Nursing Elites

1. A nurse in an emergency department is caring for a school-age child who is experiencing an anaphylactic reaction. Which of the following is the priority action by the nurse?

• A. Elevate the head of the child's bed
• B. Insert a large-bore IV catheter for the child
• C. Determine the allergen that caused the child's reaction
• D. Administer IM epinephrine to the child

Correct answer: D

Rationale: In the management of anaphylaxis, the priority action for the nurse is to administer IM epinephrine to the child. Epinephrine is the first-line treatment for anaphylaxis as it helps reverse the severe manifestations of the reaction by constricting blood vessels, relaxing airway muscles, and decreasing hives and swelling. Elevating the head of the child's bed may be beneficial for respiratory distress but is not the priority over administering epinephrine. Inserting a large-bore IV catheter may be necessary for fluid resuscitation but is not the initial priority. Identifying the allergen is important for prevention and future management but is not the immediate action needed in the acute phase of an anaphylactic reaction.

2. The healthcare provider is caring for a 9-month-old infant who just returned from the postanesthesia care unit (PACU) after a shunt placement for hydrocephalus. Which healthcare provider prescription should the nurse question?

• A. Vital signs and neurologic checks hourly
• B. Small, frequent formula feedings
• C. Elevate the head of the bed
• D. Daily head circumference measurements

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Elevating the head of the bed in a child with hydrocephalus can potentially increase intracranial pressure. This can be counterproductive and may lead to complications after shunt placement surgery. Keeping the head of the bed flat or slightly elevated is often recommended to optimize cerebral perfusion and reduce the risk of increased intracranial pressure.

3. When discussing the correction of hypospadias in a newborn, what does the nurse explain about this condition?

• A. No intervention is required as the defect will correct itself over time.
• B. Surgical repair of hypospadias is typically performed before 18 months of age.
• C. Corrective surgery is commonly postponed until preschool age.
• D. Repairing the defect does not increase the risk of testicular cancer.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Hypospadias is a congenital condition where the opening of the urethra is on the underside of the penis. Surgical repair is the primary treatment for hypospadias and is usually recommended to be done before 18 months of age. This timing is preferred for optimal cosmetic and functional outcomes. Waiting until preschool age for corrective surgery may increase the complexity of the procedure and potential complications. Correcting hypospadias does not impact the risk of testicular cancer.

4. The healthcare provider is providing care to a child who was treated with aspirin during a viral infection. Which clinical manifestations should cause the healthcare provider concern?

• A. Nausea, vomiting, and confusion
• B. Headache, vomiting, and seizures
• C. Sore throat, moist respirations, and cough
• D. Fever, rash, and photophobia

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The symptoms of nausea, vomiting, and confusion are concerning as they are indicative of Reye's syndrome, a rare but serious condition associated with aspirin use in children during viral illnesses. Reye's syndrome can lead to severe complications, including brain and liver damage, hence prompt recognition and management are crucial.

5. A nurse is caring for a child who has a new diagnosis of osteomyelitis. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

• A. Administer aspirin for pain.
• B. Apply ice to the affected area.
• C. Monitor the child�s weight daily.
• D. Limit the child's activity.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The nurse should monitor the child�s weight daily to assess the effectiveness of treatment for osteomyelitis and detect potential complications.

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