Nursing Elites

1. During an assessment, an infant is suspected to have intussusception. Which of the following findings should the nurse expect?

• A. Currant jelly stools
• B. Projectile vomiting
• C. Scaphoid abdomen
• D. Frequent stools

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Intussusception is a condition where one segment of the intestine telescopes into another, causing obstruction. The classic presentation includes currant jelly stools, which are a mixture of blood and mucus due to the sloughing of the intestinal mucosa. This finding is a result of the compromised blood supply to the affected area and is a key characteristic associated with intussusception.

2. A healthcare provider is assessing a child with acute lymphocytic leukemia. Which of the following findings is the priority for the healthcare provider to report?

• A. Bruising
• B. Petechiae
• C. Elevated WBC count
• D. Elevated platelet count

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The priority finding to report for a child with acute lymphocytic leukemia is petechiae. Petechiae indicate a low platelet count, which increases the risk of bleeding. Therefore, the healthcare provider should promptly report petechiae to initiate appropriate interventions to prevent bleeding complications.

3. What is the most appropriate nursing consideration for a patient who is prescribed verapamil and digoxin?

• A. Restrict intake of oral fluids and high-fiber foods
• B. Take an apical pulse for 30 seconds before administration
• C. Notify the healthcare provider of nausea, vomiting, and visual changes
• D. Hold the medications if the heart rate is greater than 110 bpm

Correct answer: C

Rationale: When a patient is prescribed verapamil and digoxin, it is crucial to monitor for signs of digoxin toxicity due to the potential interaction between these medications. Verapamil can elevate digoxin blood serum levels, increasing the risk of toxicity. Symptoms of digoxin toxicity include nausea, vomiting, and visual changes. Therefore, the most appropriate nursing consideration is to notify the healthcare provider of these symptoms. Restricting intake of oral fluids and high-fiber foods is not a specific consideration related to this medication combination. Before administering digoxin, it is essential to take an apical pulse for a full minute, not just 30 seconds, to ensure accuracy. Additionally, holding the medications if the heart rate exceeds 110 bpm is not a typical response to the combination of verapamil and digoxin, which can cause bradycardia rather than tachycardia.

4. A patient taking isotretinoin (Accutane) for acne vulgaris. Which statement indicates that the patient teaching has been effective?

• A. I should use a reliable form of birth control.
• B. I will stop taking the drug if my skin is dry.
• C. It is important to increase intake of vitamin A.
• D. I do not need to use sunblock while taking Accutane.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A. Isotretinoin is highly teratogenic, which means it can cause birth defects. Therefore, it is crucial for patients, especially females of childbearing potential, to use effective forms of birth control to prevent pregnancy while taking this medication. This is a key component of patient teaching to ensure the safe use of isotretinoin. Choice B is incorrect because discontinuing isotretinoin abruptly can lead to a flare-up of acne. Choice C is incorrect because increasing vitamin A intake can be harmful due to the risk of hypervitaminosis A. Choice D is incorrect because isotretinoin makes the skin more sensitive to sunlight, so sunblock is essential to prevent sunburn and skin damage.

5. A parent of a child with cerebral palsy is being taught about home care by a healthcare provider. Which statement by the parent indicates an understanding of the teaching?

• A. I will perform range-of-motion exercises twice a day.
• B. I will apply a heating pad on my child's legs to reduce spasms.
• C. I will allow my child to rest in a recliner for 1 hour each day.
• D. I will use wrist splints to maintain alignment.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Using wrist splints can help maintain alignment and prevent contractures in a child with cerebral palsy. This intervention is crucial in managing the condition and supporting the child's mobility and function.

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