Nursing Elites

1. A 2-year-old child with a history of frequent ear infections is brought to the clinic by the parents who are concerned about the child’s hearing. What should the nurse do first?

• A. Ask the parents about the child’s speech development
• B. Perform a hearing test
• C. Inspect the child’s ears for drainage
• D. Refer the child to an audiologist

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The most appropriate initial action for the nurse to take is to inspect the child's ears for drainage. This step can provide immediate information on the presence of infection or fluid, which could be impacting the child's hearing. By assessing for drainage, the nurse can gather valuable initial data to determine the next course of action, such as further evaluation or treatment. Asking about speech development or referring to an audiologist would be secondary steps after assessing the physical condition of the ears. Performing a hearing test would also be premature without first examining the ears for any visible issues.

2. A mother reports to the nurse at the pediatric clinic that her toddler has had a fever and sore throat for the past two days. The nurse observes several swollen red spots on the child's body, some of which are fluid-filled blisters. What action should the nurse take?

• A. Obtain a fluid culture from the blisters
• B. Administer a fever-reducing medication
• C. Cover the draining vesicles with a dressing
• D. Implement transmission precautions

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The presence of swollen red spots and fluid-filled blisters may indicate a contagious condition. Implementing transmission precautions is crucial to prevent the spread of the infection to others in the clinic setting.

3. When screening a 5-year-old for strabismus, what action should the nurse take?

• A. Have the child identify colored patterns on polychromatic cards.
• B. Direct the child through the six cardinal positions of gaze.
• C. Inspect the child for the setting sun sign.
• D. Observe the child for blank, sunken eyes.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: When screening a 5-year-old for strabismus, directing the child through the six cardinal positions of gaze is the most appropriate action. This method helps the nurse to assess eye alignment, which is crucial in identifying any misalignment that may indicate strabismus. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect. Having the child identify colored patterns on polychromatic cards is more related to visual acuity testing rather than strabismus screening. Inspecting the child for the setting sun sign is not a standard method for strabismus screening. Observing the child for blank, sunken eyes is not specific to strabismus assessment.

4. When assessing the breath sounds of an 18-month-old child who is crying, what action should the healthcare professional take?

• A. Document that the assessment is not available because the child is crying.
• B. Ask the caregiver to quiet the child so breath sounds can be auscultated.
• C. Allow the child to play with a stethoscope to distract them during auscultation.
• D. Auscultate and document breath sounds, noting that the child was crying at the time.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Allowing the child to play with a stethoscope can help distract them, making it easier to auscultate breath sounds. This approach can create a more cooperative and engaging environment for the child, facilitating a more accurate assessment of their breath sounds. Choice A is incorrect because it does not address the need for an assessment. Choice B is not ideal as it puts pressure on the caregiver and may not be effective in calming the child. Choice D is not the best option as it does not actively involve the child in the assessment process and may not provide an accurate representation of their breath sounds.

5. A child with cystic fibrosis is being discharged home with pancreatic enzyme replacement therapy. What information should the practical nurse reinforce with the parents?

• A. Give the enzymes after meals.
• B. Mix the enzymes with hot food or drinks.
• C. Enzymes should be taken before or with meals.
• D. Avoid giving enzymes with any food or drink.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: 'Enzymes should be taken before or with meals.' Pancreatic enzymes should be taken before or with meals to assist with digestion in children with cystic fibrosis. This timing helps maximize the effectiveness of the enzymes in breaking down nutrients from food. Giving the enzymes after meals (choice A) may not provide the necessary support for digestion. Mixing the enzymes with hot food or drinks (choice B) is not recommended as it may affect the enzymes' efficacy. Avoiding giving enzymes with any food or drink (choice D) is incorrect as enzymes need to be taken in conjunction with meals to aid in digestion.

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