ATI RN
Critical Care Nursing NCLEX Questions Questions
Question 1 of 5
Which of the following devices is best suited to deliver 65 % oxygen to a patient who is spontaneously breathing?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The Venturi mask is the best choice for delivering 65% oxygen because it allows precise oxygen concentration delivery through adjustable venturi valves. This device ensures consistent oxygen levels even during variations in patient breathing patterns. Face mask with non-rebreathing reservoir (A) delivers higher oxygen concentrations, low-flow nasal cannula (B) is not suitable for precise oxygen delivery, and simple face mask (C) may not provide the desired oxygen concentration.
Question 2 of 5
A 53-year-old, 80-kg patient is admitted to the cardiac sur gical intensive care unit after cardiac surgery with the following arterial blood gas (ABG ) levels. What is the nurse’s interpretation of these values? pH 7.4 PaCO 40 mm Hg Bicarbonate 24 mEq/L PaO 95 mm Hg O saturation 97% Respirations 20 breaths per minute
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct interpretation is C: Normal ABG values. 1. pH is within the normal range of 7.35-7.45. 2. PaCO2 is 40 mm Hg, within the normal range of 35-45 mm Hg. 3. Bicarbonate is 24 mEq/L, within the normal range of 22-26 mEq/L. 4. PaO2 is 95 mm Hg, within the normal range of 80-100 mm Hg. 5. Oxygen saturation is 97%, which is normal. 6. Respirations are also within the normal range at 20 breaths per minute. Overall, all values fall within the normal range, indicating a well-maintained acid-base balance. Other choices are incorrect because there are no abnormalities that would suggest compensated metabolic acidosis, metabolic alkalosis, or respiratory acidosis based on the given ABG values.
Question 3 of 5
The nurse is caring for a mechanically ventilated patient. T he primary care providers are considering performing a tracheostomy because the patienatb iirsb .hcoamv/itensgt difficulty weaning from mechanical ventilation. Related to tracheostomy, the nurse understands which of the following?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: Procedures performed in the operating room are associated with fewer complications. This is because performing a tracheostomy in the operating room allows for better control of the environment, equipment, and expertise of the surgical team. In this setting, the risk of complications such as bleeding, infection, and injury to surrounding structures is minimized. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect: A: Patient outcomes are better if the tracheostomy is done within a week of intubation - This statement is not universally true and depends on individual patient factors. Timing of tracheostomy should be based on the patient's clinical condition and not a set timeline. B: Percutaneous tracheostomy can be done safely at the bedside by the respiratory therapist - While percutaneous tracheostomy can be performed at the bedside, it is typically done by a trained physician or surgeon due to the potential risks and complications involved. D: The greatest risk after a per
Question 4 of 5
The nurse is assisting with endotracheal intubation of the p atient and recognizes that the procedure will be done in what order? (Put a comma and s pace between each answer choice.)
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D. The first step in endotracheal intubation is to insert the endotracheal tube with a laryngoscope and blade to visualize the vocal cords and guide the tube into the trachea. This ensures proper placement of the tube for effective ventilation. Assessing the balloon symmetry (Choice A) and lung fields (Choice B) would come after the tube is successfully inserted. Inflating the balloon of the endotracheal tube (Choice C) should be the last step to secure the tube in place.
Question 5 of 5
In assessing a patient, the nurse understands that what sym ptomology is an early sign of hypoxemia?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Step 1: Restlessness is an early sign of hypoxemia due to the body's response to low oxygen levels. Step 2: Restlessness occurs as the body tries to increase oxygen intake. Step 3: Other choices are incorrect because clubbing and cyanosis are late signs, while hypotension is not a specific early sign of hypoxemia.