DHA Nursing Critical Care & Emergency 1

Question 1

In adult basic life support (BLS), what is the correct chest compression rate?

Accepted Answer

100–120 compressions per minute

Answer

The American Heart Association and current BLS guidelines recommend a chest compression rate of 100–120 per minute to maintain adequate cardiac output during CPR.

Question 2

Which arterial blood gas (ABG) finding is consistent with respiratory acidosis?

Accepted Answer

pH < 7.35 with PaCO2 > 45 mmHg

Answer

Respiratory acidosis is characterised by a low pH below 7.35 combined with CO2 retention (PaCO2 > 45 mmHg), reflecting inadequate ventilation.

Question 3

What does the SBAR communication tool stand for?

Accepted Answer

Situation, Background, Assessment, Recommendation

Answer

SBAR (Situation, Background, Assessment, Recommendation) is a structured communication framework that improves clarity and safety during handoffs and urgent patient notifications.

Question 4

A patient's SpO2 drops to 88% on room air. What is the nurse's immediate priority?

Accepted Answer

Apply supplemental oxygen and reassess

Answer

An SpO2 of 88% indicates significant hypoxaemia; immediate supplemental oxygen is required to restore adequate tissue oxygenation.

Question 5

Which early sign of septic shock distinguishes it from other shock types?

Accepted Answer

Warm, flushed skin with hypotension (warm shock phase)

Answer

In early septic shock (warm phase), vasodilation causes warm, flushed skin and hypotension, distinguishing it from the cool vasoconstriction seen in cardiogenic or hypovolaemic shock.

DHA Nursing Practice Test

DHA Nursing Practice Test

DHA Nursing Critical Care & Emergency 1