ATI RN
Critical Care Nursing Practice Questions Questions
Question 1 of 5
The nurse identifies a client's needs and formulates the nursing problem of, 'Imbalanced nutrition: less than body requirements, related to mental impairment and decreased intake, as evidenced by increasing confusion and weight loss of more than 30 pounds over the last 6 months.' Which short-term goal is best for this client?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct short-term goal for the client with imbalanced nutrition is choice B: Eat 50% of six small meals each day by the end of one week. This goal is specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART). By setting a goal for the client to eat a specific amount of meals within a defined timeframe, it allows for objective monitoring of progress. This goal also addresses the client's decreased intake and aims to improve their nutritional status gradually. Choice A is incorrect as verbalizing understanding does not directly address the client's nutritional needs. Choice C is not appropriate as it does not promote independence in meal consumption. Choice D is not the best short-term goal as it focuses on the outcome of weight gain rather than the process of increasing food intake. Overall, choice B is the most appropriate short-term goal as it targets the client's specific nutritional needs and provides a clear direction for intervention.
Question 2 of 5
The nurse is assessing an older client and determines that the client's left upper eyelid droops, covering more of the iris than the right eyelid. Which description should the nurse use to document this finding?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: Ptosis on the left eyelid. Ptosis refers to drooping of the eyelid, which is a common condition in older adults. In this scenario, the nurse should document the finding as ptosis on the left eyelid because the client's left upper eyelid is drooping, covering more of the iris than the right eyelid. Explanation: Nystagmus (A) is an involuntary eye movement, not related to eyelid drooping. Exophthalmos (B) is the protrusion of the eyeball and not relevant to this scenario. Astigmatism (D) refers to a refractive error of the eye and does not cause eyelid drooping. Therefore, the correct choice is C as it accurately describes the client's condition.
Question 3 of 5
A hospital interviews two different candidates for a position in the ICU. Both candidates have around 10 years of experience working in the ICU. Both have excellent interpersonal skills and highly positive references. One, however, has certification in critical care nursing. Which of the following is the most compelling and accurate reason for the hospital to hire the candidate with certification?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: The certified nurse will have more knowledge and expertise. Certification in critical care nursing indicates that the candidate has undergone specialized training and passed a standardized exam, demonstrating a higher level of knowledge and skill in critical care practices compared to a non-certified candidate. This certification ensures that the nurse has met specific competency standards in critical care, making them better equipped to handle complex situations in the ICU. Summary: - Choice B (ethical behavior) and Choice C (caring towards patients) are subjective qualities that can be present in both certified and non-certified nurses. - Choice D (collaboration with other nurses) is not directly related to certification but can be influenced by the individual's interpersonal skills. - Ultimately, the certification in critical care nursing provides concrete evidence of the candidate's advanced knowledge and expertise, making them the most compelling choice for the hospital to hire.
Question 4 of 5
An ICU nurse has provided excellent care for a 6-year-old girl who had been admitted to the ICU for a head injury. The nurse was attentive not only to the needs of the patient but also went out of her way to care for the needs of the girls family. According to research, which of the following forms of recognition would the nurse value the most?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Rationale: The correct answer is A: A card from the girl's family. The nurse would value this form of recognition the most because it directly reflects the impact of her care on the patient and her family. It is a personal, heartfelt gesture that acknowledges the nurse's compassion and dedication. A card from the family shows genuine appreciation and gratitude for the nurse's efforts, making it the most meaningful form of recognition. Summary: - Choice B: A plaque from the ICU physicians could be seen as a formal recognition but lacks the personal touch and direct impact of the nurse's care on the patient and family. - Choice C: A letter of commendation from the hospital's administration is a professional acknowledgment but may not capture the emotional connection and impact that the nurse had on the family. - Choice D: A bouquet of flowers from her supervisor is a nice gesture but does not necessarily reflect the specific impact of the nurse's care on the patient and family.
Question 5 of 5
A nurse has achieved certification in critical care nursing. What is the most important effect that this certification will have on the nurses practice?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D: Increased confidence in critical thinking. Achieving certification in critical care nursing validates the nurse's expertise and knowledge in this specialized area, leading to increased confidence in their ability to critically think through complex patient situations. This confidence translates into improved clinical decision-making and patient outcomes. A: Recognition by peers - While recognition by peers is important for professional growth, the primary benefit of certification is enhancing clinical skills. B: Increase in salary and rank - While certification may lead to salary increases in some cases, the most significant impact is on improving clinical skills. C: More flexibility in seeking employment - While certification may enhance employability, the focus is on improving critical thinking skills rather than employment opportunities.