#1
Which of the following vital signs is NOT typically measured in acute patient care?
Blood Glucose Level
ExplanationNot a vital sign; typically assessed separately in specific contexts.
#2
What is the primary purpose of using the Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) in acute patient assessment?
To measure level of consciousness
ExplanationQuantifies patient's neurological status for rapid assessment.
#3
Which of the following is a priority intervention in managing a patient with severe sepsis or septic shock?
Initiating antibiotic therapy
ExplanationTargets underlying infection to halt progression of sepsis.
#4
Which of the following is a priority nursing intervention for a patient experiencing anaphylaxis?
Administering epinephrine
ExplanationCounteracts systemic vasodilation and bronchoconstriction.
#5
What is the priority action for a nurse when encountering a patient with a compromised airway?
Ensuring a patent airway
ExplanationEnsures oxygenation and prevents further deterioration.
#6
During a cardiac arrest situation, what is the first step in the BLS (Basic Life Support) algorithm?
Check for responsiveness
ExplanationEnsures immediate action if patient is unresponsive.
#7
In acute respiratory distress, which intervention takes precedence?
Administering oxygen
ExplanationCritical to address hypoxemia and support respiratory function.
#8
Which medication is commonly administered to reverse opioid overdose in an acute care setting?
Naloxone
ExplanationAntagonizes opioid receptors, reversing respiratory depression.
#9
In a patient with suspected internal bleeding, which assessment finding is most concerning?
Decreased blood pressure
ExplanationIndicates significant blood loss and potential hypovolemic shock.
#10
Which symptom is commonly associated with diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA)?
Polyuria
ExplanationResults from osmotic diuresis due to hyperglycemia and ketonuria.
#11
What is the most appropriate initial action if a patient exhibits signs of increased intracranial pressure (ICP)?
Elevating the head of the bed
ExplanationReduces intracranial pressure by facilitating venous drainage.
#12
Which laboratory value is most indicative of acute renal failure?
Increased serum creatinine
ExplanationReflects impaired kidney function and decreased glomerular filtration.
#13
What is the primary goal of using mechanical ventilation in acute respiratory failure?
To improve gas exchange
ExplanationAugments oxygenation and CO2 removal to maintain adequate levels.
#14
In acute myocardial infarction (heart attack), which cardiac enzyme is typically elevated within the first few hours?
Myoglobin
ExplanationRises rapidly after myocardial injury, preceding other enzymes.
#15
Which electrolyte abnormality is commonly associated with rhabdomyolysis?
Hyperkalemia
ExplanationReleased potassium from damaged muscle cells can lead to hyperkalemia.