a child with a diagnosis of gastroenteritis is admitted to the hospital what is the priority nursing intervention
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Nursing Elites

HESI LPN

Pediatric HESI Practice Questions

1. A child with a diagnosis of gastroenteritis is admitted to the hospital. What is the priority nursing intervention?

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is monitoring fluid and electrolyte balance. Gastroenteritis is characterized by inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract, leading to fluid loss. Maintaining fluid and electrolyte balance is essential in managing gastroenteritis to prevent dehydration and electrolyte imbalances. Encouraging regular exercise (Choice B) is not a priority in the acute phase of gastroenteritis when the focus is on rehydration and symptom management. Administering antipyretics (Choice C) may be considered for fever management but is not the priority over monitoring fluid and electrolyte balance. Administering antibiotics (Choice D) is not routinely indicated for viral gastroenteritis, which is a common cause of the condition in children.

2. When administering IV fluids to a dehydrated infant, what intervention is most important at this time?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Monitoring the intravenous drop rate is the most crucial intervention when administering IV fluids to a dehydrated infant. This ensures that the correct amount of fluids is being delivered to the infant at the appropriate rate. While continuing the prescribed flow rate (Choice A) may be important, it does not allow for real-time adjustments that may be necessary during the infusion. Calculating the total necessary intake (Choice C) should have been determined before initiating IV therapy. Maintaining the fluid at body temperature (Choice D) is important for patient comfort but is not as critical as ensuring the proper administration of fluids.

3. According to Friedman's structural functional theory, what defines the family component of meeting the love and belonging needs of each member?

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Friedman's structural functional theory outlines different functions of a family. The affective function, as defined by Friedman, pertains to meeting the love and belonging needs of each member. This includes emotional support, nurturing, and creating a sense of security within the family unit. Choices B, C, and D do not specifically address the affective function described in Friedman's theory. Choice B focuses on socialization and preparing children for adult roles, choice C relates to the economic function of a family, and choice D pertains to the instrumental function of providing physical care for health.

4. A parent calls the clinic because their child has ingested a small amount of household bleach. What should the nurse advise?

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is to advise the parent to call the poison control center. When a child ingests household bleach, it is important to seek guidance from professionals who can provide specific and immediate advice on managing the situation. Administering activated charcoal (Choice A) is not recommended for household bleach ingestion. Inducing vomiting immediately (Choice B) can lead to further complications and is not the recommended first response. Taking the child to the emergency department (Choice D) should be done based on the advice received from the poison control center.

5. The parents of an infant ask the nurse why their baby is scheduled to receive the intramuscular polio vaccine rather than the oral vaccine. What is the nurse’s best response?

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends the intramuscular polio vaccine because it has a better safety profile compared to the oral vaccine. Choice B is incorrect because the AAP specifically recommends the intramuscular vaccine over the oral vaccine. Choice C is incorrect as cost is not the primary reason for preferring the intramuscular vaccine. Choice D is incorrect as the recommendation is based on safety rather than the immunocompromised status of the infant or family members.

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