FCCS Exam Review | 100% Correct Answers | Verified | Latest 2024 Version

What is the most important sign in a critically ill pt? Why? - Tachypnea Indicates metabolic acidosis w/ respiratory alkalosis compensation A pt misses dialysis for a few days and comes in with fluid overload. He's tachycardic and tachypneic. On physical exam, you find JVD, pulsus paradoxus (20 mmHg drop during inspiration), and HoTN (80/40) with distant, muffled heart sounds. Lungs are clear to auscultation. What is the dx? - Cardiac tamponade; obstructive shock If a pt has a thyromental distance of 2 cm, what can you expect about their airway? - Difficult airway w/ an anteriorly displaced larynx A COPD pt comes in with difficulty breathing. He then becomes apneic and unresponsive. How would you ventilate this pt? - BVM A pt arrives after falling from a ladder and has a frontal laceration. On examination, you find papilledema and labored breathing w/o being able to clear secretions. What is your biggest concern when intubating this pt? - Cerebral edema/increasing ICP Intubation tends to cause an increase in ICP. Administer lidocaine prior to intubation to inhibit vagal stimulation. An ESRD pt w/ hyperkalemia develops dyspnea and requires intubation. Which paralytic agent/NMB should you avoid and why? - Succinylcholine