FCCS Patient Monitoring and Safety Flashcards

The ICU Liberation ABCDEF bundle 'E' component stands for:

Answer: Early mobility and exercise

The 'E' in ABCDEF stands for Early mobility and exercise, which reduces delirium, ICU-acquired weakness, and improves long-term functional outcomes.

What is the purpose of a spontaneous breathing trial (SBT) in mechanically ventilated patients?

Answer: To assess readiness for extubation

An SBT evaluates whether the patient can sustain spontaneous breathing independently, predicting successful extubation when passed.

Which parameter in a spontaneous breathing trial indicates failure and need to resume full ventilatory support?

Answer: Rapid shallow breathing index (RSBI) > 105

RSBI (respiratory rate ÷ tidal volume in liters) > 105 predicts SBT failure with high sensitivity, indicating the patient is not ready for extubation.

Early enteral nutrition in ICU patients should ideally be started within how many hours of ICU admission?

Answer: 24–48 hours

SCCM/ASPEN guidelines recommend initiating enteral nutrition within 24–48 hours of ICU admission in hemodynamically stable patients to preserve gut integrity.

A pressure injury (bedsore) in the ICU is best prevented by repositioning patients every how many hours?

Answer: 2 hours

Repositioning every 2 hours redistributes pressure over bony prominences, preventing ischemic skin breakdown and pressure injury development.

What is the primary rationale for glucose control targeting 140–180 mg/dL (rather than strict normoglycemia) in ICU patients?

Answer: Tight glucose control (80–110) increases hypoglycemia risk and mortality, while moderate control balances glycemic harm

The NICE-SUGAR trial showed tight glucose control (80–110 mg/dL) increased mortality and hypoglycemia; moderate control targeting 140–180 mg/dL is now standard.