A patient in the ICU following a motor vehicle accident has been intubated for 72 hours. Over the previous 12 hours, the patient’s oxygen requirement has increased, tidal volumes have decreased, and the patient’s endotracheal secretions have increased in quantity, thickness, and the color has changed from cloudy to green. The patient’s lab values are significant for a worsening respiratory acidosis and leukocytosis. Which diagnosis is most appropriate for this patient?

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Additional Physiological Adaptation Questions

The 20-year-old healthy soccer player is brought to the emergency department after collapsing at the end of a summer soccer game. The patient is lethargic and confused about the event. Upon assessment, the nurse notes flushed, dry skin that is warm to the touch. The oral mucosa is dry, as well. Vitals are as follows: temperature 40.7°C, heart rate 122 bpm, respiratory rate 20, and blood pressure 116/64 mmHg. A rectal thermistor is inserted and aggressive cooling measures are instituted. After 30 minutes in the ice bath, the patient’s rectal temperature is 39.1°C and the ice is partially melted. Which action by the nurse is most important?  

  • Question Type:   Multiple Choice - Select One
  • Difficulty: 9

The 38-year-old patient who strictly adheres to a vegan diet complains of weakness and tingling in her lower extremities. She retains the strength in her lower extremities but proprioception is decreased.  Her complete blood count reveals a megaloblastic anemia. Which statement by the nurse is most appropriate? 

  • Question Type:   Multiple Choice - Select One
  • Difficulty: 8

The 23-year-old patient is brought to the emergency department after contacting emergency services to report profound weakness that started in his feet and worsened and spread cranially over the past few days. He reports severe diarrhea after a camping trip a week ago. Upon assessment, strength, sensation, and deep tendon reflexes are significantly reduced, with the lower extremities more severely affected than his upper extremities. Vital signs are normal and the patient seems to be breathing well. There is increased protein in the cerebrospinal fluid found after a lumbar puncture. The patient is admitted to the intensive care unit for further management and observation. The ICU nurse includes which interventions in the plan of care? Select all that apply.  

  • Question Type:   Multiple Choice - Select All
  • Difficulty: 10

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