Nursing Elites

1. A 9-week-old infant is scheduled for cleft lip repair. Which information is most important for the nurse to convey to the surgeon before transporting the infant to the surgical suite?

• A. Red blood cell count of 2.3 million/mm³
• B. White blood cell count of 10,000/mm³
• C. Weight gain of 2 pounds since birth
• D. Urine specific gravity is 1.011

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A because a low red blood cell count may indicate anemia, which could pose risks during surgery. Anemia can affect oxygen delivery to tissues, impacting wound healing and overall surgical outcomes. The other options, such as white blood cell count, weight gain, and urine specific gravity, are less critical for immediate surgical considerations. White blood cell count is more related to infection risk postoperatively rather than immediate surgical risk. Weight gain reflects good overall growth but does not impact the immediate surgical situation. Urine specific gravity is more indicative of hydration status rather than immediate surgical risk.

2. A 6-year-old child is diagnosed with rheumatic fever and demonstrates associated chorea (sudden aimless movements of the arms and legs). Which information should the nurse provide to the parents?

• A. Permanent lifestyle changes need to be made to promote safety in the home
• B. The chorea or movements are temporary and will eventually disappear
• C. Muscle tension is decreased with fine motor project skills, so these activities should be encouraged
• D. Consistent discipline is needed to help the child control the movements

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Chorea associated with rheumatic fever is usually temporary and will subside over time.

3. The healthcare provider is preparing to administer digoxin (Lanoxin) to a 6-month-old infant with heart failure. The healthcare provider notes that the infant’s heart rate is 90 beats per minute. What should the healthcare provider do next?

• A. Administer the medication as prescribed
• B. Hold the medication and notify the healthcare provider
• C. Reassess the heart rate in 30 minutes
• D. Administer half the prescribed dose

Correct answer: B

Rationale: In this scenario, the correct action is to hold the medication and notify the healthcare provider. Digoxin should be withheld if the infant’s heart rate is below 100 beats per minute. Administering digoxin in this situation can further slow down the heart rate in infants with heart failure, leading to potential adverse effects. Reassessing the heart rate in 30 minutes is not the best immediate action to take, as prompt notification and withholding of the medication are crucial. Administering the medication as prescribed or giving half the dose can exacerbate the situation by potentially further lowering the heart rate.

4. The parents of a 4-year-old child who has just been diagnosed with celiac disease are being educated by a healthcare provider. Which statement by the parents indicates a correct understanding of the condition?

• A. We can give our child small amounts of gluten occasionally
• B. We need to avoid giving our child foods containing wheat, barley, and rye
• C. We should limit our child’s intake of dairy products
• D. Our child will need to take gluten-free supplements

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Choice B is the correct answer because for individuals with celiac disease, a strict gluten-free diet is essential for managing the condition. Foods containing wheat, barley, and rye must be completely avoided to prevent adverse reactions and damage to the intestines. This dietary restriction is crucial to ensure the child's health and well-being in managing celiac disease effectively. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because giving small amounts of gluten occasionally, limiting dairy products, or taking gluten-free supplements are not sufficient measures to manage celiac disease. Complete avoidance of gluten-containing foods is necessary to prevent complications.

5. 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?

• A. Engages in odd repetitive behaviors
• B. Shows indifference to verbal stimulation
• C. Strokes the hair of a hand-held doll
• D. Has a history of temper tantrums

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.

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