Questions 9

ATI RN

ATI RN Test Bank

Critical Care Nursing Exam Questions Questions

Question 1 of 5

A family member tells the nurse, 'I don’t know how I’m going to manage without my mother. She took care of everything for us.' Which response by the nurse is most appropriate?

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A because it acknowledges the family member's feelings while offering support and resources for managing the situation gradually. By providing resources, the nurse empowers the family member to learn how to handle things independently over time. This approach promotes self-reliance and resilience. Choice B focuses on time rather than active coping strategies, which may not address the family member's immediate needs. Choice C suggests shifting responsibilities to another family member without considering the emotional impact. Choice D jumps to the conclusion of needing professional counseling without exploring other potential solutions or support systems.

Question 2 of 5

The term used to describe an increase in blood urea nitrogen (BUN) and serum creatinine is

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: azotemia. Azotemia refers to an increase in BUN and serum creatinine levels, indicating impaired kidney function. Oliguria (A) is a decrease in urine output, not specific to BUN and creatinine levels. Acute kidney injury (C) is a broader term encompassing various causes of kidney dysfunction, not specific to elevated BUN and creatinine. Prerenal disease (D) refers to conditions affecting blood flow to the kidneys, not directly related to elevated BUN and creatinine levels.

Question 3 of 5

The nursing is caring for a patient who has had an arterial line inserted. To reduce the risk of complications, what is the priority nursing intervention?

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Obtain a portable x-ray to confirm placement. This is the priority intervention because it ensures the arterial line is correctly positioned, reducing the risk of complications such as dislodgement or improper placement. Applying a pressure dressing (choice A) may be necessary but is not the priority. Ensuring tubing connections are tightened (choice B) is important for preventing leaks but does not address placement. Restraining the affected extremity (choice D) is unnecessary and can lead to complications. The x-ray confirms correct placement, ensuring accurate monitoring and treatment.

Question 4 of 5

An 80-year-old client is given morphine sulphate for postoperative pain. Which concomitant medication should the nurse question that poses a potential development of urinary retention in this geriatric client?

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Tricyclic antidepressants. Tricyclic antidepressants can cause anticholinergic effects, including urinary retention, especially in the elderly. Morphine sulfate can also contribute to urinary retention. Antacids (A) and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory agents (C) are not known to cause urinary retention. Insulin (D) does not pose a risk for urinary retention in this scenario.

Question 5 of 5

The nurse is caring for a patient whose ventilator settings i nclude 15 cm H O of positive end-expiratory pressure (PEEP). The nurse understands that although beneficial, PEEP may result in what possible problem?

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Rationale for Correct Answer (D - Low cardiac output secondary to increased intrathoracic pressure): 1. PEEP increases intrathoracic pressure, which can impede venous return to the heart. 2. Impaired venous return reduces preload, leading to decreased cardiac output. 3. Decreased cardiac output can result in inadequate tissue perfusion and oxygenation. 4. Therefore, PEEP may cause low cardiac output due to increased intrathoracic pressure. Summary of Incorrect Choices: A. Fluid overload is not directly related to PEEP but more to fluid administration or kidney function. B. High cardiac index is unlikely as PEEP can decrease cardiac output. C. Hypoxemia is not a direct result of PEEP but may occur due to other factors like inadequate ventilation or oxygenation settings.

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