Nursing Elites

1. A child is being cared for by a nurse and has rheumatic fever. Which of the following actions should the nurse plan to take?

• A. Administer aspirin to the child as prescribed based on the healthcare provider's instructions.
• B. Encourage adequate fluid intake for the child.
• C. Elevate the child's joints and provide warm compresses.
• D. Monitor the child's heart rate for dysrhythmias.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Rheumatic fever can lead to cardiac complications, such as dysrhythmias. Therefore, it is essential for the nurse to monitor the child's heart rate closely for any signs of dysrhythmias. This will help in early identification and prompt management of potential cardiac issues associated with rheumatic fever. Choices A, B, and C are not the priority actions in this scenario. While aspirin may be used in the treatment of rheumatic fever, monitoring for cardiac complications takes precedence. Encouraging fluid intake and providing warm compresses are helpful interventions but do not directly address the cardiac risks associated with rheumatic fever.

2. During the oliguric phase of acute kidney injury, what intervention should be included in the plan of care for a child?

• A. Administer a loop diuretic.
• B. Provide a low-sodium diet.
• C. Weigh the child weekly.
• D. Provide a high-protein diet.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: During the oliguric phase of acute kidney injury, the priority is managing fluid balance. Administering a loop diuretic is crucial to promote diuresis and reduce fluid retention, aiding in managing the condition effectively. Providing a low-sodium diet may be beneficial but is not the priority intervention during this phase. Weighing the child weekly is important for monitoring overall health but does not directly address the oliguric phase. Providing a high-protein diet is not typically recommended in acute kidney injury, especially during the oliguric phase, as it can put additional stress on the kidneys.

3. A nurse in an emergency department is caring for a school-age child who is experiencing an anaphylactic reaction. Which of the following is the priority action by the nurse?

• A. Elevate the head of the child's bed
• B. Insert a large-bore IV catheter for the child
• C. Determine the allergen that caused the child's reaction
• D. Administer IM epinephrine to the child

Correct answer: D

Rationale: In the management of anaphylaxis, the priority action for the nurse is to administer IM epinephrine to the child. Epinephrine is the first-line treatment for anaphylaxis as it helps reverse the severe manifestations of the reaction by constricting blood vessels, relaxing airway muscles, and decreasing hives and swelling. Elevating the head of the child's bed may be beneficial for respiratory distress but is not the priority over administering epinephrine. Inserting a large-bore IV catheter may be necessary for fluid resuscitation but is not the initial priority. Identifying the allergen is important for prevention and future management but is not the immediate action needed in the acute phase of an anaphylactic reaction.

4. A child with suspected bacterial meningitis is under the care of a nurse. Which action should the nurse prioritize?

• A. Administer antibiotics as prescribed.
• B. Maintain the child on NPO status.
• C. Monitor the child's intake and output.
• D. Implement seizure precautions.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The priority action for a child with suspected bacterial meningitis is to implement seizure precautions. Meningitis can lead to increased intracranial pressure, which may trigger seizures. By implementing seizure precautions, such as padding the side rails of the bed and ensuring a clear environment, the nurse aims to prevent injury during a potential seizure episode, prioritizing the child's safety. Administering antibiotics as prescribed is essential in treating bacterial meningitis, but seizure precautions take precedence due to the immediate risk of injury. Maintaining NPO status and monitoring intake and output are important aspects of care but are not the priority when considering the risk of seizures.

5. A toddler has minimal change nephrotic syndrome (MCNS) and 3+ pitting edema. Which intervention should the nurse include in the plan of care?

• A. Encourage an increased fluid intake for the toddler
• B. Place the child in an Airborne infection isolation room
• C. Increase the toddler's dietary sodium intake
• D. Administer corticosteroids to the toddler

Correct answer: D

Rationale: In managing minimal change nephrotic syndrome (MCNS) in children with pitting edema, corticosteroids are the mainstay of treatment. Corticosteroids help reduce inflammation and decrease proteinuria, addressing the underlying cause of MCNS. Therefore, the nurse should prioritize administering the prescribed corticosteroids to the toddler as part of the plan of care.

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