aspects of end-of-life care, they do not address the core element of communication in facilitating meaningful and informed decisions.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D because the patient has a high-risk wound (tissue avulsion) and no documented prior tetanus vaccination. TIG provides immediate passive immunity to tetanus, while Tdap stimulates active immunity. TIG covers immediate needs, while Tdap ensures long-term immunity. Choice A (TIG only) does not provide long-term immunity. Choice B (TIG and Td) does not include pertussis coverage, which Tdap (Choice D) does. Choice C (Tdap only) does not cover immediate needs as TIG does.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: Increased confidence in critical thinking. Achieving certification in critical care nursing validates the nurse's expertise and knowledge in this specialized area, leading to increased confidence in their ability to critically think through complex patient situations. This confidence translates into improved clinical decision-making and patient outcomes. A: Recognition by peers - While recognition by peers is important for professional growth, the primary benefit of certification is enhancing clinical skills. B: Increase in salary and rank - While certification may lead to salary increases in some cases, the most significant impact is on improving clinical skills. C: More flexibility in seeking employment - While certification may enhance employability, the focus is on improving critical thinking skills rather than employment opportunities.