Critical Care Nursing Questions and Answers PDF

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A because PE should be suspected in patients with unexplained cardiorespiratory complaints and risk factors for VTE. This is important because PE can present with nonspecific symptoms, making it crucial to consider it in the differential diagnosis. Explanation: 1. PE can present with various symptoms, including dyspnea, chest pain, and hemoptysis, but these are not present in all patients. 2. Bradycardia and hyperventilation are not classic symptoms of PE, as it can present with tachycardia and other respiratory findings. 3. Critically ill patients are actually at higher risk for VTE and PE, so prophylaxis is typically recommended. In summary, choice A is correct because it emphasizes the importance of considering PE in patients with cardiorespiratory complaints and risk factors for VTE, while the other choices contain inaccuracies or incomplete information.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Hemoglobin of 8 g/dL. Low hemoglobin levels can lead to inadequate oxygen delivery to tissues, causing respiratory distress and difficulty weaning from mechanical ventilation. This is due to reduced oxygen-carrying capacity leading to increased work of breathing. A: Cardiac output of 6 L/min is within normal range and not directly related to difficulty weaning from mechanical ventilation. C: Negative sputum culture and sensitivity indicate absence of respiratory infection but not a direct cause of difficulty weaning. D: White blood cell count of 8000 is within normal range and not a direct cause of difficulty weaning.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A because evaluating morning lab results is crucial to monitor the patient's condition before dialysis. Abnormal results may impact the dialysis treatment plan. Option B is incorrect as administering antihypertensive medications is not directly related to dialysis. Option C is incorrect as assessing the dialysis access site is the responsibility of the dialysis team. Option D is incorrect as weighing the patient is not typically done immediately before dialysis.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C because inquiring about specific cultural rituals and preferences shows respect for the patient's cultural beliefs and values. By asking about these aspects, the nurse can provide care that aligns with the patient's cultural background, promoting comfort and understanding. This action also demonstrates a commitment to individualized care. Choice A is incorrect because standardized care may not always be culturally appropriate. Choice B is incorrect as avoiding discussions about death can hinder effective communication and support. Choice D is incorrect as advising families to strictly follow hospital guidelines may overlook the importance of cultural considerations in end-of-life care.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A (Pain relief) because palliative care aims to provide comfort and improve the quality of life for individuals with serious illnesses. Pain relief is a crucial goal in palliative care to alleviate physical suffering. Nausea relief (B) is also commonly addressed in palliative care, but it is not a universal goal. Psychological support (C) is an important aspect of palliative care but is not always a primary goal. Withdrawal of life-support interventions (D) is not a goal of palliative care, as palliative care focuses on symptom management and improving quality of life, not hastening death.