Critical Care Nursing Cardiac Questions

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Avoid infusing vasoactive agents in the port used to obtain the TdCO measurement. This action ensures patient safety by preventing the introduction of vasoactive agents directly into the bloodstream during the measurement process. Infusing vasoactive agents can lead to inaccurate TdCO readings and potentially harm the patient. Choice A is incorrect because zero referencing the transducer system at the level of the phlebostatic axis is important for accurate pressure monitoring but not directly related to TdCO measurement safety. Choice C is incorrect as maintaining a pressure of 300 mm Hg on the flush solution bag is not directly related to the safety of TdCO measurement. Choice D is incorrect as limiting the length of noncompliant pressure tubing is important for accurate pressure readings but not directly related to the safety of TdCO measurement.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D because using an end-tidal CO2 monitor is the most reliable method to confirm correct endotracheal tube placement in the trachea. This method detects exhaled CO2, indicating proper tube placement in the trachea. It is a quick and efficient way to confirm placement without delay, reducing the risk of complications. A: Auscultating for bilateral breath sounds is not as reliable because breath sounds may be heard even if the tube is misplaced. B: Obtaining a portable chest x-ray is not the best initial action as it takes time and delays confirming tube placement. C: Observing chest movement may not provide conclusive evidence of proper tube placement and can lead to misinterpretation. In summary, using an end-tidal CO2 monitor is the most accurate and efficient method to verify correct endotracheal tube placement compared to the other options.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B because pet therapy has been shown to reduce anxiety and improve well-being in hospitalized patients. Interacting with therapy dogs can provide comfort, companionship, and a distraction from the hospital environment. Bringing in a therapy dog can help the trauma patient feel more relaxed and supported during their extended hospital stay. Choice A may be comforting but does not address the therapeutic benefits of pet therapy. Choice C may provide soothing music, but pet therapy has been specifically proven to reduce anxiety in patients. Choice D, observing fish in an aquarium, may be calming but does not involve the interactive benefits of pet therapy.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Teach the patient the reason for the use of prophylactic antibiotics. This is the most important action because human bites can introduce harmful bacteria into the wound, leading to infection. Prophylactic antibiotics help prevent infection in deep human bite wounds. Choice A is incorrect because rabies immune globulin is not indicated for human bite wounds. Choice B is incorrect because suturing human bite wounds can trap bacteria and increase the risk of infection. Choice D is incorrect because keeping the wounds dry is not sufficient; proper wound cleaning and antibiotic treatment are essential in this case.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Rationale: 1. Acute tubular necrosis (ATN) is the most common intrarenal condition as it directly affects kidney tubules. 2. ATN is characterized by damage to renal tubular cells due to various factors like toxins or ischemia. 3. Prolonged ischemia (choice A) can lead to ATN but is not the most common intrarenal condition. 4. Exposure to nephrotoxic substances (choice B) can cause ATN, but ATN itself is more common. 5. Hypotension for several hours (choice D) can result in ischemia and subsequent ATN, but ATN is still the primary intrarenal condition.