Nursing Elites

1. A child admitted with diabetic ketoacidosis is demonstrating Kussmaul respirations. The nurse determines that the increased respiratory rate is a compensatory mechanism for which acid-base alteration?

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

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Kussmaul respirations are deep, rapid breathing patterns observed in metabolic acidosis, such as diabetic ketoacidosis. In this condition, the body tries to compensate for the acidic environment by increasing the respiratory rate to eliminate excess carbon dioxide (CO2) and decrease the acid levels, thereby helping to correct the acid-base imbalance. Therefore, the correct answer is metabolic acidosis.

2. The healthcare provider is preparing to administer a scheduled dose of digoxin to a 4-year-old child with heart failure. The healthcare provider notes that the child’s heart rate is 70 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. Recheck the heart rate in 30 minutes
• D. Administer half of the prescribed dose

Correct answer: B

Rationale: In pediatric patients, digoxin administration is guided by the heart rate. If the child's heart rate is below the established threshold, which is typically 90-100 beats per minute in a 4-year-old, the medication should be withheld, and the healthcare provider should be notified for further evaluation and instructions. Choice A is incorrect because administering the medication when the heart rate is low can lead to adverse effects. Rechecking the heart rate in 30 minutes (Choice C) may delay necessary intervention if the heart rate remains low. Administering half of the prescribed dose (Choice D) is not recommended without healthcare provider guidance.

3. The parents of a 3-month-old infant are being educated by the healthcare provider about safe sleep practices. Which statement by the parents indicates a need for further teaching?

• A. We will place our baby on their back to sleep
• B. We will use a firm mattress and avoid soft bedding
• C. We will keep our baby in our bed so we can monitor them closely
• D. We will avoid putting toys or pillows in the crib

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C. Co-sleeping, or keeping the baby in the parents' bed, increases the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). It is crucial for parents to place the baby in a separate crib or bassinet to ensure a safe sleep environment and reduce the risk of SIDS. Choices A, B, and D demonstrate understanding of safe sleep practices by mentioning placing the baby on their back, using a firm mattress and avoiding soft bedding, and not putting toys or pillows in the crib, which are all measures to promote safe sleep and reduce the risk of SIDS.

4. When reviewing the dietary guidelines for a child with nephrotic syndrome, which diet should the practical nurse reinforce with the parents?

• A. High protein.
• B. Low sodium.
• C. Low fat.
• D. High carbohydrate.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct diet that the practical nurse should reinforce with the parents of a child with nephrotic syndrome is a low-sodium diet. This diet is crucial for managing fluid retention and reducing the risk of edema, which are common concerns in children with nephrotic syndrome.

5. A child with pertussis is receiving azithromycin (Zithromax Injection) IV. Which intervention is most important for the nurse to include in the child’s plan of care?

• A. Obtain vital signs to monitor for fluid overload
• B. Change IV site dressing every 3 days and as needed
• C. Monitor for signs of facial swelling or urticaria
• D. Assess for abdominal pain and vomiting

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Monitoring for signs of an allergic reaction, such as facial swelling or urticaria, is crucial when administering antibiotics like azithromycin. It is important to watch for these signs to promptly identify and manage any potential adverse reactions during the course of treatment.

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