TheoryPCCN Study Guide
Study for the PCCN with exam topics, practice questions, a free PDF, video walkthrough and timed mock exam links.
How to study for PCCN
- Read the topic list so you know what the exam is likely to cover.
- Answer the free practice questions and read every explanation.
- Download the PDF for offline review.
- Use timed mock exams when your untimed practice feels comfortable.
Topics to review
- Safe and effective care environment
- Health promotion and maintenance
- Psychosocial and physiological integrity
- Pharmacology, infection control and patient safety
Try PCCN questions now
Q1Which of the following is NOT an air-leak syndrome?
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✓ Correct answer: Pneumocranium
The four main types of air-leak syndromes include pneumothorax, pneumopericardium, pneumomediastinum, and pulmonary interstitial emphysema.
Q2Where should the chest drainage unit be placed?
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✓ Correct answer: below the patient's chest
A patient with a pneumothorax may have a chest tube. The chest drainage unit needs to be placed below the patient's chest. This will prevent a backup.
Q3A common cause of chronic respiratory failure is chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). <br/><br/>What is the most common cause of COPD?
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✓ Correct answer: Smoking
Smoking is the most common cause of COPD. COPD is a collection of conditions that impair the flow of air into and out of the lungs (suchg as emphysema and bronchitis).
Q4Which of the following is NOT a potential cause of hypoventilation?
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✓ Correct answer: Hypercapnia (too much CO2 in blood)
Stroke in the brainstem, heroin overdose and chronic mountain sickness are all potential causes of hypoventilation. Hypocapnia (too little CO2 in the blood) is another potential cause, but hypercapnia is actually the result of hypoventilation.
Q5COPD is a progressive disease; what does this mean about COPD?
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✓ Correct answer: It get progressively worse over time
COPD is a progressive disease. This means that over time, it gets progressively worse.
Q6Which of the following is NOT a diagnostic test to determine pulmonary embolism?
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✓ Correct answer: pulse oximetry
Pulse oximetry is used to monitor oxygen saturation. The other answers are used to diagnose pulmonary embolism. Chest X-ray, ABG, and examination are also used to determine pulmonary embolism.
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