CRITICAL CARE HESI EXAM 2026 COMPLETE
QUESTIONS AND CORRECT ANSWERS 100%
VERIFIED
◉ HESI Hint ARDS Answer: ARDS is an unexpected, catastrophic
pulmonary complication occurring in a person with no previous
pulmonary problems. Clients are critically ill and are managed in an
ICU setting.
Mortality rate is high (50%)
◉ HESI Hint- Interventions to prevent complications on mechanical
ventilation with ARDS Answer: Elevate HOB to at least 30 degrees.
Assist with daily awakening ("sedation vacation").
Implement a comprehensive oral hygiene program.
Implement a comprehensive mobilization program.
◉ Common causes of respiratory failure Answer: 1. Exacerbation of
COPD.
2. Pneumonia.
3. TB.
4. Contusion.
, 5. Aspiration.
6. Inhaled toxins.
7. Emboli.
8. Drug overdose.
9. Fluid overload.
10. DIC.
11. Shock
◉ Nursing Assessment ARDS Answer: A. dyspnea, hyperpnea,
crackles (or rales).
B. Intercostal retractions.
C. cyanosis, pallor
D. Hypoxemia: PO <50 mmHg with FiO2 >60%.
E. Diffuse pulmonary infiltrates seen on chest radiograph as "white-
out" appearance.
F. Verbalized anxiety, restlessness.
◉ Nursing Plans and Interventions ARDS Answer: A. Position client
for maximal lung expansion.
B. Monitor client for signs of hypoxemia and oxygen toxicity.
C. Monitor breath sounds for pneumothorax.
D. Provide emotional support to decrease anxiety and allow
ventilatory to "work" the lungs.
QUESTIONS AND CORRECT ANSWERS 100%
VERIFIED
◉ HESI Hint ARDS Answer: ARDS is an unexpected, catastrophic
pulmonary complication occurring in a person with no previous
pulmonary problems. Clients are critically ill and are managed in an
ICU setting.
Mortality rate is high (50%)
◉ HESI Hint- Interventions to prevent complications on mechanical
ventilation with ARDS Answer: Elevate HOB to at least 30 degrees.
Assist with daily awakening ("sedation vacation").
Implement a comprehensive oral hygiene program.
Implement a comprehensive mobilization program.
◉ Common causes of respiratory failure Answer: 1. Exacerbation of
COPD.
2. Pneumonia.
3. TB.
4. Contusion.
, 5. Aspiration.
6. Inhaled toxins.
7. Emboli.
8. Drug overdose.
9. Fluid overload.
10. DIC.
11. Shock
◉ Nursing Assessment ARDS Answer: A. dyspnea, hyperpnea,
crackles (or rales).
B. Intercostal retractions.
C. cyanosis, pallor
D. Hypoxemia: PO <50 mmHg with FiO2 >60%.
E. Diffuse pulmonary infiltrates seen on chest radiograph as "white-
out" appearance.
F. Verbalized anxiety, restlessness.
◉ Nursing Plans and Interventions ARDS Answer: A. Position client
for maximal lung expansion.
B. Monitor client for signs of hypoxemia and oxygen toxicity.
C. Monitor breath sounds for pneumothorax.
D. Provide emotional support to decrease anxiety and allow
ventilatory to "work" the lungs.
