When evaluating a patient with a central venous catheter, the nurse observes that the insertion site is red and tender to touch and the patient’s temperature is 101.8°F. What should the nurse plan to do next?
- A. Give analgesics and antibiotics as ordered.
- B. Discontinue the catheter and culture the tip.
- C. Change the flush system and monitor the site.
- D. Check the site more frequently for any swelling.
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Discontinue the catheter and culture the tip. The patient's symptoms indicate a possible catheter-related infection. Discontinuing the catheter will prevent further infection spread. Culturing the tip will identify the specific pathogen causing the infection, guiding appropriate antibiotic therapy. Choice A is incorrect because giving analgesics alone will not address the underlying infection. Choice C is incorrect as changing the flush system is not a priority when infection is suspected. Choice D is incorrect as checking the site more frequently does not address the need for immediate action to address the infection.
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Upon entering the room of a patient with a right radial arte rial line, the nurse assesses the waveform to be slightly dampened and notices blood to bea bbirabc.ckoemd/te ustp into the pressure tubing. What is the best action by the nurse?
- A. Check the inflation volume of the flush system pressur e bag.
- B. Disconnect the flush system from the arterial line catheter.
- C. Zero reference the transducer system at the phlebostati c axis. WWWWWW ..TTHHEENNUURRSSIINNGGMMAASSTTEERRYY..CCOOMM
- D. Reduce the number of stopcocks in the flush system tubing.
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Disconnect the flush system from the arterial line catheter. This action is necessary to prevent air from entering the patient's bloodstream, which can lead to air embolism. By disconnecting the flush system, the nurse stops the flow of air and ensures patient safety. Checking the inflation volume of the pressurized bag (A) is not the immediate concern in this situation. Zero referencing the transducer system (C) is unrelated to the issue of air entering the arterial line. Reducing the number of stopcocks in the flush system tubing (D) does not address the immediate risk of air embolism.
Which of the following devices is best suited to deliver 65 % oxygen to a patient who is spontaneously breathing?
- A. Face mask with non-rebreathing reservoir
- B. Low-flow nasal cannula
- C. Simple face mask
- D. Venturi mask
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.
The assessment of pain and anxiety is a continuous proces s. When critically ill patients exhibit signs of anxiety, what is the nurse’s first priority?
- A. To administer antianxiety medications as ordered
- B. To administer pain medication as ordered
- C. To identify and treat the underlying cause
- D. To reassess the patient hourly to determine whether symptoms resolve on their own
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: To identify and treat the underlying cause. The first priority of the nurse when critically ill patients exhibit signs of anxiety is to determine the root cause of the anxiety. By identifying and addressing the underlying cause, the nurse can effectively manage the patient's anxiety and prevent further complications. Administering medications without understanding the cause can mask the symptoms and lead to ineffective treatment. Reassessing the patient hourly may not address the root cause and could delay appropriate intervention. Pain medication may not be necessary if the anxiety is not related to pain. Treating the underlying cause ensures holistic and effective care for the patient.
Which statement is true regarding the impact of culture on end-of-life decision making?
- A. African-Americans prefer more conservative, less invaasbiirvbe.c ocma/rtees to ptions during the end of life.
- B. Caucasians prefer aggressive and more invasive care options during the end of life.
- C. Culture and religious beliefs may affect end-of-life decision making.
- D. Perspectives regarding end-of-life care are similar betwabeirebn.c oamn/dte swt ithin religious groups.
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Rationale:
1. Culture and religious beliefs can significantly impact end-of-life decision making by influencing values, beliefs, and preferences.
2. These factors may affect choices related to treatment options, quality of life, and spiritual aspects.
3. Different cultural backgrounds may lead to varying perspectives on autonomy, family involvement, and medical interventions.
4. Option A and B make generalizations based on race, which is not accurate as preferences can vary widely within any racial group.
5. Option D is incorrect as perspectives on end-of-life care can vary even within the same religious group due to individual beliefs and interpretations.
Which intervention about visitation in the critical care unit is true?
- A. The majority of critical care nurses implement restricte d visiting hours to allow the patient to rest.
- B. Children should never be permitted to visit a critically ill family member.
- C. Visitation that is individualized to the needs of patients and family members is ideal.
- D. Visiting hours should always be unrestricted.
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C because individualized visitation meets the unique needs of patients and family members, promoting holistic care and emotional support. Choice A is incorrect as strictly restricted visiting hours may hinder family involvement in care. Choice B is incorrect as children can provide comfort and support. Choice D is incorrect as unrestricted visiting may disrupt patient rest and care routines.