Critical Care Nursing NCLEX Questions Related

Review Critical Care Nursing NCLEX Questions related questions and content

The charge nurse has a Vigileo pulse contour cardiac output monitoring system available for use in the surgical intensive care unit. For which patient isa buisrbe.c oomf /ttehsits device most appropriate?

  • A. A patient with a history of aortic insufficiency admitte d with a postoperative myocardial infarction
  • B. A mechanically ventilated patient with cardiogenic sho ck being treated with an intraaortic balloon pump
  • C. A patient with a history of atrial fibrillation having frequent episodes of paroxysmal supraventricular tachycardia
  • D. A mechanically ventilated patient admitted following repair of an acute bowel obstruction
Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B because a mechanically ventilated patient with cardiogenic shock being treated with an intra-aortic balloon pump would benefit most from having a Vigileo pulse contour cardiac output monitoring system. This device provides continuous cardiac output monitoring and can help guide hemodynamic management in critically ill patients, especially those with hemodynamic instability like cardiogenic shock. It allows for real-time adjustments of fluid and vasoactive medications to optimize cardiac output and tissue perfusion.

Choice A is incorrect because a patient with a history of aortic insufficiency and postoperative myocardial infarction may not require continuous cardiac output monitoring like the patient in choice B. Choice C is incorrect as the patient with atrial fibrillation and paroxysmal supraventricular tachycardia does not necessarily need cardiac output monitoring. Choice D is also incorrect as a mechanically ventilated patient following repair of an acute bowel obstruction may not require continuous cardiac output monitoring unless there are specific complications.