ATI RN
Critical Care Nursing Exam Questions Questions
Question 1 of 5
The nurse caring for a patient with an endotracheal tube un derstands that endotracheal suctioning is needed to facilitate removal of secretions. What additional information is the nurse aware of concerning this intervention?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Rationale for Correct Answer C: Endotracheal suctioning should be done as indicated by patient assessment because not all patients require routine suctioning. Performing unnecessary suctioning can lead to potential complications such as mucosal damage and increased risk of infection. Therefore, the nurse must assess the patient's respiratory status, auscultate lung sounds, monitor oxygen saturation levels, and observe for signs of increased secretions before deciding to perform suctioning. Summary of Incorrect Choices: A: Endotracheal suctioning does not directly impact intracranial pressure. It is primarily focused on maintaining airway patency and removing respiratory secretions. B: While endotracheal suctioning may temporarily suppress the cough reflex during the procedure, its primary purpose is to clear airway secretions to prevent complications such as atelectasis and respiratory distress. D: Saline instillation before suctioning is not recommended as it can lead to negative outcomes such as dehydration, mucosal damage, and increased risk of infection
Question 2 of 5
A patient who has been diagnosed with inoperable lung cancer and has a poor prognosis plans a trip across the country to settle some issues with their siblings. The nurse recognizes that the patient is manifesting which psychosocial response to death?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: Anxiety about unfinished business. The patient's desire to settle issues with their siblings before death indicates a concern about unresolved matters. This response aligns with the concept of psychosocial responses to death, specifically the need for closure and resolution. Restlessness (choice A) may not necessarily indicate a specific focus on unfinished business. Yearning and protest (choice B) typically refer to the initial stages of grief, not specifically related to settling unresolved issues. Fear of the meaninglessness of one's life (choice D) is more existential and philosophical, whereas the patient's focus here is on addressing specific issues with their siblings.
Question 3 of 5
The nurse recommends that the family of a critically ill patient seek help from the Critical Care Family Assistance Program. What benefit for the family does the nurse anticipate?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: Multidisciplinary support. The Critical Care Family Assistance Program offers a range of professionals such as social workers, counselors, and financial advisors to provide holistic support to the family. This helps address emotional, financial, and practical needs during a challenging time. Option A is incorrect because the program does not directly reduce healthcare costs. Option B is incorrect as the focus is not solely on physical comfort but on comprehensive support. Option D is incorrect as the primary aim is not health promotion but rather addressing the family's immediate concerns and needs.
Question 4 of 5
The charge nurse is supervising the care of four critical ca re patients being monitored using invasive hemodynamic modalities. Which patient should t he charge nurse evaluate first?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A because the patient in cardiogenic shock with a cardiac output of 2.0 L/min is experiencing a life-threatening condition that requires immediate evaluation. Cardiogenic shock indicates poor cardiac function, which can lead to multi-organ failure. Monitoring cardiac output is crucial in managing these patients. Choice B is incorrect because a pulmonary artery systolic pressure of 20 mm Hg is within normal range and does not indicate an immediate life-threatening condition. Choice C is incorrect because a CVP of 6 mm Hg in a hypovolemic patient may indicate volume depletion, but it is not as urgent as the patient in cardiogenic shock. Choice D is incorrect because a PAOP of 10 mm Hg is within normal range and does not suggest an immediate critical condition.
Question 5 of 5
Which statement is a likely response from someone who h as survived a stay in the critical care unit?
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.