1. In assessing a patient with acute heart failure, which clinical finding

would be most indicative of decreased cardiac output?

 A. Hypertension

 B. Bradycardia

 C. Tachypnea

 D. Jugular venous distention

 **Answer: C. Tachypnea**

 Rationale: Tachypnea, or rapid breathing, is a common sign of

decreased cardiac output as the body attempts to compensate for

inadequate perfusion.

2. A nurse is evaluating a patient's risk of developing pressure ulcers in an

acute care setting. Which factor is most significant?

 A. Age of the patient

 B. Mobility status

 C. Nutritional intake

 D. Skin moisture level

 **Answer: B. Mobility status**

 Rationale: Immobility or limited mobility greatly increases the risk of

pressure ulcer development due to prolonged pressure on the skin.

3. When creating evidence-based guidelines for pain management in

adults with chronic arthritis, which source of evidence should be

prioritized?

 A. Expert opinion

 B. Randomized controlled trials

 C. Case studies

 D. Qualitative research

 **Answer: B. Randomized controlled trials**

 Rationale: Randomized controlled trials provide high-level evidence due

to their design, which minimizes bias and provides reliable data for

guideline development.

4. In managing a patient with acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS),

which intervention should be initiated first?

 A. High-flow oxygen therapy

 B. Intravenous corticosteroids

 C. Prone positioning