ATI RN
Critical Care Nursing Questions and Answers PDF Questions
Question 1 of 5
The spouse of a patient with terminal cancer visits daily and cheerfully talks with the patient about wedding anniversary plans for the next year. When the nurse asks about any concerns, the spouse says, 'I’m busy at work, but otherwise, things are fine.' Which nursing diagnosis is most appropriate?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Ineffective coping related to lack of grieving. The spouse's behavior of avoiding the reality of the terminal illness and focusing on future plans indicates maladaptive coping. The cheerfulness and denial suggest a lack of acceptance and processing of the impending loss. This can lead to emotional distress and hinder the grieving process. Choice B (Anxiety related to the complicated grieving process) is incorrect because the spouse's behavior does not exhibit signs of anxiety but rather avoidance and denial. Choice C (Caregiver role strain related to feeling overwhelmed) is incorrect as the spouse does not express feeling overwhelmed but instead deflects by focusing on work. Choice D (Hopelessness related to knowledge deficit about cancer) is incorrect because the spouse's behavior does not indicate hopelessness or lack of understanding about cancer, but rather an avoidance of facing the reality of the situation.
Question 2 of 5
A hospice patient with end-stage renal disease refuses to eat or drink and is very weak but reports no pain. Which nursing action is most appropriate?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The most appropriate nursing action in this scenario is choice C: Provide support for the patient’s decision and ensure comfort measures. This is because the patient is in hospice care, indicating a focus on comfort and quality of life rather than aggressive treatments. By respecting the patient’s decision and providing comfort measures, the nurse promotes dignity and autonomy. Choices A and B are not suitable as they go against the patient's wishes and may cause distress. Choice D, while important, is not the immediate priority when the patient is not in pain and has chosen to refuse food and fluids. Overall, choice C aligns with the principles of hospice care and prioritizes the patient's comfort and autonomy.
Question 3 of 5
The nurse is counseling a family about end-of-life care for their loved one. Which statement by the family indicates understanding of palliative care?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A because palliative care indeed focuses on providing relief from pain and other symptoms, enhancing quality of life for patients with serious illnesses. This aligns with the essence of palliative care, which is to provide holistic support to improve comfort and well-being. The other choices are incorrect: B is wrong because palliative care does not aim to cure the underlying disease but rather to alleviate suffering; C is incorrect as palliative care can be initiated earlier in the disease trajectory, not just during the final days; and D is inaccurate because patients can continue receiving treatments alongside palliative care to manage symptoms and improve their quality of life.
Question 4 of 5
The emergency department (ED) nurse is initiating therapeutic hypothermia in a patient who has been resuscitated after a cardiac arrest. Which actions in the hypothermia protocol can be delegated to an experienced licensed practical/vocational nurse (LPN/LVN) (select all that apply)?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Correct Answer: D - Give acetaminophen (Tylenol) 650 mg per nasogastric tube. Rationale: LPNs/LVNs are trained to administer medications, including oral and nasogastric routes. Giving acetaminophen via nasogastric tube is within their scope of practice. LPNs/LVNs should have the knowledge and skills to safely administer this medication as part of the hypothermia protocol. Summary of other choices: A: Continuously monitor heart rhythm - This requires specialized training and skills typically within the scope of registered nurses or cardiac monitoring technicians. B: Check neurologic status every 2 hours - Assessing neurologic status requires critical thinking and clinical judgment, which are typically responsibilities of registered nurses. C: Place cooling blankets above and below the patient - Positioning and managing cooling devices may require specific training and should be done under the supervision of a registered nurse.
Question 5 of 5
Which action by the nurse demonstrates cultural sensitivity in end-of-life care?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C because inquiring about specific cultural rituals and preferences shows respect for the patient's cultural beliefs and values. By asking about these aspects, the nurse can provide care that aligns with the patient's cultural background, promoting comfort and understanding. This action also demonstrates a commitment to individualized care. Choice A is incorrect because standardized care may not always be culturally appropriate. Choice B is incorrect as avoiding discussions about death can hinder effective communication and support. Choice D is incorrect as advising families to strictly follow hospital guidelines may overlook the importance of cultural considerations in end-of-life care.