Critical Care & Theatre: NCK Exam Questions & Revision

For single-rescuer adult CPR, the ratio of chest compressions to ventilations is:

• A. 15 compressions to 2 breaths
• B. 5 compressions to 1 breath
• C. 30 compressions to 2 breaths
• D. 10 compressions to 2 breaths

Why: Single-rescuer adult CPR uses a 30:2 ratio of compressions to ventilations.

The first priority in managing an unconscious trauma patient is to:

• A. Control external bleeding
• B. Establish IV access
• C. Secure the airway while protecting the cervical spine
• D. Take a full history

Why: Following the ABCDE approach, airway management with cervical-spine protection is the first priority in trauma.

A patient experiencing elevated intracranial pressure is likely to exhibit the following signs:

• A. Tarchycardia, bradycardia, hypotension.
• B. Reflex vomiting, hypertension, tachycardia.
• C. Projectile vomiting, tachycardia, hypothermia.
• D. Hypertension, tachycardia, bradypnoea.

Why: Elevated intracranial pressure (ICP) often presents with Cushing's triad, which includes hypertension, bradycardia, and irregular respirations. However, reflex vomiting and hypertension are also common signs. Tachycardia is not typical in elevated ICP, making options a, c, and d incorrect. Option b correctly includes hypertension and reflex vomiting, although it incorrectly lists tachycardia instead of bradycardia.

The assessment conducted at the emergency room during the course is classified as a type of:

• A. Impact ~valuation.
• B. Process evaluation.
• C. Summative evaluation.
• D. Formative evaluation.

Why: Formative evaluation is conducted during the course of a program or intervention to monitor progress and provide ongoing feedback. In the context of an emergency room assessment, it helps in making immediate adjustments to care plans. Summative evaluation, on the other hand, is conducted at the end of a program to assess its overall impact. Process evaluation focuses on the implementation process, and impact evaluation assesses the long-term effects. Therefore, the correct answer is formative evaluation.

Which type of intracranial hemorrhage is associated with the most severe prognosis?

• A. Cephalohematoma.
• B. Epidural hemorrhage.
• C. Intracerebral hemorrhage.
• D. Subarachnoid hemorrhage.

Why: Intracerebral hemorrhage is associated with the most severe prognosis due to the direct bleeding into the brain tissue, which can cause significant damage and increased intracranial pressure. Cephalohematoma is a localized collection of blood under the periosteum of the skull and is generally not life-threatening. Epidural hemorrhage, while serious, can often be treated effectively if identified early. Subarachnoid hemorrhage can be severe but typically has a better prognosis than intracerebral hemorrhage if managed promptly.

The method of soaking used dressing tools in a diluted hibitane solution is referred to as:

• A. Chemical sterilization.
• B. Disinfection.
• C. Decontamination.
• D. Cold sterilization.

Why: The process of soaking dressing tools in a diluted hibitane solution is referred to as disinfection. Disinfection involves the use of chemical agents to reduce or eliminate pathogenic microorganisms on inanimate objects. Chemical sterilization and cold sterilization imply complete elimination of all forms of microbial life, which is not achieved by hibitane. Decontamination is a broader term that includes cleaning, disinfection, and sterilization.