Critical Care Exam 1 Questions from Study guide

What are two major organizations that support critical care nursing?

American Association of Critical Care Nurses (AACN) and Society of Critical Care Medicine (SCCM).

What does a GCS score of 8 or less typically indicate?

The need for intubation to protect the airway.

What is Cushing’s Triad, and what does it indicate?

Bradycardia, hypertension, and irregular respirations—signs of increased intracranial pressure (ICP).

What is the difference between the primary and secondary survey in emergency assessment?

Primary survey identifies life-threatening issues using ABCDEFG; secondary survey gathers detailed history and head-to-toe exam.

What are signs of poor circulation in a client?

Cool, clammy skin, delayed cap refill, hypotension, and tachycardia.

What is the purpose of a TELE ICU?

To provide remote critical care support and reduce mortality in areas with limited resources.

Name three situations that would require a 1:1 nurse-patient ratio.

Cardiac arrest with artic sun therapy, CRRT, and active hemorrhaging.

What are UAPs not allowed to do in delegation?

Assess, diagnose, plan, educate, and evaluate (ADPIE).

What is the purpose of early warning scores (EWS)?

To alert nurses of early signs of patient deterioration using data from the EHR.

Name two pieces of equipment that may require ICU admission.

Mechanical ventilators and vasopressor drips.

What are the early symptoms of Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS)?

Weak, rubbery legs that lead to ascending paralysis.

What is the primary treatment for Myasthenia Gravis (MG)?

Anticholinesterase meds like pyridostigmine and immunosuppressants.

What medications reduce ICP and what are their side effects?

Mannitol (hypokalemia), furosemide (ototoxicity), corticosteroids (Cushing's syndrome), and barbiturates (respiratory depression).

What defines status epilepticus?

Seizure lasting >30 minutes or multiple seizures without full recovery between.

What is the first-line medication for treating status epilepticus?

Benzodiazepines like diazepam, lorazepam, or midazola