Exam 2: Care of the Critically Ill Patient

A patient being mechanically ventilated receives midazolam (Versed) for sedation. What findings indicate to the nurse that the patient is receiving an appropriate dose of this medication?

Which nursing action would be appropriate when the nurse initiates an infusion of morphine sulfate for a post-operative patient who is experiencing pain?

Which statement describing the needs of family members of critically ill patients has yet to be validated by research?

The nurse confirms medication orders and the schedule to administer a sedative to a patient with delirium. Which dosing schedule maximizes the effectiveness of the drugs?

The charge nurse reviews information about patients received during morning report. Which patient is at risk for nutritional imbalances? Select all that apply.

The nurse inserts a nasogastric tube and plans to confirm placement of the tube prior to starting enteral feedings. Which is the most accurate method for confirming tube placement?

The nurse is a member of a committee that is designing improvements to the critical care waiting areas. What improvements should the nurse suggest to enhance the comfort of family members of critical care patients? Select all that apply.

Which nursing diagnosis should receive the highest priority when caring for a patient who is receiving total parenteral nutrition?

Which parameter indicates that a patient in the intensive care unit being mechanically ventilated is ready for an interruption in sedation? Select all that apply.

The nurse administers haloperidol (Haldol) via IV push to a patient experiencing delirium. What is most important for the nurse to monitor in this patient?

The nurse cares for a patient recovering from surgery who is being mechanically ventilated and experiencing pain. Which approach should the nurse use first to assess this patient's pain?

A critically ill patient is prescribed enteral feedings to begin after placement of the nasogastric tube is verified. What should the nurse identify as the goal for this method of nutrition?

The nurse assesses the nutritional needs of a patient in the intensive care unit. What information is essential for the nurse to obtain during this assessment? Select all that apply.

Members of the multidisciplinary care team review a patient's nutritional status and analyze assessment values. Which value would need additional investigation?

What should the nurse do to meet the needs of the critically ill patient's family members? Select all that apply.

Which communication strategy should the critical care nurse use when communicating with a ventilated patient?