Nursing Elites

1. A child is brought to the clinic after tripping over a rock. The child states, 'I twisted my ankle,' and is given a diagnosis of a sprain. What intervention is most important for the nurse to include in the discharge instructions for this child?

• A. For the first 24 hours, apply ice for 20 minutes and then remove for 60 minutes.
• B. Bed rest with the leg elevated for 36 hours.
• C. May take an NSAID for pain as needed.
• D. Use a compression dressing for 72 hours.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct intervention for a sprained ankle is to apply ice for 20 minutes every hour for the first 24 hours, then remove for 60 minutes to prevent tissue damage. This regimen helps reduce swelling and pain. Bed rest with the leg elevated for an extended period (36 hours) may lead to stiffness and decreased range of motion. While NSAIDs can be used for pain, they may not be necessary if pain is manageable with ice and rest. Using a compression dressing for 72 hours continuously may impede proper circulation and delay healing by restricting blood flow.

2. The nurse is reviewing the laboratory test results of a child diagnosed with disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC). What would the nurse interpret as indicative of this disorder?

• A. Shortened prothrombin time
• B. Increased fibrinogen level
• C. Positive fibrin split products
• D. Increased platelets

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Positive fibrin split products are indicative of disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC). In DIC, there is widespread clotting and subsequent consumption of clotting factors, leading to the formation of fibrin split products. A shortened prothrombin time (Choice A) is not typically seen in DIC as it indicates faster clotting, which is opposite to the pathophysiology of DIC. An increased fibrinogen level (Choice B) may be observed in the early stages of DIC due to the compensatory increase in production, but it is not a definitive indicator. Increased platelets (Choice D) may be seen in the early stages of DIC due to the body's attempt to compensate for clot formation, but it is not a specific finding for DIC.

3. The parents of a 1-month-old girl with Down syndrome are being taught by the nurse on how to maintain the child's good health. Which instruction would the nurse be least likely to include?

• A. Getting cervical radiographs between 3 and 5 years of age
• B. Adhering to the special dietary needs of the child
• C. Getting an echocardiogram before 3 months of age
• D. Monitoring for symptoms of respiratory infection

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B. While special dietary needs may be important, they are not typically a primary concern for a 1-month-old with Down syndrome compared to monitoring for congenital issues. Getting cervical radiographs, an echocardiogram, and monitoring for respiratory infections are more crucial in the early care of a child with Down syndrome. Cervical radiographs help in assessing for atlantoaxial instability, an echocardiogram is important for detecting congenital heart defects common in Down syndrome, and monitoring for respiratory infections is vital due to the increased risk in these children.

4. A newborn with an anorectal anomaly had an anoplasty performed. At the 2-week follow-up visit, a series of anal dilations are begun. What should the nurse recommend to the parents to help prevent the infant from becoming constipated?

• A. Use a soy formula.
• B. Breastfeed if possible.
• C. Administer a suppository nightly.
• D. Offer glucose water between feedings.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Breastfeeding is the best recommendation to help prevent constipation in infants. Breast milk is easily digestible and contains the right balance of nutrients, which can lead to softer stools, thus reducing the likelihood of constipation. Offering a soy formula (Choice A) may not necessarily prevent constipation as effectively as breast milk due to differences in nutrient composition. Administering a suppository nightly (Choice C) is not a routine measure for preventing constipation in infants and may not be suitable for regular use in this scenario. Offering glucose water (Choice D) between feedings is not recommended as it does not provide the necessary nutrients found in breast milk, which are essential for preventing constipation and promoting overall health in newborns.

5. 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?

• A. Most infants have slow respirations when they are uncomfortable.
• B. The respirations of young infants are irregular, so a drop in rate is unimportant.
• C. Vital signs that are outside the expected parameters are significant and should be documented.
• D. The respiratory tract of young infants is underdeveloped, and their respiratory rate is not significant.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: In this scenario, the correct answer is C. Any vital signs outside the expected range in an infant should be documented and reported, as they may indicate a developing condition that requires prompt attention. Choice A is incorrect because slow respirations in infants should not be dismissed without assessment and documentation. Choice B is incorrect because a drop in respiratory rate in this case was significant and should have been documented. Choice D is incorrect because even though infants have underdeveloped respiratory tracts, any abnormal respiratory rate should be taken seriously and documented for monitoring and intervention if necessary.

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