Exam Preparation for Progressive Care RN A with Verified Responses

1. A patient with end-stage renal disease reports severe itching. What
intervention is most appropriate?
A. Administer prescribed antihistamines.
B. Encourage increased water intake.
C. Monitor phosphorus levels.
D. Apply emollients to the skin.
Answer and Rationale:
C. Monitor phosphorus levels.
Rationale: Severe itching in renal patients is often due to
hyperphosphatemia. Addressing the cause is more effective than
symptom management alone.


2. A patient on a ventilator has a high-pressure alarm sounding. What
is the nurse’s first action?
A. Check the tubing for kinks or obstructions.
B. Silence the alarm and monitor the patient.
C. Notify the respiratory therapist.
D. Decrease the ventilator settings.
Answer and Rationale:
A. Check the tubing for kinks or obstructions.

,Rationale: High-pressure alarms often indicate obstructions in the
circuit, which should be assessed first.


3. A patient has a central venous catheter and reports sudden shortness
of breath. The nurse notices decreased oxygen saturation and
hypotension. What is the priority intervention?
A. Administer a prescribed diuretic.
B. Position the patient on their left side with the head down.
C. Notify the healthcare provider immediately.
D. Remove the central venous catheter.
Answer and Rationale:
B. Position the patient on their left side with the head down.
Rationale: This position traps air in the right atrium, minimizing the
risk of air embolism traveling to the lungs or brain.


4. A patient receiving furosemide complains of muscle cramps. Which
lab value should the nurse assess?
A. Sodium
B. Calcium
C. Potassium
D. Magnesium
Answer and Rationale:
C. Potassium

, Rationale: Hypokalemia is a common side effect of furosemide and can
cause muscle cramps.


5. A patient with a history of heart failure reports palpitations and
dizziness. The ECG shows frequent premature ventricular contractions
(PVCs). What is the nurse’s priority?
A. Administer an antiarrhythmic as prescribed.
B. Assess potassium and magnesium levels.
C. Notify the healthcare provider.
D. Monitor the frequency of PVCs.
Answer and Rationale:
B. Assess potassium and magnesium levels.
Rationale: Electrolyte imbalances often cause PVCs, so addressing
these imbalances is essential.


6. A patient develops ventricular tachycardia on the monitor. What is
the nurse’s first action?
A. Administer amiodarone IV as prescribed.
B. Assess the patient’s pulse and consciousness.
C. Prepare for defibrillation.
D. Notify the healthcare provider immediately.
Answer and Rationale:
B. Assess the patient’s pulse and consciousness.