Nursing Elites

1. A child with a diagnosis of congenital heart disease is admitted to the hospital. What should the nurse include in the child’s care plan?

• A. Monitoring fluid status
• B. Encouraging activity
• C. Promoting a high-calorie diet
• D. Maintaining oxygen therapy

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Monitoring fluid status is crucial for a child with congenital heart disease because these children are at risk of fluid overload which can worsen their condition. Monitoring fluid intake and output helps prevent complications like congestive heart failure. Encouraging activity (Choice B) should be individualized based on the child's condition and tolerance, as excessive activity can strain the heart. Promoting a high-calorie diet (Choice C) is not typically recommended for children with congenital heart disease unless specifically indicated, as excessive weight gain can worsen their cardiac function. Maintaining oxygen therapy (Choice D) may be necessary in some cases, but monitoring fluid status is a more fundamental aspect of care for children with congenital heart disease.

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

• A. Use a soy formula if necessary.
• B. Breastfeed if possible.
• C. Avoid administering a suppository nightly.
• D. Do not offer glucose water between feedings.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Breastfeeding is recommended to help prevent constipation in infants due to the easily digestible nature of breast milk, which often leads to softer stools. Breastfeeding is preferred over formula feeding as it provides optimal nutrition for the infant's digestive system. Choice A, using a soy formula if necessary, may be considered only if there are specific dietary concerns or allergies; however, breast milk is still the preferred option. Choice C, avoiding administering a suppository nightly, is correct as it is not a routine method for preventing constipation in infants and may not be appropriate without medical advice. Choice D, not offering glucose water between feedings, is recommended as it may not address the root cause of constipation and may introduce unnecessary sugar to the infant's diet.

3. Which cardiac defects are associated with tetralogy of Fallot?

• A. Right ventricular hypertrophy, atrial and ventricular defects, and mitral valve stenosis
• B. Origin of the aorta from the right ventricle and of the pulmonary artery from the left ventricle
• C. Right ventricular hypertrophy, ventricular septal defect, pulmonic stenosis, and overriding aorta
• D. Altered connection between the pulmonary artery and the aorta, right ventricular hypertrophy, and an atrial septal defect

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Tetralogy of Fallot is characterized by a combination of four specific cardiac defects: right ventricular hypertrophy, ventricular septal defect, pulmonic stenosis, and overriding aorta. Choice A is incorrect as it includes mitral valve stenosis, which is not typically part of tetralogy of Fallot. Choice B describes transposition of the great arteries rather than tetralogy of Fallot. Choice D includes an atrial septal defect, which is not part of the classic presentation of tetralogy of Fallot.

4. A child with a diagnosis of leukemia is receiving chemotherapy. What is the most important nursing intervention?

• A. Monitor for signs of infection
• B. Monitor for signs of bleeding
• C. Monitor for signs of dehydration
• D. Monitor for signs of pain

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The most important nursing intervention for a child with leukemia receiving chemotherapy is to monitor for signs of infection. Chemotherapy suppresses the immune system, putting the child at a higher risk of developing infections. Early detection and prompt treatment of infections are crucial to prevent complications and improve outcomes. Monitoring for signs of bleeding (choice B), dehydration (choice C), and pain (choice D) are also important aspects of care, but in this scenario, the priority is to prevent and manage infections due to the compromised immune system.

5. A child has been diagnosed with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). What position should the nurse recommend the child be placed in after eating?

• A. Supine
• B. Prone
• C. Semi-Fowler's
• D. Trendelenburg

Correct answer: C

Rationale: After eating, it is beneficial to place a child with GERD in a semi-Fowler's position. This position helps prevent reflux by keeping the child's head elevated above the stomach, reducing the chances of gastric contents flowing back into the esophagus. Placing the child supine (lying flat on their back) can worsen reflux symptoms by allowing gravity to work against the natural flow of gastric contents. Prone position (lying on the stomach) is not recommended due to the increased risk of aspiration. Trendelenburg position (feet elevated above head) is also inappropriate as it can lead to increased pressure on the abdomen, potentially worsening reflux symptoms.

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