a 2 year old child with croup is brought to the emergency department the child has a barking cough and stridor what is the nurses priority action
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Nursing Elites

HESI RN

Pediatric HESI

1. What is the priority action for a 2-year-old child with croup presenting with a barking cough and stridor?

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The priority action for a 2-year-old child with croup and stridor is to administer nebulized epinephrine. Nebulized epinephrine helps reduce airway swelling, alleviate symptoms, and improve breathing by causing vasoconstriction and reducing upper airway edema. Administering a corticosteroid may be done but is not the priority in this scenario. Obtaining a throat culture is not necessary for the immediate management of croup. Placing the child in an upright position can aid in breathing but is not the priority action when the child is presenting with stridor.

2. A middle school student was recently diagnosed with attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and is having trouble with his grades. He is referred to the school nurse by the teacher because he continues to have learning problems. Which action should the school nurse take?

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Referring the child to the school counselor for educational testing is the most appropriate action in this scenario. This step can help identify the specific learning needs of the student and determine the appropriate interventions required to support his academic success. Option A is not the immediate action needed but may be considered in the future. Option B focuses on homework assistance, which may not address the underlying learning problems. Option D involves consulting the school principal, which is not the primary role in addressing the student's learning needs.

3. 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?

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.

4. During a routine assessment of a 3-year-old at a community health center, the healthcare professional should be alert for signs of autism spectrum disorder. Which behavior by the child should prompt further evaluation for a possible autistic spectrum disorder?

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Engaging in odd repetitive behaviors is a hallmark sign of autism spectrum disorder in children. These behaviors can include repetitive movements, insistence on sameness, or specific routines. Recognizing and addressing these behaviors early can help in providing appropriate interventions and support for the child.

5. The healthcare provider is providing postoperative care to a 4-year-old child who underwent tonsillectomy. The provider notices that the child is frequently swallowing. What should the provider do first?

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Frequent swallowing after tonsillectomy may indicate bleeding, which requires immediate assessment and intervention. Checking the child’s throat for signs of bleeding is the priority to ensure timely identification and management of any potential bleeding complications.

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