Critical Care Nursing Questions

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: a normal serum creatinine level. In renal insufficiency, the kidneys are not able to filter waste products effectively, leading to an increase in serum creatinine levels. This is a common indicator of renal dysfunction. A: An increased GFR would not be expected in renal insufficiency, as it signifies improved kidney function. C: Increased ability to excrete drugs is not a typical finding in renal insufficiency, as impaired kidney function can lead to drug accumulation. D: Hypokalemia is not directly related to renal insufficiency. It is more commonly associated with factors like diuretic use or gastrointestinal losses.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Body temperature. In a patient who has fallen through the ice, hypothermia is a major concern due to exposure to cold water. Assessing body temperature first is crucial to determine the severity of hypothermia and guide immediate interventions. Heart rate, breath sounds, and level of consciousness can be affected by hypothermia but are secondary assessments. Assessing body temperature is the priority to address the most life-threatening issue first.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: a normal serum creatinine level. In renal insufficiency, the kidneys are not able to filter waste products effectively, leading to an increase in serum creatinine levels. This is a common indicator of renal dysfunction. A: An increased GFR would not be expected in renal insufficiency, as it signifies improved kidney function. C: Increased ability to excrete drugs is not a typical finding in renal insufficiency, as impaired kidney function can lead to drug accumulation. D: Hypokalemia is not directly related to renal insufficiency. It is more commonly associated with factors like diuretic use or gastrointestinal losses.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B because an increase in heart rate and respiratory rate can be a normal response before body system functions decrease in a hospice patient. This is known as a compensatory mechanism as the body tries to maintain oxygenation. Choice A is incorrect because symptoms may not always continue to increase until death. Choice C is incorrect as it implies a reflex response, which may not be the case. Choice D is incorrect as an improvement in the patient's condition is unlikely in a hospice setting.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Step 1: Abdominal pain, chills, and elevated temperature suggest a serious complication like visceral perforation. Step 2: Peritoneal dialysate return assessment won't address the potential life-threatening issue. Step 3: Checking blood sugar or evaluating neurological status is not relevant to the presenting symptoms. Step 4: Informing the provider of probable visceral perforation is crucial for prompt intervention and further evaluation.