#1
Which of the following is NOT a common complication associated with mechanical ventilation?
Hyperkalemia
ExplanationNot typically associated; more common complications include barotrauma and ventilator-associated pneumonia.
#2
What is the primary purpose of arterial blood gas (ABG) analysis in critical care?
To evaluate acid-base balance and oxygenation status
ExplanationABG provides crucial information about respiratory function, acid-base status, and oxygen delivery.
#3
Which electrolyte imbalance is commonly associated with the use of loop diuretics?
Hypokalemia
ExplanationLoop diuretics like furosemide can cause potassium loss, leading to hypokalemia.
#4
Which of the following is a hallmark sign of septic shock?
Hypotension
ExplanationSeptic shock often presents with refractory hypotension despite fluid resuscitation.
#5
Which of the following is NOT a common side effect of opioid analgesics?
Hypotension
ExplanationCommon side effects include respiratory depression, sedation, and constipation.
#6
What is the primary goal of nutritional support in critically ill patients?
To meet metabolic demands and prevent malnutrition
ExplanationNutritional support aims to provide adequate calories and nutrients to support recovery.
#7
Which medication is commonly administered to reduce intracranial pressure (ICP) in traumatic brain injury patients?
Mannitol
ExplanationMannitol is an osmotic diuretic used to decrease ICP by reducing cerebral edema.
#8
What is the primary goal of sedation in mechanically ventilated patients?
To promote comfort and synchrony with the ventilator
ExplanationSedation aims to keep patients comfortable, reduce anxiety, and improve synchrony with the ventilator.
#9
What is the primary purpose of administering vasopressors in septic shock?
To increase blood pressure
ExplanationVasopressors like norepinephrine are used to raise blood pressure in septic shock.
#10
Which of the following is a complication of prolonged immobility in critically ill patients?
Venous thromboembolism
ExplanationProlonged immobility increases the risk of blood clots, especially in the legs.
#11
Which of the following is a common complication of acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS)?
Hypoxemia
ExplanationARDS results in severe hypoxemia due to alveolar damage and decreased lung compliance.
#12
Which medication is commonly used as a first-line treatment for status epilepticus?
Lorazepam
ExplanationLorazepam, a benzodiazepine, is often used initially to halt seizures in status epilepticus.
#13
Which assessment finding is indicative of a tension pneumothorax?
Hypotension
ExplanationTension pneumothorax can lead to hypotension due to decreased venous return to the heart.
#14
What is the purpose of performing a neurological assessment in critical care patients?
To monitor neurological status and detect changes
ExplanationAssessing neurological function helps in detecting neurological deterioration or improvement.
#15
What is the primary purpose of prone positioning in ARDS management?
To improve oxygenation
ExplanationProne positioning helps recruit more lung tissue and improve oxygen exchange.
#16
What is the primary purpose of using neuromuscular blockade in mechanical ventilation?
To facilitate ventilator synchrony and improve oxygenation
ExplanationNeuromuscular blockade can prevent patient-ventilator dyssynchrony and improve oxygenation.
#17
What is the primary purpose of therapeutic hypothermia in post-cardiac arrest care?
To decrease metabolic demand and protect neurological function
ExplanationHypothermia after cardiac arrest reduces brain injury and improves neurological outcomes.