Describe your knowledge of caring for patients with acute respiratory failure in the ICU.

Sample interview questions: Describe your knowledge of caring for patients with acute respiratory failure in the ICU.

Sample answer:

1. Assessment:

2. Pulmonary System:

   • Utilize arterial blood gas (ABG) analysis to interpret respiratory parameters like PaO2, PaCO2, pH, and bicarbonate levels.
   • Recognize the significance of lung auscultation findings and pulse oximetry readings in identifying oxygenation and respiratory distress.
   • Assess respiratory rate, patterns, and work of breathing to promptly identify respiratory failure.

3. Systemic Considerations:

   • Monitor vital signs for signs of hemodynamic instability or multi-organ dysfunction.
   • Evaluate oxygenation status through continuous pulse oximetry and interpret trends.
   • Recognize hypercarbia and acidosis as potential complications in patients on prolonged mechanical ventilation.
   • Identify risks for infection, such as ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP), and monitor patients closely for signs and symptoms.

4. Respiratory Management:

5. Mechanical Ventilation:

   • Demonstrate proficiency in managing patients on mechanical ventilation, including endotracheal tubes and tracheostomies.
   • Titrate ventilator settings (tidal volume, respiratory rate, positive end-expiratory pressure, fraction of inspired oxygen) based on ABG results, clinical status, and physician’s orders.
   • Manage ventilator alarms and troubleshoot common problems (e.g., leaks, circuit disconnections).
6. Non-Invasive Ventilation:
   • Administer non-invasive ventilation (NIV) as prescribed, such as continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) or bilevel positive airway pressure (BiPAP), to support respiratory function.
   • Ensure proper mask fitting and monitoring for tolerance and effectiveness of NIV.

7. Oxygen Therapy:

   • Administer supplemental oxygen through appropriate delivery systems (nasal cannula, face mask, Venturi mask).
   • Monitor oxygen saturation levels and adjust oxygen flow rate as needed to maintain target saturation.
   • Ensure safe oxygen handling and storage to prevent fire hazards.

8. Hemodynamic Management:

9. Fluid Balance:

   • Accurately calculate fluid requirements and administer fluids judiciously to maintain hemodynamic stability and prevent fluid overload.
   • Monitor fluid balance closely and assess for signs of edema or volume depletion.
10. Vasopressors and Inotropes:
    • Administer vasopressors and inotropes as prescribed to support blood pressure and cardiac output in patients with shock or hemodynamic instability.
    • Titrate these medications carefully based on hemodynamic parameters and physician orders… Read full answer

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