Critical Care Nursing Questions and Answers PDF Related

Review Critical Care Nursing Questions and Answers PDF related questions and content

A patient is having difficulty weaning from mechanical ve ntilation. The nurse assesses the patient and notes what potential cause of this difficult weaning?

  • A. Cardiac output of 6 L/min
  • B. Hemoglobin of 8 g/dL
  • C. Negative sputum culture and sensitivity
  • D. White blood cell count of 8000
Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Hemoglobin of 8 g/dL. Low hemoglobin levels can lead to inadequate oxygen delivery to tissues, causing respiratory distress and difficulty weaning from mechanical ventilation. This is due to reduced oxygen-carrying capacity leading to increased work of breathing.

A: Cardiac output of 6 L/min is within normal range and not directly related to difficulty weaning from mechanical ventilation.
C: Negative sputum culture and sensitivity indicate absence of respiratory infection but not a direct cause of difficulty weaning.
D: White blood cell count of 8000 is within normal range and not a direct cause of difficulty weaning.