Nursing Elites

1. A healthcare professional is assessing a child with suspected pertussis. What clinical manifestation is the healthcare professional likely to observe?

• A. Dry, hacking cough
• B. Inspiratory stridor
• C. Nasal congestion
• D. Severe coughing spells

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Severe coughing spells are a hallmark clinical manifestation of pertussis. Pertussis, also known as whooping cough, is characterized by paroxysms of rapid, consecutive coughs followed by a distinctive 'whoop' sound as the patient gasps for air. This intense coughing can lead to vomiting, exhaustion, and sometimes a characteristic 'whoop' sound. Inspiratory stridor (Choice B) is more commonly associated with croup, not pertussis. Nasal congestion (Choice C) is not a typical feature of pertussis. While a cough is present in pertussis, the specific type of cough described in Choice A (dry, hacking cough) is not the predominant feature observed in pertussis.

2. A 1-week-old infant has been in the pediatric unit for 18 hours following placement of a spica cast. The nurse observes a respiratory rate of fewer than 24 breaths/min. No other changes are noted. Because the infant is apparently well, the nurse does not report or document the slow respiratory rate. Several hours later, the infant experiences severe respiratory distress, and emergency care is necessary. What should be considered if legal action is taken?

• A. Most infants have slow respirations when they are uncomfortable.
• B. The respiratory rates of young infants are irregular, so a drop in rate is unimportant.
• C. Vital signs that are outside the expected parameters are significant and should be documented.
• D. The respiratory tract of young infants is underdeveloped, and their respiratory rate is not significant.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: In this scenario, the nurse failed to report or document the slow respiratory rate of the infant, which later led to severe respiratory distress. It is crucial to understand that any vital signs outside the expected range in an infant should be documented and reported promptly. This documentation is vital for monitoring the infant's condition, identifying potential issues, and ensuring timely intervention if needed. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because they downplay the significance of abnormal vital signs and fail to emphasize the importance of documentation and reporting in infant care.

3. The school nurse is presenting a class to a group of students about common overuse disorders. Which disorder would the school nurse include?

• A. Dislocated radial head
• B. Transient synovitis of the hip
• C. Osgood-Schlatter disease
• D. Scoliosis

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Osgood-Schlatter disease is a common overuse injury that specifically affects the knee. It is characterized by inflammation of the patellar ligament at the tibial tuberosity due to repetitive strain on the growth plate during activities such as running and jumping. Dislocated radial head (Choice A) is not an overuse disorder but rather an injury usually seen in young children. Transient synovitis of the hip (Choice B) is an acute hip condition and not typically classified as an overuse disorder. Scoliosis (Choice D) is a condition characterized by an abnormal lateral curvature of the spine and is not considered an overuse disorder.

4. A parent asks the nurse what to do for their child who has an earache and fever. What should the nurse suggest?

• A. Applying a warm compress to the affected ear
• B. Giving the child a cold drink
• C. Administering acetaminophen
• D. Taking the child to the emergency department

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Applying a warm compress to the affected ear is a recommended home remedy for earaches as it can help reduce pain and discomfort. The warmth can also help improve circulation and promote drainage if there is fluid buildup. Giving a cold drink (Choice B) is not typically beneficial for earaches and fever. Administering acetaminophen (Choice C) can help reduce fever and alleviate pain, but addressing the earache directly with a warm compress is a more targeted approach. Taking the child to the emergency department (Choice D) is not necessary for a common earache unless there are severe symptoms or complications present.

5. A child with a diagnosis of diabetes insipidus is admitted to the hospital. What is the priority nursing intervention?

• A. Administering insulin
• B. Monitoring fluid balance
• C. Administering diuretics
• D. Monitoring vital signs

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is monitoring fluid balance. In a child with diabetes insipidus, the primary concern is excessive urination and fluid loss, which can lead to dehydration. Monitoring fluid balance is crucial to prevent dehydration and maintain electrolyte balance. Administering insulin (Choice A) is not indicated in diabetes insipidus, as this condition is not related to insulin deficiency. Administering diuretics (Choice C) should be avoided as it can exacerbate fluid loss in a child already at risk for dehydration. While monitoring vital signs (Choice D) is important, the priority intervention in this situation is monitoring fluid balance to prevent complications associated with dehydration.

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