Nursing Elites

1. How should a nurse prepare a 15-month-old child diagnosed with hydrocephalus for a computed tomography (CT) scan?

• A. Shaving the child's head
• B. Starting the prescribed IV infusion
• C. Administering the prescribed sedative
• D. Giving the child a simple explanation of the procedure

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Preparing a toddler for a CT scan involves providing a simple explanation of the procedure to help reduce anxiety and fear. Shaving the child's head is unnecessary for a CT scan and may increase distress. Starting an IV infusion or administering sedatives may not be appropriate or necessary for all pediatric patients undergoing CT scans, especially if the child can cooperate without these interventions.

2. A nurse is assessing a 2-year-old child with suspected Down syndrome. What characteristic physical feature is the nurse likely to observe?

• A. Epicanthal folds
• B. Webbed neck
• C. Enlarged head
• D. Polydactyly

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Epicanthal folds are a distinctive physical feature commonly observed in individuals with Down syndrome. These are horizontal skin folds that cover the inner corners of the eyes. Webbed neck (choice B) is not typically associated with Down syndrome but can be seen in conditions like Turner syndrome. Enlarged head (choice C) is not a characteristic feature of Down syndrome; however, individuals with hydrocephalus may present with this finding. Polydactyly (choice D) is the presence of extra fingers or toes, which is not a typical feature of Down syndrome.

3. A newborn is admitted to the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) with choanal atresia. Which part of the infant’s body should the nurse assess?

• A. Rectum
• B. Nasopharynx
• C. Intestinal tract
• D. Laryngopharynx

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Choanal atresia is a congenital condition that presents with a blockage in the nasal passages at the junction of the nasal cavity and the nasopharynx. To assess and confirm the diagnosis of choanal atresia, the nurse should focus on assessing the nasopharynx. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect as choanal atresia specifically involves a blockage in the nasal passages, not the rectum, intestinal tract, or laryngopharynx. By assessing the nasopharynx, the severity of the obstruction can be determined, aiding in planning appropriate interventions for the newborn.

4. During a routine monthly examination, a 5-month-old infant is brought to the pediatric clinic. What assessment finding should alert the nurse to notify the health care provider?

• A. Temperature of 99.5°F
• B. Blood pressure of 75/48 mm Hg
• C. Heart rate of 100 beats per minute
• D. Respiratory rate of 50 breaths per minute

Correct answer: D

Rationale: A respiratory rate of 50 breaths per minute in a 5-month-old infant is considered high and may indicate respiratory distress. Infants normally have a higher respiratory rate than older children and adults, but a rate of 50 breaths per minute is above the expected range. This finding warrants immediate attention as it may be indicative of an underlying respiratory issue or distress. Choice A (Temperature of 99.5°F) is within the normal range for body temperature and does not necessarily indicate a critical issue. Choice B (Blood pressure of 75/48 mm Hg) is not typically assessed in isolation for a 5-month-old infant during a routine examination, and the values provided are not indicative of a critical condition. Choice C (Heart rate of 100 beats per minute) is within the normal range for heart rate in infants and may not be a cause for immediate concern during a routine examination.

5. A child with a diagnosis of appendicitis is scheduled for surgery. What preoperative intervention is important for the nurse to perform?

• A. Administering antibiotics
• B. Maintaining strict NPO status
• C. Encouraging fluid intake
• D. Monitoring for signs of infection

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct preoperative intervention for a child with appendicitis scheduled for surgery is maintaining strict NPO (nothing by mouth) status. This is crucial to reduce the risk of aspiration during anesthesia induction and prevent potential complications during surgery. Administering antibiotics may be a part of the treatment plan but is not a preoperative intervention. Encouraging fluid intake is contraindicated preoperatively to avoid delays in surgery and complications related to anesthesia. Monitoring for signs of infection is important postoperatively to assess for any complications that may arise due to the surgical procedure.

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