a nurse is discussing the care of an infant with colic with the parents what should the nurse explain is the cause of colicky behavior
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Nursing Elites

HESI LPN

Pediatrics HESI 2023

1. A healthcare provider is discussing the care of an infant with colic with the parents. What should the healthcare provider explain is the cause of colicky behavior?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Colicky behavior in infants is primarily characterized by paroxysmal abdominal pain, resulting in excessive crying and fussiness. The pain episodes are often unpredictable and can be distressing for both the infant and the parents. Inadequate peristalsis (Choice A) refers to weak or ineffective bowel movements and is not the typical cause of colic. While some infants may experience colic due to an allergic response to certain proteins in milk (Choice C), this is not the primary cause of colic behavior in all infants. Choice D, a protective mechanism designed to eliminate foreign proteins, is not a recognized cause of colic. Therefore, the correct explanation for the cause of colicky behavior in infants is paroxysmal abdominal pain.

2. A nurse is assessing a 3-month-old infant with suspected pyloric stenosis. What clinical manifestation is the nurse likely to observe?

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Projectile vomiting is the hallmark clinical manifestation of pyloric stenosis in infants. In pyloric stenosis, the muscle surrounding the opening between the stomach and the small intestine thickens, leading to obstruction. This obstruction causes forceful, projectile vomiting, which is typically non-bilious (does not contain bile) and occurs after feedings. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because diarrhea, constipation, and abdominal distension are not typical symptoms of pyloric stenosis.

3. What should be used to feed an infant born with a unilateral cleft lip and palate?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: A cross-cut nipple is the most appropriate choice for feeding an infant with a unilateral cleft lip and palate. Using a cross-cut nipple helps regulate the flow of milk, making feeding easier for the infant and reducing the risk of aspiration. Plastic spoons, parenteral infusion, and rubber-tipped syringes are not recommended for feeding infants with cleft lip and palate as they can pose risks such as choking, aspiration, or inadequate milk intake. It is essential to choose a feeding method that minimizes these risks and ensures proper nutrition for the infant.

4. An infant is diagnosed with Hirschsprung disease. What nursing intervention is essential before surgery?

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct nursing intervention essential before surgery for an infant with Hirschsprung disease is maintaining NPO (nothing by mouth) status. This is important to prevent aspiration during and after the surgical procedure. Administering antibiotics (Choice A) may be necessary in some cases but is not the priority intervention before surgery. Ensuring bowel rest (Choice B) is not directly related to preparing for surgery and may not be the most critical intervention. Performing regular enemas (Choice C) is not recommended before surgery for Hirschsprung disease as it can aggravate the condition.

5. What are general guidelines when assessing a 2-year-old child with abdominal pain and adequate perfusion?

Correct answer: A

Rationale: When assessing a 2-year-old child with abdominal pain and adequate perfusion, it is important to examine the child in the parent's arms. This approach helps reduce the child's anxiety, provides comfort, and can facilitate a more accurate assessment. Palpating the painful area of the abdomen first (choice B) may cause discomfort and increase anxiety in the child. Placing the child supine and palpating the abdomen (choice C) without considering the child's comfort and security may lead to resistance and inaccurate assessment. Separating the child from the parent to ensure a reliable examination (choice D) can further increase anxiety and hinder the assessment process. Therefore, examining the child in the parent's arms (choice A) is the most appropriate and effective approach in this scenario.

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