Nursing Elites

1. When assessing a child with suspected bacterial meningitis, what clinical manifestation is the nurse likely to observe?

• A. Photophobia
• B. High fever
• C. Rash
• D. Nasal congestion

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: High fever. In bacterial meningitis, a high fever is a common clinical manifestation due to the body's inflammatory response to the infection. While photophobia (choice A) is also a common symptom in meningitis, it is not as specific as a high fever. Rash (choice C) is more commonly associated with viral infections or other conditions, rather than bacterial meningitis. Nasal congestion (choice D) is not a typical clinical manifestation of bacterial meningitis and is more commonly seen in respiratory infections. Therefore, when assessing a child with suspected bacterial meningitis, the nurse is most likely to observe a high fever as a key clinical manifestation.

2. Which of the following parameters would be LEAST reliable when assessing the perfusion status of a 2-year-old child with possible shock?

• A. distal capillary refill
• B. systolic blood pressure
• C. skin color and temperature
• D. presence of peripheral pulses

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Systolic blood pressure is the least reliable parameter when assessing the perfusion status of a 2-year-old child with possible shock. In pediatric patients, especially young children, blood pressure may not decrease until significant shock has already occurred, making it a late indicator of inadequate perfusion. Depending solely on systolic blood pressure to evaluate perfusion status in this age group can lead to a delay in appropriate interventions. Distal capillary refill time, skin color, and temperature changes, and the presence of peripheral pulses are more sensitive and early indicators of perfusion status in pediatric patients. Monitoring distal capillary refill provides information on peripheral perfusion, while changes in skin color and temperature can signal circulatory compromise. Evaluating the presence or absence of peripheral pulses offers insights into vascular perfusion. These parameters offer more reliable and prompt feedback on a child's perfusion status compared to systolic blood pressure.

3. A premature infant with respiratory distress syndrome (RDS) receives artificial surfactant. How does the nurse explain surfactant therapy to the parents?

• A. Surfactant improves the ability of your baby’s lungs to exchange oxygen and carbon dioxide.
• B. The drug prevents your baby from requiring excessive sedation.
• C. Surfactant is used to reduce episodes of periodic apnea.
• D. Your baby needs this medication to combat a potential respiratory tract infection.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A. Surfactant therapy is explained to parents as a treatment that enhances the lungs' ability to exchange oxygen and carbon dioxide. This is essential for premature infants with respiratory distress syndrome (RDS) as it helps improve their respiratory function. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because surfactant therapy primarily focuses on addressing lung function and is not related to sedation, apnea reduction, or fighting respiratory tract infections.

4. A 2-year-old child is admitted to the hospital with a diagnosis of Kawasaki disease. What is the primary goal of therapy during the acute phase?

• A. Preventing coronary artery aneurysms
• B. Reducing fever
• C. Improving cardiac function
• D. Preventing dehydration

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The primary goal of therapy during the acute phase of Kawasaki disease is to prevent coronary artery aneurysms, which are a serious complication of this condition. Coronary artery aneurysms can lead to long-term cardiovascular issues, making prevention crucial. While reducing fever and improving cardiac function are important aspects of managing Kawasaki disease, the primary focus in the acute phase is on preventing coronary artery aneurysms. Dehydration prevention is also essential but not the primary goal during the acute phase of this disease.

5. In a case where a limb is protruding from a mother's vagina during active labor, how should this condition be managed?

• A. Positioning the mother in a semi-Fowler's position, administering oxygen, and providing transport
• B. Positioning the mother in a head-down position with her hips elevated, administering oxygen, and providing transport
• C. Applying gentle traction to the protruding limb to remove pressure of the fetus from the umbilical cord
• D. Giving the mother 100% oxygen and attempting to manipulate the protruding limb so that delivery can occur

Correct answer: B

Rationale: When a limb is protruding from the vagina during active labor, the appropriate management includes positioning the mother in a head-down position with her hips elevated. This position helps relieve pressure on the umbilical cord, reducing the risk of compromising fetal blood flow and oxygenation. Administering oxygen is essential to maintain oxygenation levels for both the mother and the fetus. Providing transport to a healthcare facility equipped to manage this obstetric emergency is crucial for ensuring a safe delivery. Choice A is incorrect because a semi-Fowler's position does not effectively relieve pressure on the umbilical cord. Choice C is incorrect as applying traction to the protruding limb can lead to injury or complications for both the mother and the fetus. Choice D is incorrect because attempting to manipulate the limb without proper positioning and preparation can worsen the situation and increase risks during delivery.

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