Nursing Elites

1. A nurse is planning care for a school-age child who has thrombocytopenia. Which of the following interventions should the nurse include in the plan?

• A. Administer aspirin as needed for fever.
• B. Avoid venipunctures whenever possible.
• C. Encourage the child to participate in contact sports.
• D. Administer ibuprofen for pain.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: 'Avoid venipunctures whenever possible.' Thrombocytopenia is a condition characterized by a low platelet count, which can lead to an increased risk of bleeding. Venipunctures can cause bleeding in these patients; therefore, they should be avoided whenever possible. Choice A is incorrect because aspirin should be avoided in patients with thrombocytopenia as it can further increase the risk of bleeding due to its antiplatelet effects. Choice C is incorrect because participating in contact sports can also increase the risk of injury and bleeding in a child with thrombocytopenia. Choice D is incorrect as ibuprofen, like aspirin, can also increase the risk of bleeding and should be avoided in these patients.

2. The healthcare provider is assessing abdominal girth for a pediatric client who presents with abdominal distension. Which nursing action is appropriate?

• A. Measuring the girth just below the umbilicus
• B. Measuring the girth just below the sternum
• C. Measuring the girth just above the pubic bone
• D. Measuring the girth around the largest portion of the abdomen

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Measuring the girth around the largest portion of the abdomen ensures accurate assessment and tracking of abdominal distension. This method provides a more comprehensive measurement and helps healthcare providers monitor changes effectively.

3. The nurse is teaching a patient with cancer about a new prescription for a fentanyl patch, 25mcg/hr. for chronic back pain. Which statement is the most appropriate to include in the teaching plan.

• A. You will need to change this patch every day, regardless of your pain level.
• B. This type of pain medication is not as likely to cause breathing problems.
• C. With the first patch, it will take about 24hrs before you feel the full effects.
• D. Use your heating pad for the back pain. It will also improve the patch�s effectiveness.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Full analgesic effects can take up to 24 hours to develop with fentanyl patches. Most patches are changed every 72 hours. Has the same adverse effects as other opioids, including respiratory depression. Should avoid exposing the patch to external heat sources, because this may increase toxicity.

4. What side effect should the nurse include in the parent teaching for a child prescribed a baclofen pump for cerebral palsy?

• A. Diarrhea
• B. Hypertonia
• C. Hypotonia
• D. Restlessness

Correct answer: C

Rationale: When a child is prescribed a baclofen pump for cerebral palsy, one of the common side effects to include in parent teaching is hypotonia. Baclofen, a muscle relaxant, can lead to decreased muscle tone, resulting in hypotonia. It is important for parents to be aware of this potential side effect and know how to respond accordingly.

5. A healthcare professional is planning care for an infant who has a colostomy. Which of the following actions should the healthcare professional take?

• A. Change the ostomy pouch every day.
• B. Use baby wipes to clean the stoma.
• C. Avoid using soap to clean the stoma.
• D. Apply barrier ointment to the skin around the stoma.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: When caring for an infant with a colostomy, it is essential to apply barrier ointment to the skin around the stoma. This helps in preventing skin breakdown and irritation caused by exposure to stool or urine. Changing the ostomy pouch as needed, using appropriate cleaning supplies such as warm water and mild soap (avoiding harsh chemicals like alcohol), and ensuring gentle cleaning of the stoma with a soft cloth or gauze are also important steps in colostomy care. Using baby wipes may not be recommended as they can contain chemicals that may irritate the sensitive skin around the stoma.

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