ATI RN
Critical Care Nursing Exam Questions Questions
Question 1 of 5
The nurse wishes to increase the use of evidence-based practice in the critical care unit where he works. What is a significant barrier to the implementation of evidence-based practice?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Rationale: The correct answer is C because lack of knowledge about literature searches hinders the ability to find and utilize evidence-based practice guidelines. Nurses need to be skilled in conducting literature searches to access relevant research. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect as they do not directly impede the implementation of evidence-based practice in the critical care unit.
Question 2 of 5
A nurse walks into a patients room and begins preparing a syringe to perform a blood draw on the patient. The nurse observes that the patient is firmly gripping the side of the bed, averting her eyes, and sweating from her forehead when she sees the needle. What would be the best intervention for the nurse to make?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D because it shows empathy and promotes patient education. By describing the procedure and its necessity, the nurse can alleviate the patient's anxiety and build trust. This approach allows the patient to feel informed and in control, reducing fear and increasing cooperation. It also demonstrates respect for the patient's feelings and promotes a therapeutic relationship. Choice A is incorrect as it disregards the patient's fear and can lead to increased distress. Choice B might be an option, but it doesn't address the patient's anxiety in the moment. Choice C, while helpful in some cases, doesn't directly address the patient's specific fear of the blood draw procedure.
Question 3 of 5
A critically ill patient experiences stress and anxiety from many factors. Treatment of the patient focuses on reducing stressors and providing supportive care such as nutrition, oxygenation, pain management, control of anxiety, and specific care of the illness or injury. What is the best rationale for these interventions?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Helps to support the patient's immune system. Providing supportive care such as nutrition, oxygenation, pain management, and anxiety control can help reduce stress, which in turn supports the immune system. Stress weakens the immune system, making the patient more vulnerable to infections and complications. By addressing stress and anxiety through supportive care, the patient's immune system is better able to function optimally, aiding in the recovery process. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because: B: Part of good nursing care - While supportive care is indeed part of good nursing care, the key rationale for these interventions in a critically ill patient is to support the immune system, not just to provide good nursing care. C: Mandated by hospital policy - Hospital policies may dictate certain aspects of care, but the primary goal of these interventions is to support the patient's immune system, not just to comply with hospital policies. D: Reassures the patient and family - While providing reass
Question 4 of 5
While caring for a critically ill patient, the nurse knows that fostering patient control over the environment is a method for stress reduction. What nursing intervention gives the patient the most environmental control while still adhering to best practice principles?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Step 1: Asking the patient whether he or she wants to get out of bed allows the patient to make a decision regarding their immediate environment, promoting autonomy and control. Step 2: This intervention respects the patient's preferences and fosters a sense of dignity and empowerment, reducing stress. Step 3: Best practice principles in nursing emphasize patient-centered care and promoting patient autonomy. Summary: Choice A is correct as it directly involves the patient in decision-making, enhancing their sense of control. Choices B, C, and D do not provide the same level of autonomy and control to the patient, making them less effective in reducing stress and promoting patient well-being.
Question 5 of 5
A critically ill patient who is intubated and agitated is restrained with soft wrist restraints. Based on research findings, what is the best nursing action?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D: Assess and intervene for causes of agitation. In a critically ill patient, agitation while intubated could indicate underlying issues like pain, delirium, or inadequate sedation. By assessing and addressing the root cause of agitation, the nurse can improve patient comfort and prevent potential harm from restraints. Removing restraints periodically for skin integrity (B) and range of motion (C) is important but should not be the primary focus when agitation is present. Maintaining restraints (A) without addressing the agitation could lead to increased distress and potential complications.