Critical Care Nursing Exam Questions

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B. Increased peak inspiratory pressure on the ventilator would cue the nurse to the potential of ARDS in a patient with respiratory distress. ARDS is characterized by severe respiratory failure with bilateral pulmonary infiltrates. An increase in peak inspiratory pressure on the ventilator indicates that the lungs are becoming stiffer, which is a common finding in ARDS due to increased inflammation and fluid accumulation in the alveoli. This finding alerts the nurse to the possibility of ARDS and the need for further assessment and intervention. Summary of other choices: A: Increased oxygen saturation via pulse oximetry is a nonspecific finding and may not specifically indicate ARDS. C: Normal chest radiograph with enlarged cardiac structures is more indicative of heart failure rather than ARDS. D: PaO2/FiO2 ratio > 300 is a criterion used to diagnose ARDS, but a value higher than 300 actually indicates mild ARDS, so it would not necessarily cue the nurse

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: First, the nurse should assess the patient's lungs to rule out any potential respiratory issues causing fluid retention. This is crucial as the patient has signs of fluid imbalance with decreased output and increased weight. Assessing the lungs can help identify conditions like heart failure or pneumonia that may contribute to these changes. Drawing a trough level (choice A) is not a priority as it doesn't address the immediate concern of fluid imbalance. Placing the patient on fluid restriction (choice B) should only be done after identifying the cause of the imbalance. Inserting an indwelling catheter (choice D) is not necessary at this point as the issue is related to fluid balance, not urinary elimination.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Rationale: Choice A is the correct answer because it reflects a positive attitude towards potential future treatments in the critical care unit and gratitude for being able to see family again. The survivor acknowledges the past experience but remains optimistic. Summary: - Choice B is incorrect as it shows a strong aversion to hospital care, indicating a preference for death over treatment. - Choice C is incorrect as it focuses on the family's reaction and not the survivor's personal experience or perspective. - Choice D is incorrect as it highlights a trivial aspect (eating) rather than reflecting on the ICU experience or future treatments.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Helps to support the patient's immune system. Providing supportive care such as nutrition, oxygenation, pain management, and anxiety control can help reduce stress, which in turn supports the immune system. Stress weakens the immune system, making the patient more vulnerable to infections and complications. By addressing stress and anxiety through supportive care, the patient's immune system is better able to function optimally, aiding in the recovery process. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because: B: Part of good nursing care - While supportive care is indeed part of good nursing care, the key rationale for these interventions in a critically ill patient is to support the immune system, not just to provide good nursing care. C: Mandated by hospital policy - Hospital policies may dictate certain aspects of care, but the primary goal of these interventions is to support the patient's immune system, not just to comply with hospital policies. D: Reassures the patient and family - While providing reass

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C because it empowers the family to take action by requesting a physician evaluation of the patient's pain control. This step is crucial in ensuring that the patient's pain is adequately managed. By involving the physician, the family can advocate for the patient's needs and potentially explore alternative pain management strategies. Choice A is incorrect because it dismisses the family's concerns and fails to address the need for further evaluation. Choice B may provide temporary relief but does not address the underlying issue of inadequate pain control. Choice D is incorrect as it suggests delaying action, which could lead to prolonged suffering for the patient.