ATI RN
Critical Care Nursing Questions and Answers PDF Questions
Question 1 of 5
When monitoring the effectiveness of treatment for a patient with a large anterior wall myocardial infarction, the most important information for the nurse to obtain is:
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D: Pulmonary artery wedge pressure (PAWP). This is crucial in monitoring a patient with a large anterior wall myocardial infarction as it provides information on left ventricular function and fluid status. A high PAWP may indicate left ventricular failure or fluid overload, requiring immediate intervention. A: Central venous pressure (CVP) is not as specific for assessing left ventricular function and may not provide accurate information in this scenario. B: Systemic vascular resistance (SVR) is important in assessing systemic blood flow, but it may not directly indicate left ventricular function in this case. C: Pulmonary vascular resistance (PVR) is more relevant in conditions affecting the pulmonary circulation and may not be as immediately informative in assessing left ventricular function in this context.
Question 2 of 5
The nurse is caring for a very seriously ill patient in the CCU. The family visits sporadically, stays for only a short time, and does not ask many questions. How could the nurse best begin to involve the family in the patients care?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D: Ask the family to complete the Critical Care Family Needs Inventory. This tool helps assess the family's needs and concerns, enabling the nurse to tailor care accordingly. By understanding the family's specific needs, the nurse can provide appropriate support and information, fostering better involvement and understanding. A: Asking one family member to assist with the patient's bath may not address the overall family's needs or involvement in care. B: Encouraging family members to stay longer does not necessarily address their specific needs or facilitate effective communication. C: Focusing solely on the legal next of kin may exclude important family members who also need support and involvement in the patient's care.
Question 3 of 5
The nurse is assigned to care for a patient who is a non-na tive English speaker. What is the best way to communicate with the patient and family to provide updates and explain procedures?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Contact the hospital’s interpreter service for someone to translate. This is the best option as it ensures accurate communication between the nurse, patient, and family. Hospital interpreters are trained professionals who can accurately convey medical information, ensuring understanding and informed decision-making. Using Google search (A) may result in inaccurate information and is not reliable for medical communication. Asking a resident (C) who is fluent may not guarantee accuracy in medical terminology. Using a young family member (D) as a translator can lead to miscommunication due to potential language barriers or lack of medical knowledge. Overall, option B is the most appropriate and ethical choice for effective communication in a healthcare setting.
Question 4 of 5
A client with osteoarthritis is given a new prescription for a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). The client asks the nurse, 'How is this medication different from the acetaminophen I have been taking?' Which information about the therapeutic action of NSAIDs should the nurse provide?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Provide anti-inflammatory response. NSAIDs work by inhibiting the enzyme cyclooxygenase, thereby reducing inflammation, pain, and fever. This is different from acetaminophen, which primarily acts as a pain reliever and fever reducer but lacks significant anti-inflammatory properties. Explanation of why other choices are incorrect: A: Are less expensive - Cost is not related to the therapeutic action of NSAIDs. C: Increase hepatotoxic side effects - While NSAIDs can have adverse effects on the liver, hepatotoxicity is not a primary therapeutic action of these drugs. D: Cause gastrointestinal bleeding - While NSAIDs can increase the risk of gastrointestinal bleeding, this is a potential side effect rather than the primary therapeutic action.
Question 5 of 5
The nurse is concerned about the risk of alcohol withdraw al syndrome in a 45-year-old postoperative patient. Which statement indicates an unders tanding of management of this patient?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D because initiating the alcohol withdrawal protocol shows an understanding of managing a patient at risk for alcohol withdrawal syndrome. This protocol involves carefully monitoring the patient's symptoms, providing appropriate medications, and ensuring a safe environment. Option A is incorrect as it downplays the seriousness of alcohol withdrawal. Option B is incorrect as there are assessment tools available for identifying alcohol withdrawal. Option C is incorrect as pain management should be tailored to the individual's needs, not necessarily lessened due to alcohol withdrawal risk.