Critical Care Nursing Questions and Answers PDF

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: Pulmonary artery wedge pressure (PAWP). This is crucial in monitoring a patient with a large anterior wall myocardial infarction as it provides information on left ventricular function and fluid status. A high PAWP may indicate left ventricular failure or fluid overload, requiring immediate intervention. A: Central venous pressure (CVP) is not as specific for assessing left ventricular function and may not provide accurate information in this scenario. B: Systemic vascular resistance (SVR) is important in assessing systemic blood flow, but it may not directly indicate left ventricular function in this case. C: Pulmonary vascular resistance (PVR) is more relevant in conditions affecting the pulmonary circulation and may not be as immediately informative in assessing left ventricular function in this context.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A because assessing the structure of the family (who comprises the family) is not the last step in family assessment. The rationale is that understanding the family structure is essential at the beginning of the assessment process to identify key relationships and support systems. Assessing interaction among family members helps to understand dynamics and relationships within the family. Assessing communication is crucial to identify roles and patterns of interaction. Ongoing assessment is necessary as family dynamics can evolve throughout the illness. Therefore, A is false as family structure assessment is an important initial step, not the last step.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Rhinorrhoea or otorrhoea with Halo sign. This finding is consistent with a basilar skull fracture because it indicates a cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leak from the skull base. The Halo sign refers to a ring of CSF surrounded by blood, which can be seen on a white absorbent pad. This specific sign is a classic indicator of a basilar skull fracture, as the CSF leakage from the ears or nose can be tinged with blood due to the fracture disrupting nearby blood vessels. For the other choices: A: Hematemesis and abdominal distention are not typical manifestations of a basilar skull fracture. They are more indicative of gastrointestinal issues or internal bleeding. B: Asymmetry of the face and eye movements can be seen with facial nerve or orbital injuries, but it is not specific to a basilar skull fracture. D: Abnormal position and movement of the arm are not directly related to a

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: The patient may require fluid resuscitation. A decrease in arterial blood pressure during the inspiratory phase of ventilation suggests decreased preload, indicating possible hypovolemia. This can be addressed by administering fluid resuscitation to improve cardiac output and blood pressure. Incorrect Choices: A: The mechanical ventilator is malfunctioning - There is no evidence to suggest a ventilator malfunction based on the arterial pressure change. C: The arterial line may need to be replaced - The arterial line itself is unlikely to cause the observed pressure change. D: The left limb may have reduced perfusion - This is less likely as the pressure change is likely systemic due to decreased preload.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Rationale for Correct Answer (B - Brain death determination is required before organs can be retrieved for transplant): 1. Brain death determination is a medical necessity to ensure the organs are viable for transplant. 2. Organs must be retrieved promptly after brain death to maintain their functionality. 3. Brain death criteria ensure that the donor is truly deceased before organ retrieval. Summary of Why Other Choices are Incorrect: A: While discussing organ donation is important, comfort level is not the main factor in organ shortage awareness. C: Donation after cardiac death is ethically acceptable, but it is not directly related to the need for brain death determination. D: Withdrawing life support solely to become an organ donor is ethically questionable and not a necessary step in organ donation.