CFRN MCQ 4

Question 1

A flight nurse is transporting a patient with an IABP (intra-aortic balloon pump). Which complication requires IMMEDIATE intervention during transport?

Accepted Answer

Loss of helium in the drive line with cessation of counterpulsation

Answer

Loss of helium gas and IABP cessation means loss of cardiac support, which is immediately life-threatening in cardiogenic shock.

Question 2

During high-altitude fixed-wing transport, which physiological change directly causes hypoxia despite normal sea-level oxygen saturation?

Accepted Answer

Dalton's Law: decreased partial pressure of oxygen despite same FiO2

Answer

At altitude, total barometric pressure drops, reducing the partial pressure of oxygen (PO2) even though the fraction of O2 in air (21%) remains constant.

Question 3

A patient with an acute ST-elevation MI (STEMI) is being transported to a PCI center. En route, the patient develops a wide complex tachycardia at 160 bpm with a pulse. What is the MOST appropriate intervention?

Accepted Answer

Initiate amiodarone 150 mg IV over 10 min and consider synchronized cardioversion if unstable

Answer

Stable wide-complex tachycardia in the setting of STEMI is likely VT; amiodarone is preferred, with cardioversion if the patient deteriorates.

Question 4

Which parameter is the BEST indicator of adequate tissue perfusion in a patient with hemorrhagic shock during transport?

Accepted Answer

Serum lactate trend toward normalization

Answer

Lactate clearance reflects resolution of anaerobic metabolism and is the most sensitive marker of restored cellular perfusion.

Question 5

A 28-year-old pregnant patient at 34 weeks gestation is in severe preeclampsia. Which medication is FIRST-LINE to prevent seizure progression?

Accepted Answer

Magnesium sulfate 4–6 g IV loading dose over 15–20 minutes

Answer

Magnesium sulfate is the standard of care for seizure prophylaxis and treatment in eclampsia/severe preeclampsia.

CFRN - Certified Flight Registered Nurse Practice Test

CFRN - Certified Flight Registered Nurse Practice Test

CFRN MCQ 4