Nursing Elites

1. A 4-year-old boy with a tracheostomy tube is experiencing respiratory distress. He has intercostal retractions, a heart rate of 80 beats/min, and an oxygen saturation of 85%. During his attempts to breathe, a gurgling sound is heard in the tracheostomy tube. You should:

• A. Ventilate through the tracheostomy tube.
• B. Place an oxygen mask over the tracheostomy tube.
• C. Remove the tracheostomy tube and clean it.
• D. Carefully suction the tracheostomy tube.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: In this scenario, the 4-year-old boy with a tracheostomy tube is showing signs of respiratory distress, including intercostal retractions, a low heart rate, and decreased oxygen saturation. The gurgling sound indicates a possible airway obstruction. Correctly, the immediate action should be to carefully suction the tracheostomy tube. Suctioning can help clear any secretions or obstructions, thus improving the child's ability to breathe effectively. Ventilating through the tube, placing an oxygen mask over it, or removing and cleaning the tube would not address the potential obstruction and could worsen the respiratory distress.

2. When assessing a geriatric patient who has possibly experienced an acute ischemic stroke, which of the following questions would be MOST appropriate to ask?

• A. When did you first notice the symptoms?
• B. Do you have a history of high blood pressure?
• C. What medications do you take and why?
• D. Have you previously had a heart attack?

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The most appropriate question to ask when assessing a geriatric patient who may have experienced an acute ischemic stroke is when the symptoms were first noticed. This information is crucial for determining the time window for potential treatments like thrombolytic therapy, as prompt intervention is necessary for stroke management. Option B is not as relevant in the acute assessment of stroke, though important for overall health history. Option C is important but may not be as time-sensitive as determining symptom onset. Option D focuses on a different cardiac event, not directly related to the current concern of a possible stroke.

3. In which of the following situations would the EMT MOST likely deliver a baby at the scene?

• A. A tornado has struck and blocked the only route to the hospital.
• B. Contractions are 8 to 10 minutes apart and irregular.
• C. The amniotic sac has ruptured, and contractions occur regularly.
• D. The hospital is 15 miles away, and crowning is not present.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The EMT may be required to deliver a baby at the scene when external factors like a tornado have blocked the only route to the hospital, making it impossible to reach the medical facility in time for delivery. In such emergencies, the EMT must be prepared to manage the childbirth process until further medical assistance can be obtained.

4. During your assessment of a woman in labor, you see the baby's arm protruding from the vagina. The mother tells you that she needs to push. You should:

• A. gently push the protruding arm back into the vagina.
• B. encourage the mother to push and give her high-flow oxygen.
• C. insert your gloved fingers into the vagina and try to turn the baby.
• D. cover the arm with a sterile towel and transport immediately.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: When encountering a protruding limb during delivery, it is crucial to recognize this as an emergency situation. The correct action is to cover the limb with a sterile towel to prevent injury and transport the mother immediately to a medical facility. Attempting to push the limb back into the vagina or trying to manipulate the baby's position can be harmful and delay necessary medical intervention. Encouraging the mother to push and providing high-flow oxygen is not appropriate in this scenario as immediate transport is essential to ensure the safety of both the mother and the baby.

5. The healthcare provider is assessing a newborn for signs of hypoglycemia. Which finding is consistent with hypoglycemia?

• A. Jitteriness
• B. Flushed skin
• C. Quiet alert state
• D. Strong cry

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Jitteriness is a common clinical manifestation of hypoglycemia in newborns. It is important to recognize this sign promptly as it can indicate a potentially serious condition that requires immediate attention and intervention to prevent complications.

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