Nursing Elites

1. A 6-year-old child with a history of asthma is brought to the clinic with complaints of wheezing and shortness of breath. The nurse notes that the child is using accessory muscles to breathe. What should the nurse do first?

• A. Administer a bronchodilator
• B. Obtain a peak flow reading
• C. Apply oxygen
• D. Perform a complete respiratory assessment

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Administering a bronchodilator is the initial priority as it helps open the child's airways, reducing the wheezing and shortness of breath. This intervention aims to provide immediate relief and improve the child's respiratory distress. Obtaining a peak flow reading or applying oxygen may be necessary after administering the bronchodilator, but the priority is to address the acute symptoms of wheezing and shortness of breath first. Performing a complete respiratory assessment can be done after the immediate intervention of administering the bronchodilator to further evaluate the child's respiratory status.

2. A child who is admitted to the hospital with anemia is anxious, fearful, and hyperventilating. The nurse anticipates the child developing which acid-base imbalance?

• A. Metabolic acidosis
• B. Respiratory acidosis
• C. Respiratory alkalosis
• D. Metabolic alkalosis

Correct answer: C

Rationale: In this scenario, the child is hyperventilating, which leads to excessive loss of carbon dioxide. This loss of carbon dioxide causes respiratory alkalosis due to a decrease in the partial pressure of carbon dioxide in the blood. Therefore, the correct answer is respiratory alkalosis. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect. Metabolic acidosis is characterized by a decrease in pH and bicarbonate levels due to conditions like kidney disease. Respiratory acidosis is caused by retention of carbon dioxide, leading to an increase in the partial pressure of carbon dioxide. Metabolic alkalosis results from a loss of acid or an increase in bicarbonate levels.

3. A 4-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 is the nurse’s priority action?

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

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The nurse's priority action should be to inspect the child's ears for drainage. This immediate assessment can provide valuable information about the presence of infection or fluid accumulation, which can directly impact the child's hearing. By identifying any signs of drainage, the nurse can promptly address any current issues affecting the child's ear health and hearing abilities. Performing a hearing test (Choice A) may be necessary but should follow the initial assessment of the ears. Referring the child to an audiologist (Choice C) can be considered later based on the findings. Asking about speech development (Choice D) is important but not the immediate priority compared to assessing for current ear issues.

4. What information should be reinforced with the mother of a child with ringworm (Tinea)?

• A. Ringworm is not contagious.
• B. Tinea infections are indicative of poor hygiene and uncleanliness.
• C. Tinea infections are spread by direct and indirect contact.
• D. Ringworm often subsides spontaneously.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C. Ringworm, a fungal infection, is highly contagious and can be spread by direct contact with infected individuals or animals and indirectly through contaminated objects. It is important for the mother to understand the modes of transmission to prevent the spread of the infection to others and to take necessary precautions to ensure proper treatment and containment of the condition. Choices A and D are incorrect because ringworm is indeed contagious, and it may not always subside spontaneously. Choice B is misleading as tinea infections are not solely indicative of poor hygiene; they can affect anyone, regardless of personal cleanliness.

5. A mother brings her 3-month-old infant to the clinic because the baby does not sleep through the night. Which finding is most significant in planning care for this family?

• A. The mother is a single parent and lives with her parents
• B. The mother states the baby is irritable during feedings
• C. The infant’s formula has been changed twice
• D. The diaper area shows severe skin breakdown

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Severe skin breakdown in the diaper area is a significant finding indicating a potential health issue that needs immediate attention. It may be a sign of a skin condition, such as a diaper rash, which can cause discomfort and pain for the infant. Addressing this concern promptly is crucial to prevent further complications and ensure the baby's well-being. The other choices may also be important in assessing the overall situation of the family, but in terms of immediate care for the infant, the severe skin breakdown takes priority.

Similar Questions