a nurse is assessing a 3 month old infant with suspected pyloric stenosis what clinical manifestation is the nurse likely to observe
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HESI LPN

Pediatric HESI 2023

1. A healthcare provider is assessing a 3-month-old infant with suspected pyloric stenosis. What clinical manifestation is the healthcare provider likely to observe?

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Projectile vomiting is a classic clinical manifestation of pyloric stenosis in infants. This occurs due to the narrowing of the pyloric sphincter, leading to the forceful expulsion of gastric contents in a projectile manner. Diarrhea (choice B) is not typically associated with pyloric stenosis. Constipation (choice C) is also not a common symptom of this condition. Abdominal distension (choice D) may occur in pyloric stenosis but is not as specific or characteristic as projectile vomiting in diagnosing this condition.

2. A parent arrives in the emergency clinic with a 3-month-old baby who says, “My baby stopped breathing for a while.” The infant continues to have difficulty breathing, with prolonged periods of apnea. Which assessment data should alert the nurse to suspect shaken baby syndrome (SBS)?

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Retractions and the use of accessory respiratory muscles can be signs of respiratory distress, which may indicate trauma such as shaken baby syndrome (SBS). Shaken baby syndrome can result in brain injury and respiratory compromise, leading to breathing difficulties. Choices A, B, and C are less likely to be associated with SBS. Birth before 32 weeks’ gestation is more related to prematurity rather than SBS. The lack of stridor and adventitious breath sounds, as well as previous episodes of apnea lasting 10 to 15 seconds, are not specific indicators of SBS.

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

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.

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

Correct answer: C

Rationale: In infants, monitoring IV flow rates is essential to prevent fluid overload, not cardiac overload. Excessive fluid administration can lead to complications such as pulmonary edema or congestive heart failure. It is crucial to maintain a balance between providing adequate hydration and avoiding fluid overload to prevent adverse outcomes. Options A, B, and D are incorrect because the primary concern is to prevent complications related to excess fluid rather than focusing on electrolyte balance, dehydration prevention, or avoiding cardiac overload.

5. A group of students is reviewing information about the endocrine system in infants and children. The students demonstrate understanding of the information when they state:

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct statement is that infants may have difficulty balancing glucose and electrolytes because their endocrine systems are immature. Newborns have developing endocrine glands that are not yet fully functional, leading to challenges in maintaining glucose and electrolyte balance. Choice A is incorrect as endocrine glands start developing in the first trimester, not the third trimester. Choice B is incorrect as endocrine glands are not fully functional at birth. Choice D is incorrect because while a child’s endocrine system indeed plays a vital role in growth and development, the specific focus of the question is on the challenges infants face due to immature endocrine glands.

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