Nursing Elites

1. A 1-week-old infant has been in the pediatric unit for 18 hours following placement of a spica cast. The nurse observes a respiratory rate of fewer than 24 breaths/min. No other changes are noted. Because the infant is apparently well, the nurse does not report or document the slow respiratory rate. Several hours later, the infant experiences severe respiratory distress and emergency care is necessary. What should be considered if legal action is taken?

• A. Most infants have slow respirations when they are uncomfortable.
• B. The respirations of young infants are irregular, so a drop in rate is unimportant.
• C. Vital signs that are outside the expected parameters are significant and should be documented.
• D. The respiratory tract of young infants is underdeveloped, and their respiratory rate is not significant.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: In this scenario, the correct answer is C. Any vital signs outside the expected range in an infant should be documented and reported, as they may indicate a developing condition that requires prompt attention. Choice A is incorrect because slow respirations in infants should not be dismissed without assessment and documentation. Choice B is incorrect because a drop in respiratory rate in this case was significant and should have been documented. Choice D is incorrect because even though infants have underdeveloped respiratory tracts, any abnormal respiratory rate should be taken seriously and documented for monitoring and intervention if necessary.

2. The parents of a newborn with phenylketonuria (PKU) need help and support in adhering to specific dietary restrictions. They ask the nurse, “How long will our child have to be on this diet?” How should the nurse respond?

• A. “We are still not sure; you should discuss this with your health care provider.”
• B. “If your baby does well, foods containing protein can gradually be introduced.”
• C. “Your child needs to be on this diet at least through adolescence and into adulthood.”
• D. “This is a lifelong problem, and it is recommended that dietary restrictions must be continued.”

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: “This is a lifelong problem, and it is recommended that dietary restrictions must be continued.” PKU requires a lifelong adherence to a specific diet low in phenylalanine to prevent cognitive and developmental issues. Phenylalanine buildup can lead to irreversible damage, making it crucial for individuals with PKU to maintain dietary restrictions throughout their lives. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect because they do not address the lifelong nature of dietary restrictions necessary for PKU management.

3. The nurse is assessing a 4-year-old client. Which finding suggests to the nurse this child may have a genetic disorder?

• A. The inquiry determines the child had feeding problems.
• B. The child weighs 40 lb (18.2 kg) and is 40 in (101.6 cm) in height.
• C. The child has low-set ears with lobe creases.
• D. The child can hop on one foot but cannot skip.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Low-set ears with lobe creases are often associated with genetic disorders, such as Down syndrome, and can indicate underlying chromosomal abnormalities. This physical characteristic is a common feature seen in various genetic syndromes. The other choices, including feeding problems, weight and height measurements, and motor skills, are not typically specific indicators of genetic disorders in the absence of other associated features.

4. What is an essential nursing action when caring for a young child with severe diarrhea?

• A. Maintain the IV.
• B. Take daily weights.
• C. Replace the lost calories.
• D. Promote perianal skin integrity.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Promoting perianal skin integrity is crucial when caring for a young child with severe diarrhea to prevent skin breakdown from the irritation caused by frequent bowel movements. Maintaining the IV (Choice A) may be important for hydration but is not directly related to managing skin integrity. Taking daily weights (Choice B) is important for monitoring fluid balance but does not address the immediate need to prevent skin breakdown. While replacing lost calories (Choice C) is important, it is not the priority when a child is experiencing severe diarrhea and skin integrity is at risk.

5. A 34-year-old woman, who is 36 weeks pregnant, is having a seizure. After you protect her airway and ensure adequate ventilation, you should transport her

• A. on her left side
• B. in the prone position
• C. in the supine position
• D. in a semi-sitting position

Correct answer: A

Rationale: When a pregnant woman experiences a seizure, it is crucial to transport her on her left side. This position helps to improve blood flow to the fetus by preventing compression of the inferior vena cava, reducing the risk of further complications. Placing her in the prone position (lying face down) or supine position (lying on her back) may compromise blood flow to the fetus and lead to adverse outcomes. Similarly, transporting her in a semi-sitting position may not provide the optimal circulation needed for both the woman and the fetus during this critical situation.

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