Nursing Elites

1. A child is being assessed for suspected intussusception. What clinical manifestation is the nurse likely to observe?

• A. Projectile vomiting
• B. Currant jelly stools
• C. Abdominal distension
• D. Constipation

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct clinical manifestation that a nurse is likely to observe in a child with suspected intussusception is abdominal distension. Intussusception is a medical emergency where a part of the intestine folds into itself, causing obstruction. Abdominal distension is a common symptom due to the obstruction and the build-up of gases and fluids. While currant jelly stools (Choice B) are a classic sign of intussusception, they are typically seen in later stages of the condition and may not be present during the initial assessment. Projectile vomiting (Choice A) is more commonly associated with conditions like pyloric stenosis. Constipation (Choice D) is not a typical manifestation of intussusception; the condition usually presents with severe colicky abdominal pain and possible passage of blood and mucus in stools.

2. A child with a diagnosis of pyloric stenosis is scheduled for surgery. What preoperative intervention is important for the nurse to perform?

• A. Administering intravenous fluids
• B. Monitoring for signs of infection
• C. Monitoring for signs of dehydration
• D. Monitoring for signs of pain

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct preoperative intervention for a child with pyloric stenosis is to monitor for signs of dehydration. Pyloric stenosis can lead to vomiting, which can result in dehydration. Monitoring for signs of dehydration is crucial to ensure the child's fluid balance is maintained. Administering intravenous fluids, although important for managing dehydration and electrolyte imbalances, would typically be done postoperatively rather than as a preoperative intervention. Monitoring for signs of infection is important but not specific to the preoperative period for pyloric stenosis. Monitoring for signs of pain is also important but may not be the most critical preoperative intervention in this scenario.

3. Parents of a sick infant talk with a nurse about their baby. One parent says, “I am so upset; I didn’t realize our baby was ill.” What major indication of illness in an infant should the nurse explain to the parent?

• A. Grunting respirations
• B. Excessive perspiration
• C. Longer periods of sleep
• D. Crying immediately after feedings

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Longer periods of sleep than usual can be a sign of illness in infants. When an infant sleeps more than usual, it may indicate that the baby is conserving energy due to an underlying condition. Grunting respirations (choice A) can be a sign of respiratory distress, excessive perspiration (choice B) may indicate overheating or fever, and crying immediately after feedings (choice D) can be a sign of gastrointestinal discomfort, such as colic or reflux. However, in this scenario, the emphasis is on changes in sleep patterns as a potential indicator of illness.

4. An infant who had cardiac surgery for a congenital defect is to be discharged. What should the nurse emphasize to the parents regarding administering the prescribed antibiotic?

• A. Give the antibiotic between feedings.
• B. Ensure that the antibiotic is administered as prescribed.
• C. Shake the bottle thoroughly before giving the antibiotic.
• D. Keep the antibiotic in the refrigerator after the bottle has been opened.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: 'Ensure that the antibiotic is administered as prescribed.' It is crucial for the parents to follow the prescribed antibiotic regimen to prevent infections and promote proper healing following cardiac surgery. Option A is incorrect because the timing of antibiotic administration may vary depending on the specific medication and instructions. Option C is not necessary and could potentially affect the antibiotic's effectiveness. Option D is not relevant to the administration of the antibiotic and does not ensure proper usage.

5. When developing the plan of care for a child with burns requiring fluid replacement therapy, what information would the nurse expect to include?

• A. Administration of colloid initially followed by a crystalloid
• B. Determination of fluid replacement based on the type of burn
• C. Administration of most of the volume during the first 8 hours
• D. Monitoring of hourly urine output to achieve less than 1 mL/kg/hr

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C. In fluid replacement therapy for burns, the majority of the volume should be administered within the first 8 hours to prevent shock and maintain perfusion. Choice A is incorrect because crystalloids are typically administered first in fluid resuscitation for burns. Choice B is incorrect as fluid replacement in burn patients is primarily determined by the extent of the burn injury rather than the type of burn. Choice D is incorrect as the goal for hourly urine output in burn patients is generally higher, aiming for 1-2 mL/kg/hr in children to ensure adequate renal perfusion and prevent dehydration.

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