Critical Care Nursing Practice Questions

Questions 81

ATI RN

ATI RN Test Bank

Critical Care Nursing Practice Questions Questions

Question 1 of 5

What diagnostic procedure is required to make a definitive diagnosis of pulmonary embolism?

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: High resolution multidetector CT angiogram. This diagnostic procedure is required for a definitive diagnosis of pulmonary embolism because it provides detailed imaging of the pulmonary vasculature, allowing visualization of blood clots in the pulmonary arteries. A: Arterial blood gas (ABG) analysis does not directly diagnose pulmonary embolism but may show signs of hypoxemia or respiratory alkalosis, which can be seen in some cases of pulmonary embolism. B: Chest x-ray examination may show nonspecific findings such as atelectasis or pleural effusion but cannot definitively diagnose pulmonary embolism. D: Ventilation-perfusion scanning is another imaging modality used in the diagnosis of pulmonary embolism, but it is less commonly used compared to CT angiogram due to lower sensitivity and specificity.

Question 2 of 5

While waiting for cardiac transplantation, a patient with severe cardiomyopathy has a ventricular assist device (VAD) implanted. When planning care for this patient, the nurse should anticipate:

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D because monitoring the surgical incision for signs of infection is essential post-VAD implantation to prevent complications. This step is crucial in early identification and treatment of any potential infection, which can lead to serious outcomes. A) Giving immunosuppressive medications is not typically required for VAD implantation, as the primary goal is to support cardiac function rather than prevent rejection. B) Preparing the patient for a permanent VAD is premature, as the goal is often to bridge to transplantation or recovery, not permanent VAD placement. C) Teaching the patient the reason for complete bed rest is not necessary for VAD implantation, as patients are typically encouraged to gradually increase activity levels under guidance.

Question 3 of 5

A nurse wishes to practice using the Synergy Model developed by the American Association of Critical-Care Nurses (AACN). What nursing behavior best supports use of this model?

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Self-directed study of best practice for the patients she cares for. This choice aligns with the Synergy Model by promoting individualized patient care based on best practices. Self-directed study allows the nurse to enhance their knowledge and skills to provide optimal care tailored to each patient's unique needs. Attending mandatory in-service programs (A) may not directly support the individualized care approach. Gathering demographic data (C) is important but not specific to the Synergy Model's focus on patient acuity and nurse competencies. Participating in a research study (D) may contribute to evidence-based practice, but it does not directly relate to the Synergy Model's emphasis on aligning nurse competencies with patient needs.

Question 4 of 5

Which patient should the nurse refer for hospice care?

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C because the patient with AIDS-related dementia requires palliative care and pain management, which are key components of hospice care. This patient is likely in the terminal stage of their illness and would benefit from the comprehensive support provided by hospice services. Choice A is incorrect because the patient's children's inability to discuss dying issues does not necessarily indicate a need for hospice care. Choice B is incorrect as chronic severe pain due to spinal arthritis is not a sole criterion for hospice referral. Choice D is incorrect as advanced liver failure alone does not automatically qualify a patient for hospice care.

Question 5 of 5

The nurse identifies a client's needs and formulates the nursing problem of, 'Imbalanced nutrition: less than body requirements, related to mental impairment and decreased intake, as evidenced by increasing confusion and weight loss of more than 30 pounds over the last 6 months.' Which short-term goal is best for this client?

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct short-term goal for the client with imbalanced nutrition is choice B: Eat 50% of six small meals each day by the end of one week. This goal is specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART). By setting a goal for the client to eat a specific amount of meals within a defined timeframe, it allows for objective monitoring of progress. This goal also addresses the client's decreased intake and aims to improve their nutritional status gradually. Choice A is incorrect as verbalizing understanding does not directly address the client's nutritional needs. Choice C is not appropriate as it does not promote independence in meal consumption. Choice D is not the best short-term goal as it focuses on the outcome of weight gain rather than the process of increasing food intake. Overall, choice B is the most appropriate short-term goal as it targets the client's specific nutritional needs and provides a clear direction for intervention.

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