The development of Multiple Organ Dysfunction Syndrome is confirmed in a patient who manifests:
Respiratory rate of 45/min, a PaCO2 of 60, and a chest x-ray with bilateral diffuse patchy infiltrates.
An elevated serum amylase and lipase, a serum creatinine of 3.8 mg/dl, and a platelet count of 15,000.
A urine output of 30 ml/hr, a BUN of 65 mg/dl, and a WBC of 1120.
Upper GI bleeding and a Hct of 25
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A rationale
This choice describes acute respiratory failure and potential acute respiratory distress syndrome. While respiratory failure is a common component of multiple organ dysfunction syndrome, the diagnostic criteria for the syndrome itself specifically require the simultaneous or sequential failure of two or more distinct organ systems. A respiratory rate of 45/min and arterial carbon dioxide of 60 mmHg indicate severe ventilatory compromise, but this alone does not confirm the involvement of other critical biological systems.
Choice B rationale
This option confirms the failure of multiple distinct organ systems, meeting the diagnostic threshold for the syndrome. Elevated serum amylase and lipase levels indicate pancreatic dysfunction or injury. A serum creatinine of 3.8 mg/dl (normal range 0.7 to 1.3 mg/dl) signifies acute renal failure. Furthermore, a platelet count of 15,000 (normal range 150,000 to 450,000) indicates severe hematological failure or disseminated intravascular coagulation. The involvement of the renal, hematologic, and pancreatic systems validates the diagnosis.
Choice C rationale
This scenario shows potential renal and hematologic issues but does not reach the definitive threshold of multi-system collapse described in Choice B. A urine output of 30 ml/hr is at the lower limit of normal (minimum 0.5 ml/kg/hr or 30 ml/hr). A blood urea nitrogen of 65 mg/dl (normal range 7 to 20 mg/dl) and a white blood cell count of 1,120 (normal range 4,500 to 11,000) reflect illness but are less comprehensive indicators.
Choice D rationale
Gastrointestinal bleeding and a hematocrit of 25 (normal range 41 to 50 percent for men) represent a single system failure, specifically the gastrointestinal or hematological system. While severe, isolated bleeding and anemia do not provide evidence of the widespread, multi-organ metabolic and physiological collapse required to confirm a diagnosis of multiple organ dysfunction syndrome. This condition requires evidence of failure in at least two separate organs to be classified as such by clinical standards.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Thrombolytic agents are typically administered intravenously in the early stages of a myocardial infarction to dissolve existing clots. While angiography identifies the location of an obstruction, the primary purpose of a percutaneous coronary intervention is mechanical revascularization rather than pharmacological lysis. Thrombolytics carry a high risk of systemic bleeding, whereas PCI focuses on physical restoration of blood flow through stenting or balloon angioplasty directly at the site of the identified lesion.
Choice B rationale
Structural defects in the heart chambers, such as septal holes or valvular dysfunction, are primarily evaluated using echocardiography or transesophageal ultrasound. These non-invasive imaging techniques provide detailed views of myocardial wall motion and chamber integrity. While angiography can show some chamber volume, its specific clinical indication is the assessment of the coronary arterial tree. PCI is not used to repair structural chamber defects, which usually require surgical intervention or specialized percutaneous closures.
Choice C rationale
Coronary angiography uses radiopaque contrast dye to visualize the internal lumen of the coronary arteries, identifying specific areas of narrowing or complete blockage. Once an obstruction is found, percutaneous coronary intervention involves the use of a balloon-tipped catheter to physically dilate the vessel. This process, often followed by stent placement, restores oxygenated blood flow to the myocardium. It is the gold standard for treating acute coronary syndromes and chronic stable angina involving significant stenosis.
Choice D rationale
The measurement of blood pumped with each contraction, known as the ejection fraction, is generally assessed via echocardiography or multigated acquisition scans. While a ventriculogram performed during cardiac catheterization can estimate this volume, it is not the primary purpose of a scheduled angiography and PCI. The goal of the procedure described is therapeutic intervention for arterial disease. Normal ejection fraction ranges from 55.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Facial burns involve complex airway management and specialized wound care that exceeds the typical scope of a medical unit nurse. Partial-thickness burns to the face require frequent assessment for edema, which can cause respiratory compromise. Debridement in this sensitive area involves meticulous technique to prevent infection and scarring. A float nurse lacks the specific burn-unit training required to manage these high-risk interventions and the associated pain management protocols effectively.
Choice B rationale
Cultured epithelial autografts are extremely fragile and expensive skin substitutes that require specialized nursing knowledge for successful engraftment. These grafts consist of thin layers of cells that can be easily dislodged or damaged by improper positioning or dressing contact. Nurses in a burn unit receive specific training on how to monitor these grafts for adherence and signs of rejection. A medical unit nurse would not be familiar with these critical post-operative protocols.
Choice C rationale
Bleb aspiration under an autograft is a delicate procedure that requires specific expertise to ensure the graft remains viable and attached to the wound bed. Fluid accumulation or blebs can prevent revascularization of the transplanted skin, leading to graft failure. This task is typically performed by experienced burn clinicians who understand the anatomy of skin grafting. Entrusting this to a float nurse would pose a significant risk to the patient's surgical outcome and recovery.
Choice D rationale
Weight loss is a common physiological response to the hypermetabolic state induced by major thermal injuries, but it is a condition that medical-surgical nurses are well-equipped to manage. Monitoring nutritional intake, administering supplements, and tracking daily weights are core competencies for any registered nurse. Since this patient is stable and the primary issue is metabolic support rather than acute burn wound or graft management, it is the most appropriate assignment for a float nurse.
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