Nursing Elites

1. A nurse is caring for an infant with intractable vomiting. For what complication is it most important for the nurse to assess?

• A. Acidosis
• B. Alkalosis
• C. Hyperkalemia
• D. Hypernatremia

Correct answer: B

Rationale: When an infant experiences intractable vomiting, it can lead to the loss of stomach acids, resulting in metabolic alkalosis. Alkalosis is characterized by elevated blood pH and can lead to serious complications. Assessing for alkalosis is essential in this scenario to monitor and manage the infant's condition. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because in this context, the primary concern is the metabolic imbalance caused by excessive vomiting, leading to alkalosis rather than acidosis, hyperkalemia, or hypernatremia.

2. The healthcare provider is caring for an infant with suspected pyloric stenosis. Which clinical manifestation would indicate pyloric stenosis?

• A. abdominal rigidity and pain on palpation
• B. rounded abdomen and hypoactive bowel sounds
• C. visible peristalsis and weight loss
• D. distention of lower abdomen and constipation

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Visible peristalsis and weight loss are classic clinical manifestations of pyloric stenosis. Visible peristalsis refers to the wave-like movements in the abdomen caused by the stomach trying to empty into the intestines due to the obstruction at the pylorus. Weight loss is often seen due to inadequate feeding and vomiting associated with this condition. Choices A, B, and D are not typical of pyloric stenosis. Abdominal rigidity and pain on palpation are more indicative of conditions like peritonitis. A rounded abdomen and hypoactive bowel sounds are more suggestive of conditions like constipation or bowel obstruction. Distention of the lower abdomen and constipation are not specific to pyloric stenosis and may be seen in various gastrointestinal issues.

3. A 16-year-old is suspected of having type 1 diabetes mellitus. Which clinical manifestation may be present?

• A. moist skin
• B. weight gain
• C. fluid overload
• D. poor wound healing

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Poor wound healing is a common clinical manifestation of type 1 diabetes mellitus. High blood glucose levels in diabetes can impair the body's ability to heal wounds effectively. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect. Moist skin is not a typical clinical manifestation of type 1 diabetes; instead, skin may become dry due to dehydration. Weight gain is unlikely as type 1 diabetes is characterized by weight loss. Fluid overload is also uncommon in type 1 diabetes, which is more commonly associated with dehydration due to frequent urination.

4. A parent of an 11-month-old infant who has a cleft palate asks the nurse why it was recommended that closure of the palate should be done before the age of 2. How should the nurse respond?

• A. “After age 2, surgery is frightening and should be avoided if possible.”
• B. “Eruption of the 2-year molars often complicates the surgical procedure.”
• C. “As your child gets older, the palate gets wider and more difficult to repair.”
• D. “Surgery should be performed before your child starts to use faulty speech patterns.”

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Closure of the cleft palate is recommended before the age of 2 to prevent the development of faulty speech patterns. Performing surgery at a younger age helps avoid speech difficulties that may arise if the repair is delayed. Choice A is incorrect as it focuses on fear, not the developmental aspect. Choice B is incorrect as the eruption of molars is not the primary reason for early surgery. Choice C is incorrect because the difficulty of repair is not solely related to the width of the palate but also to speech development.

5. You are caring for a 6-year-old child with a possible fractured left arm and have reason to believe that the child was abused. How should you manage this situation?

• A. Inform the parents of your suspicions.
• B. Call the police so the parents can be arrested.
• C. Advise the parents that the child needs to be transported.
• D. Transport the child to the hospital regardless of the parents' wishes.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: In cases where child abuse is suspected, it is crucial to prioritize the safety and well-being of the child. Advising the parents that the child needs to be transported allows for the child to receive necessary medical care without immediate confrontation. Calling the police to have the parents arrested (Choice B) may escalate the situation and should only be done after ensuring the child's safety. Informing the parents of suspicions (Choice A) may potentially place the child at further risk if the parents are the abusers. Transporting the child to the hospital regardless of the parents' wishes (Choice D) could lead to legal and ethical complications; it is important to involve the appropriate authorities and handle the situation with sensitivity and care.

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