Acute Respiratory Dysfunction

Question 1 A patient with acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) presents with severe hypoxemia. Which intervention is the priority? • A) Administer bronchodilators • B) Provide supplemental oxygen • C) Position the patient in a high Fowler’s position • D) Initiate mechanical ventilation Answer: D) Initiate mechanical ventilation Rationale: In ARDS, severe hypoxemia often necessitates mechanical ventilation to ensure adequate oxygenation and prevent respiratory failure. ________________________________________ Question 2 Which of the following is the most common cause of acute respiratory failure? • A) Asthma • B) Pneumonia • C) Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) • D) Pulmonary embolism Answer: B) Pneumonia Rationale: Pneumonia is a leading cause of acute respiratory failure, particularly in patients with preexisting health issues. ________________________________________ Question 3 The nurse is assessing a patient with pneumonia. Which finding would indicate a worsening condition? • A) Increased respiratory rate • B) Dullness to percussion • C) Decreased oxygen saturation • D) All of the above Answer: D) All of the above Rationale: Each of these findings can indicate deterioration in a patient with pneumonia, including potential respiratory failure. ________________________________________ Question 4 In ARDS, what is the primary cause of increased pulmonary capillary permeability? • A) Fluid overload • B) Infection • C) Inflammatory response • D) Airway obstruction Answer: C) Inflammatory response Rationale: ARDS is characterized by an inflammatory response that increases the permeability of the pulmonary capillaries, leading to fluid accumulation in the alveoli. ________________________________________ Question 5 Which of the following assessment findings is most consistent with a patient experiencing a pulmonary embolism? • A) Bradycardia • B) Hypotension • C) Sudden onset of pleuritic chest pain • D) Productive cough Answer: C) Sudden onset of pleuritic chest pain Rationale: Pulmonary embolism typically presents with sudden pleuritic chest pain and is often associated with other symptoms such as shortness of breath. ________________________________________ Question 6 A patient with COPD is experiencing an acute exacerbation. What should the nurse prioritize in the plan of care? • A) Administer corticosteroids • B) Promote fluid intake • C) Encourage deep breathing exercises • D) Administer antibiotics Answer: A) Administer corticosteroids Rationale: Corticosteroids are critical in managing exacerbations of COPD by reducing inflammation and improving airflow. ________________________________________ Question 7 The nurse is caring for a patient with acute respiratory failure. Which laboratory test result should the nurse monitor closely? • A) Arterial blood gases (ABGs) • B) Complete blood count (CBC) • C) Basic metabolic panel (BMP) • D) Coagulation profile Answer: A) Arterial blood gases (ABGs) Rationale: Monitoring ABGs is essential in assessing respiratory function and the effectiveness of interventions in acute respiratory failure. ________________________________________ Question 8 Which of the following indicates the need for endotracheal intubation in a patient with respiratory distress? • A) Oxygen saturation of 90% • B) Respiratory rate of 22 breaths per minute • C) Increased work of breathing with accessory muscle use • D) Normal lung sounds Answer: C) Increased work of breathing with accessory muscle use Rationale: Increased work of breathing, especially with accessory muscle use, suggests that the patient is struggling to maintain adequate ventilation and may need intubation. ________________________________________ Question 9 A patient diagnosed with ARDS is placed on mechanical ventilation. Which mode of ventilation is most appropriate initially? • A) Pressure support ventilation (PSV) • B) Assist-control (A/C) • C) Synchronized intermittent mandatory ventilation (SIMV) • D) Continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) Answer: B) Assist-control (A/C) Rationale: Assist-control mode allows for controlled ventilation with the ability to respond to the patient's efforts, providing support during severe respiratory distress. ________________________________________ Question 10 What is the primary goal of nursing management for a patient with acute respiratory failure? • A) Promote effective airway clearance • B) Maintain adequate oxygenation • C) Prevent pulmonary infections • D) Reduce anxiety Answer: B) Maintain adequate oxygenation Rationale: The primary goal in acute respiratory failure is to maintain adequate oxygenation and prevent hypoxia.