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. A patient is receiving glucocorticoids for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis. The patient complains of having a headache. Which ordered medication should the nurse administer?

• A. Aspirin
• B. Acetaminophen
• C. Ibuprofen
• D. Naproxen Sodium (Aleve)

Correct answer: B

Rationale: When a patient is already receiving glucocorticoids for rheumatoid arthritis and complains of a headache, it is essential to consider the potential interactions and side effects of additional medications. Aspirin and NSAIDs like ibuprofen and naproxen sodium can increase the risk of gastrointestinal irritation and ulceration when used concurrently with glucocorticoids. Acetaminophen is a safer choice in this scenario for managing the patient's headache without exacerbating the gastrointestinal issues associated with the use of glucocorticoids. Acetaminophen does not have the same gastrointestinal side effects as aspirin, ibuprofen, or naproxen sodium, making it the most appropriate option for headache relief in this case.

3. A parent of a child with cystic fibrosis is being taught about dietary guidelines. Which statement by the parent indicates an understanding of the teaching?

• A. My child should eat a high-calorie, high-protein diet.
• B. My child should avoid eating eggs.
• C. My child should follow a low-fat, low-sodium diet.
• D. My child should follow a high-fiber, high-protein diet.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A. For a child with cystic fibrosis, a high-calorie, high-protein diet is recommended to meet the increased metabolic needs associated with the condition. The protein helps with growth and repair, while the extra calories help compensate for malabsorption and increased energy requirements. Choice B is incorrect because eggs are a good source of protein and essential nutrients unless the child has a specific allergy. Choice C is incorrect as a low-fat, low-sodium diet is not typically recommended for children with cystic fibrosis who need higher calorie and fat intake. Choice D is incorrect because while a high-protein diet is beneficial, a high-fiber diet may not be suitable for a child with cystic fibrosis due to potential gastrointestinal issues.

4. During a home care visit for an infant diagnosed with gastroesophageal reflux, which parental action observed requires intervention by the nurse?

• A. The infant's formula is mixed with rice cereal.
• B. The mother positions the infant in a high Fowler position while feeding.
• C. After feeding, the infant is placed in a car seat.
• D. The mother administers ranitidine (Zantac) to the infant using a syringe.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Placing an infant diagnosed with gastroesophageal reflux in a car seat after feeding can increase the risk of reflux and aspiration. The semi-upright or high Fowler position is recommended to help reduce reflux symptoms during feeding. Adding rice cereal to formula can help thicken it and reduce reflux episodes. Administering ranitidine using a syringe is a common method of oral medication administration. Therefore, the action of placing the infant in a car seat after feeding is the one that requires intervention due to the increased risk it poses.

5. A caregiver is providing teaching about car seat use to the mother of a six-month-old infant. Which of the following statements by the mother indicates an understanding of the teaching?

• A. I should secure the car seat using lower anchors and tethers instead of the seat belt
• B. I should position the car seat harness one inch above my baby's shoulders
• C. I will make sure that the car seat is placed at a 90-degree angle
• D. I will pad my baby's car seat with a blanket for traveling long distances

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A. Lower anchors and tethers, known as the LATCH child safety seat system, should be used to secure an infant's car seat in the vehicle. This system provides a safer and more secure way of installing the car seat compared to using the seat belt alone. Using the lower anchors and tethers ensures proper installation and reduces the risk of car seat movement during travel, providing optimal protection for the infant. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect. Choice B is incorrect because the car seat harness should be positioned at or below the baby's shoulders, not above. Choice C is incorrect because the car seat should be positioned at the correct recline angle recommended by the car seat manufacturer, which may not necessarily be 90 degrees. Choice D is incorrect because adding padding like a blanket to the car seat is not recommended as it can interfere with the proper fit and function of the car seat, potentially compromising the safety of the infant.

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