ATI RN
Critical Care Nursing Practice Questions Questions
Question 1 of 5
The nurse is caring for a 48-year-old patient who is intubated and on a ventilator following extensive abdominal surgery. Although the patient is respo nsive, the nurse is not able to read the patient’s lips as the patient attempts to mouth the words. Which of the following assessment tools would be the most appropriate for the nu rse to use when assessing the patient’s pain level? (Select all that apply.)
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: The FACES scale. This scale uses facial expressions to assess pain, making it suitable for a patient who is unable to verbalize. The nurse can show the patient a series of faces depicting varying levels of pain and ask them to point to the one that best represents their pain level. This method is non-verbal and easy for patients to understand. The other choices are incorrect: B: The Pain Intensity Scale requires the patient to rate their pain on a numerical scale, which may be difficult for a non-verbal patient. C: The PQRST method is a mnemonic for assessing pain characteristics (provocation, quality, region, severity, timing), but it requires patient communication. D: The Visual Analogue Scale involves marking a point on a line to indicate pain intensity, which is not suitable for a non-verbal patient.
Question 2 of 5
When it is noted that a patient’s endotracheal tube is not se cured tightened, he respiratory care practitioner assists the nurse in taping the tube. After the tu be is retaped, the nurse auscultates the patient’s lungs and notes that the breath sounds over the left lung fields are absent. The nurse suspects is the cause of this finding?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: The endotracheal tube is in the right mainstem bronchus. When the endotracheal tube is not secured properly and is retaped, there is a possibility that it may have migrated into the right mainstem bronchus, leading to absent breath sounds in the left lung fields. This condition is known as endobronchial intubation. In such cases, ventilation primarily occurs in the right lung, resulting in decreased or absent breath sounds on the contralateral side. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect as they do not explain the absence of breath sounds over the left lung fields in this specific scenario.
Question 3 of 5
The nurse is caring for a patient whose condition has deter iorated and is now not responding to standard treatment. The primary health care provider ca lls for an ethical consultation with the family to discuss potential withdrawal versus aggressivabei rtbr.ceoamtm/teestn t. The nurse understands that applying a model for ethical decision making involves which of the following? (Select all that apply.)
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Burden versus benefit. In ethical decision-making, considering the burden of treatment on the patient versus the potential benefits is crucial. This involves weighing the risks, benefits, and potential harm of treatment options. Family's wishes (B) and patient's wishes (C) are important factors but may not always align with what is ethically best for the patient. Potential outcomes of treatment options (D) are relevant but do not directly address the ethical dilemma of balancing burden and benefit. Therefore, A is the correct choice as it directly relates to the ethical principles guiding decision-making in this scenario.
Question 4 of 5
A nurse wishes to practice using the Synergy Model developed by the American Association of Critical-Care Nurses (AACN). What nursing behavior best supports use of this model?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Self-directed study of best practice for the patients she cares for. This choice aligns with the Synergy Model by promoting individualized patient care based on best practices. Self-directed study allows the nurse to enhance their knowledge and skills to provide optimal care tailored to each patient's unique needs. Attending mandatory in-service programs (A) may not directly support the individualized care approach. Gathering demographic data (C) is important but not specific to the Synergy Model's focus on patient acuity and nurse competencies. Participating in a research study (D) may contribute to evidence-based practice, but it does not directly relate to the Synergy Model's emphasis on aligning nurse competencies with patient needs.
Question 5 of 5
A young adult patient with metastatic cancer, who is very close to death, appears restless. The patient keeps repeating, 'I am not ready to die.' Which action is best for the nurse to take?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B because sitting at the bedside and asking if there is anything the patient needs demonstrates empathy and support. It allows the patient to express their concerns and fears, providing emotional comfort. It shows the nurse is actively listening and willing to help address any immediate needs or concerns. Choice A is incorrect because it dismisses the patient's feelings and may come across as invalidating. Choice C is incorrect because insisting that family members remain may not be what the patient needs at that moment and could cause additional stress. Choice D is incorrect because it does not address the patient's emotional distress and may not be true in the context of terminal illness.
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