Critical Care Nursing Questions

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D because it accurately states that withholding "extraordinary" resuscitation is legal and should be based on specified criteria in advance directives and physician orders. This is in line with medical ethics and patient autonomy. A is incorrect because family presence during resuscitation can be beneficial for emotional support and decision-making. B is incorrect as it is still necessary for a physician to document "do not resuscitate" orders even with a healthcare surrogate. C is incorrect as "slow codes" are not ethical and go against the principle of beneficence.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Dialysis. In the context of terminally ill clients, withdrawing dialysis is appropriate as it can be burdensome without providing significant benefit towards the end of life. Dialysis does not cure terminal conditions and can prolong suffering unnecessarily. Antibiotics (A) may be necessary for managing infections in terminally ill clients. Nutrition (C) is important for comfort and quality of life. Pain medications (D) are essential for managing pain and should not be withdrawn unless no longer beneficial or requested by the patient.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Explaining all procedures in easy-to-understand terms. This intervention is appropriate as it helps reduce the patient's anxiety by providing clear information about what to expect during their stay in the critical care unit. This promotes a sense of control and understanding, which can positively impact the patient's coping mechanisms. A: Allowing unrestricted visiting by several family members at one time may overwhelm the patient and interfere with their rest and recovery. C: Providing back massage and mouth care may be beneficial but may not directly address the patient's need for information and understanding. D: Turning down the alarm volume on the cardiac monitor may provide a more comfortable environment but does not address the patient's emotional and psychological needs related to coping with admission to the critical care unit.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Decrease the risk of bradycardia during surgery. Rationale: 1. Atropine is an anticholinergic medication that works by blocking the parasympathetic nervous system. 2. During surgery, the parasympathetic stimulation can lead to bradycardia (slow heart rate). 3. By administering atropine, the nurse can counteract the bradycardic effects and maintain a normal heart rate during the procedure. 4. Options A, B, and D are incorrect as atropine is not used for inducing anesthesia, relaxation, or minimizing postoperative analgesia.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B because after brain death is confirmed, maintaining perfusion and oxygenation of organs is crucial to ensure their viability for donation. This process allows organs to be retrieved in optimal condition during the operation. Choice A is incorrect because a signed donor card is not a legal mandate for organ retrieval. Choice C is incorrect as the healthcare proxy's consent is typically required for organ donation. Choice D is incorrect because life support is not immediately withdrawn upon brain death confirmation; instead, organ preservation measures are initiated.