a 6 year old child with asthma is admitted to the hospital with an acute exacerbation what is the priority nursing intervention
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Nursing Elites

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Pediatric HESI 2024

1. A 6-year-old child with asthma is admitted to the hospital with an acute exacerbation. What is the priority nursing intervention?

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Administering a bronchodilator is the priority intervention for a child experiencing an acute asthma exacerbation. Bronchodilators help to dilate the airways, making breathing easier and relieving acute symptoms of asthma. Antihistamines are not the first-line treatment for asthma exacerbations; they are more commonly used for allergic reactions. Corticosteroids are beneficial in reducing inflammation in asthma but are usually administered after bronchodilators to provide long-term control. Oxygen therapy may be necessary in severe cases of asthma exacerbation, but bronchodilators take precedence in improving airway patency and respiratory distress.

2. A 1-week-old infant has been in the pediatric unit for 18 hours following placement of a spica cast. The nurse observes a respiratory rate of fewer than 24 breaths/min. No other changes are noted. Because the infant is apparently well, the nurse does not report or document the slow respiratory rate. Several hours later, the infant experiences severe respiratory distress, and emergency care is necessary. What should be considered if legal action is taken?

Correct answer: C

Rationale: In this scenario, the nurse failed to report or document the slow respiratory rate of the infant, which later led to severe respiratory distress. It is crucial to understand that any vital signs outside the expected range in an infant should be documented and reported promptly. This documentation is vital for monitoring the infant's condition, identifying potential issues, and ensuring timely intervention if needed. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because they downplay the significance of abnormal vital signs and fail to emphasize the importance of documentation and reporting in infant care.

3. What factor predisposes the urinary tract to infection in children?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The short urethra in young girls is a significant factor that predisposes them to urinary tract infections. Girls have a shorter urethra than boys, making it easier for bacteria to travel up the urinary tract, leading to infections. Increased fluid intake (Choice A) is actually a preventive measure as it helps flush out bacteria from the urinary tract. Prostatic secretions in males (Choice C) do not predispose the urinary tract to infection in children. Frequent emptying of the bladder (Choice D) is also a good practice to prevent urinary tract infections by reducing the chances of bacterial growth in the urinary tract.

4. According to Friedman's structural functional theory, what defines the family component of meeting the love and belonging needs of each member?

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Friedman's structural functional theory outlines different functions of a family. The affective function, as defined by Friedman, pertains to meeting the love and belonging needs of each member. This includes emotional support, nurturing, and creating a sense of security within the family unit. Choices B, C, and D do not specifically address the affective function described in Friedman's theory. Choice B focuses on socialization and preparing children for adult roles, choice C relates to the economic function of a family, and choice D pertains to the instrumental function of providing physical care for health.

5. The nurse is reviewing the laboratory test results of a child with Addison's disease. What would the nurse expect to find?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: In Addison's disease, adrenal insufficiency leads to decreased aldosterone production. The decreased aldosterone results in impaired sodium reabsorption and potassium excretion, leading to hyperkalemia. Hypernatremia (Choice A) is unlikely because sodium reabsorption is impaired. Hyperglycemia (Choice C) is not a typical lab finding in Addison's disease. Hypercalcemia (Choice D) is not associated with Addison's disease; rather, it can be seen in conditions like hyperparathyroidism.

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