Critical Care Nursing Cardiac Questions

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A because in ARDS, there is a severe impairment in gas exchange leading to hypoxemia. Decreasing PaO2 levels despite increased FiO2 administration indicate poor oxygenation, a hallmark of ARDS. Elevated alveolar surfactant levels (Choice B) do not directly correlate with ARDS pathophysiology. Increased lung compliance with increased FiO2 administration (Choice C) is not characteristic of ARDS, as ARDS leads to decreased lung compliance. Respiratory acidosis associated with hyperventilation (Choice D) is not a typical finding in ARDS, as hyperventilation is usually present in an attempt to compensate for hypoxemia.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A because renin activates the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone cascade, which ultimately leads to vasoconstriction, increased blood pressure, and aldosterone release to increase sodium and water reabsorption. Renin does not suppress angiotensin production (B), decrease sodium reabsorption (C), or inhibit aldosterone release (D), as these actions would counteract its role in blood pressure regulation.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Step 1: Reconciling medications is essential for patient safety as it involves comparing current and ordered medications to ensure accuracy. Step 2: This process helps prevent medication errors, adverse drug reactions, and duplications across different care settings. Step 3: Communicating a complete list of medications to the next care provider ensures continuity of care and reduces the risk of medication discrepancies. Step 4: By reconciling medications across the continuum of care, healthcare providers can better coordinate patient care and optimize treatment outcomes. In summary, choice C is correct as it focuses on medication reconciliation to improve patient safety and care coordination. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect as they do not directly address the comprehensive process of reconciling medications across care settings.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C because asking about beliefs about the universe allows the nurse to understand the patient's spiritual needs and provide appropriate support. This action shows respect for the patient's beliefs and can help establish a connection between the patient and the nurse. Referring patients to a specific religious figure (choice A) may not align with the patient's beliefs. Providing prayer booklets (choice B) assumes the patient's belief system and may not be helpful. Avoiding discussing religion (choice D) can hinder the nurse-patient relationship and overlook potential sources of support for the patient.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D because the client's medical chart is the property of the hospital, but the client has the right to a copy of the information. By offering to make a copy of the chart for the client, the nurse respects the client's autonomy while also ensuring that the hospital maintains the original medical record. This response balances the client's rights with legal and ethical considerations. Choice A is incorrect because the hospital is legally obligated to maintain the client's medical record even if the client leaves against medical advice. Choice B is incorrect as it denies the client access to their medical information, which goes against the principle of patient autonomy. Choice C is also incorrect as it does not address the client's request for a copy of their chart.