ATI RN
Critical Care Nursing Practice Questions Questions
Question 1 of 5
When assessing an older patient admitted to the emergency department (ED) with a broken arm and facial bruises, the nurse observes several additional bruises in various stages of healing. Which statement or question by the nurse is most appropriate?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: "Do you feel safe in your home?" This question is most appropriate because it directly addresses the potential issue of elder abuse without assuming or accusing the patient. It allows the patient to disclose any safety concerns and initiates a conversation about their well-being. Options B and D are inappropriate as they are accusatory and may escalate the situation. Option C is not as direct and may not effectively address the safety concerns of the patient.
Question 2 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.
Question 3 of 5
Which patient should the nurse refer for hospice care?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C because the patient with AIDS-related dementia requires palliative care and pain management, which are key components of hospice care. This patient is likely in the terminal stage of their illness and would benefit from the comprehensive support provided by hospice services. Choice A is incorrect because the patient's children's inability to discuss dying issues does not necessarily indicate a need for hospice care. Choice B is incorrect as chronic severe pain due to spinal arthritis is not a sole criterion for hospice referral. Choice D is incorrect as advanced liver failure alone does not automatically qualify a patient for hospice care.
Question 4 of 5
The nurse is educating a group of nursing students about end-of-life care. Which statement by a student indicates the need for further teaching?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C because maintaining hydration and nutrition until the patient dies is not always appropriate in end-of-life care, as some patients may be unable to tolerate oral intake or may be close to the end of life where artificial nutrition and hydration may not provide benefit and may even cause discomfort. Explanation: A: A is correct because terminally ill patients may indeed benefit from continuous pain management to ensure comfort. B: B is correct because hospice care is typically initiated when curative treatment is no longer effective and focuses on providing comfort and quality of life. D: D is correct because emotional support is crucial in end-of-life care to address the patient's psychological well-being and provide comfort. In summary, choice C is incorrect as it does not consider individual patient needs and preferences in end-of-life care.
Question 5 of 5
Family members are in the patient’s room when the patient has a cardiac arrest and the staff starts resuscitation measures. Which action should the nurse take next?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C because it involves patient-centered care and respects the family's preferences. By asking the family members whether they would prefer to remain in the patient's room or wait outside, the nurse acknowledges their needs and allows them to make an informed decision based on their comfort level. This empowers the family members and promotes a supportive environment during a stressful situation. Choice A is incorrect because it assumes that keeping the family in the room without their input is the best approach, which may not be the case for all families. Choice B is incorrect because asking the family to wait outside without considering their preferences may not be the most supportive action. Choice D is incorrect because it makes a blanket statement about patient comfort without considering individual family dynamics and preferences.