AACN PCCN Exam Review:
Multisystem Question and Answers
Updated 2026
Normal inflammatory response - Answervasodilatation, increased microvascular permeability,
cellular activation and release of mediators, and coagulation
Define sepsis - Answersystemic response to infection, manifested by two or more conditions
resulting from infection (temp >38C, HR >90 bpm, RR >20 bpm, PaCO2 <32 mmHg, WBC >12, <4)
Define septic shock - Answersepsis with hypotension, despite adequate fluid resuscitation, along
with presence of perfusion abnormalities including lactic acidosis, oliguria, acute AMS
Risk factors for sepsis - Answermalnutrition, immunosuppression, prolonged antibiotic use, invasive
devices
Define MODS - Answermultiple organ dysfunction, worsening progression of systemic inflammatory
response (SIRS) involving signs of organ dysfunction
Management of sepsis - Answertreat cause (antibiotics), maximize oxygen, maximize CO (difficult bc
pathological problem of SIRS is increased permeability of capillary bed - liberal fluid admin),
decrease oxygen demand (reduce tachycardia, tachypnea, hyperthermia, pain, prevent shivering,
comfort measures)
What is NOT an accurate measurement of adequate perfusion - AnswerBLOOD PRESSURE, adequate
pressure does not always equal adequate perfusion
Symptoms of alcohol withdrawal - Answerinsomnia, tremors, anxiety, GI upset, HA, sweating,
palpitations, hallucinations, seizures, fever, agitation
How is isopropyl alcohol intoxication distinguished from other types of alcohol intoxication -
Answerpresence of ketoacids in urine and serum
Which imbalance is seen in methanol intoxication and relieved by hyperventilation -
Answermetabolic acidosis (decreased bicarbonate level)
Multisystem Question and Answers
Updated 2026
Normal inflammatory response - Answervasodilatation, increased microvascular permeability,
cellular activation and release of mediators, and coagulation
Define sepsis - Answersystemic response to infection, manifested by two or more conditions
resulting from infection (temp >38C, HR >90 bpm, RR >20 bpm, PaCO2 <32 mmHg, WBC >12, <4)
Define septic shock - Answersepsis with hypotension, despite adequate fluid resuscitation, along
with presence of perfusion abnormalities including lactic acidosis, oliguria, acute AMS
Risk factors for sepsis - Answermalnutrition, immunosuppression, prolonged antibiotic use, invasive
devices
Define MODS - Answermultiple organ dysfunction, worsening progression of systemic inflammatory
response (SIRS) involving signs of organ dysfunction
Management of sepsis - Answertreat cause (antibiotics), maximize oxygen, maximize CO (difficult bc
pathological problem of SIRS is increased permeability of capillary bed - liberal fluid admin),
decrease oxygen demand (reduce tachycardia, tachypnea, hyperthermia, pain, prevent shivering,
comfort measures)
What is NOT an accurate measurement of adequate perfusion - AnswerBLOOD PRESSURE, adequate
pressure does not always equal adequate perfusion
Symptoms of alcohol withdrawal - Answerinsomnia, tremors, anxiety, GI upset, HA, sweating,
palpitations, hallucinations, seizures, fever, agitation
How is isopropyl alcohol intoxication distinguished from other types of alcohol intoxication -
Answerpresence of ketoacids in urine and serum
Which imbalance is seen in methanol intoxication and relieved by hyperventilation -
Answermetabolic acidosis (decreased bicarbonate level)
