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. Which of the following signs or symptoms is more common in children than adults following head trauma?

• A. nausea and vomiting
• B. altered mental status
• C. tachycardia and diaphoresis
• D. changes in pupillary reaction

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Nausea and vomiting are more common in children following head trauma due to their higher risk of increased intracranial pressure. Children have less skull compliance and higher brain water content, making them more susceptible to developing symptoms like nausea and vomiting. Altered mental status (choice B) can occur in both children and adults but is not more common in children. Tachycardia and diaphoresis (choice C) are nonspecific and can occur in both age groups. Changes in pupillary reaction (choice D) are not typically more common in children following head trauma compared to adults.

3. A parent asks the nurse what to do when their toddler has temper tantrums. What play materials should the nurse suggest to offer the child as another way of expressing anger?

• A. Ball and bat
• B. Wad of clay
• C. Punching bag
• D. Pegs and pounding board

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Pegs and pounding boards are the most suitable choice for toddlers to express their emotions constructively. These materials provide a safe and acceptable way for toddlers to release anger and frustration through physical activity. Options A, B, and C may not be as effective or safe for toddlers dealing with temper tantrums. A ball and bat may encourage aggressive behavior rather than constructive expression. A wad of clay might not be ideal for channeling anger, and a punching bag can potentially promote violent behavior, which is not appropriate for toddlers.

4. Why should the nurse closely monitor the IV flow rate for a 5-month-old infant with severe diarrhea receiving IV fluids?

• A. Limiting output
• B. Replacing lost fluids
• C. Avoiding IV infiltration
• D. Preventing cardiac overload

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: Preventing cardiac overload. Infants are highly vulnerable to fluid overload, making it essential to carefully monitor IV flow rates to prevent complications such as cardiac overload. Rapid administration of IV fluids can lead to an excessive increase in circulating volume, potentially causing cardiac strain or heart failure in infants. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect. Monitoring the IV flow rate is not primarily aimed at limiting output, replacing lost fluids, or avoiding IV infiltration in this scenario. The key concern is to prevent the risk of cardiac overload due to the infant's susceptibility to fluid imbalances.

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

• A. Administering a bronchodilator
• B. Administering an antihistamine
• C. Administering a corticosteroid
• D. Administering oxygen

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.

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