Critical Care Nursing Questions and Answers PDF

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C because a respiratory rate of 32 breaths/minute indicates increased work of breathing, which could be due to secretions that need to be suctioned. High respiratory rate may suggest inadequate oxygenation and ventilation. Oxygen saturation of 93% (choice A) is within an acceptable range and does not necessarily indicate the need for suctioning. Time since last suctioning (choice B) should be considered but is not as immediate an indication as an increased respiratory rate. Occasional audible expiratory wheezes (choice D) may be indicative of other respiratory issues but do not directly indicate the need for suctioning.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Administer a prescribed PRN opioid analgesic. This is the priority intervention because severe breakthrough pain requires immediate relief, and opioids are the most effective for managing severe pain in terminally ill patients. Warm compresses (A) may provide some comfort but do not address the underlying pain. Reassessing pain after 2 hours (C) delays necessary relief. Distraction techniques (D) are not appropriate for severe breakthrough pain as they do not directly address the pain itself. Administering the prescribed opioid analgesic promptly is crucial for providing timely and effective pain management in this situation.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Correct Answer: D - Give acetaminophen (Tylenol) 650 mg per nasogastric tube. Rationale: LPNs/LVNs are trained to administer medications, including oral and nasogastric routes. Giving acetaminophen via nasogastric tube is within their scope of practice. LPNs/LVNs should have the knowledge and skills to safely administer this medication as part of the hypothermia protocol. Summary of other choices: A: Continuously monitor heart rhythm - This requires specialized training and skills typically within the scope of registered nurses or cardiac monitoring technicians. B: Check neurologic status every 2 hours - Assessing neurologic status requires critical thinking and clinical judgment, which are typically responsibilities of registered nurses. C: Place cooling blankets above and below the patient - Positioning and managing cooling devices may require specific training and should be done under the supervision of a registered nurse.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Rationale: D is correct because the synergy model focuses on individualized care based on patients' unique needs. This model emphasizes tailoring nursing competencies to address these needs, promoting holistic care. A is incorrect as certification is not a requirement. B involves family inclusion but does not capture the core concept. C mentions collaboration but does not specifically address individualized care.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C because obtaining certification in critical care nursing demonstrates the nurse's personal expertise in the specialty. Certification confirms the nurse's advanced knowledge and skills, enhancing professional credibility and potential for career advancement. This choice focuses on the individual nurse's competency and dedication to the specialty. Incorrect choices: A: Salary increase is not the primary benefit of certification, although it may be a potential outcome. B: Certification is often preferred but not always required to work in critical care. D: Employers may encourage certification, but it is not always mandated.