Nursing Elites

1. During postoperative care for a child who has had a tonsillectomy, what is an important nursing intervention?

• A. Encouraging deep breathing exercises
• B. Encouraging the child to eat
• C. Administering antibiotics
• D. Applying ice to the throat

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Administering antibiotics is crucial post-tonsillectomy to prevent infection, as the surgical site is susceptible to bacterial growth. Encouraging deep breathing exercises can also be beneficial for lung expansion and preventing respiratory complications. However, administering antibiotics takes precedence as it directly addresses the risk of infection. Encouraging the child to eat may not be appropriate immediately post-tonsillectomy due to the risk of throat irritation and potential discomfort. Applying ice to the throat is typically not recommended after a tonsillectomy, as it may constrict blood vessels and hinder the healing process.

2. The parents of a newborn with phenylketonuria (PKU) need help and support in adhering to specific dietary restrictions. They ask the nurse, “How long will our child have to be on this diet?” How should the nurse respond?

• A. “We are still not sure; you should discuss this with your health care provider.”
• B. “If your baby does well, foods containing protein can gradually be introduced.”
• C. “Your child needs to be on this diet at least through adolescence and into adulthood.”
• D. “This is a lifelong problem, and it is recommended that dietary restrictions must be continued.”

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: “This is a lifelong problem, and it is recommended that dietary restrictions must be continued.” Phenylketonuria (PKU) is a metabolic disorder where the body cannot process phenylalanine properly. The diet for PKU must be continued lifelong to prevent cognitive and developmental issues, as phenylalanine buildup can cause irreversible damage. Choice A is incorrect because the nurse should provide information about the lifelong nature of the dietary restrictions for PKU. Choice B is incorrect as it suggests reintroducing protein-containing foods, which is not recommended for individuals with PKU. Choice C is incorrect as it underestimates the duration of the necessary dietary restrictions for PKU.

3. What finding would lead healthcare providers to suspect Turner syndrome in a child?

• A. Webbed neck
• B. Microcephaly
• C. Gynecomastia
• D. Cognitive delay

Correct answer: A

Rationale: A webbed neck is a classic physical characteristic seen in individuals with Turner syndrome, a genetic condition that results from a missing or partially missing X chromosome in females. This distinctive feature occurs due to excess skin on the neck and is a key clinical clue for healthcare providers. Microcephaly (choice B) refers to a small head size and is not typically associated with Turner syndrome. Gynecomastia (choice C) is the enlargement of breast tissue in males and is not a common finding in Turner syndrome. Cognitive delay (choice D) involves intellectual or developmental delays and is not a specific feature of Turner syndrome.

4. The mother of a 5-year-old child with eczema is getting a check-up for her child before school starts. What will the nurse do during the visit?

• A. Change the bandage on a cut on the child’s hand.
• B. Assess the compliance with treatment regimens.
• C. Discuss systemic corticosteroid therapy.
• D. Assess the child’s fluid volume.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: During a check-up for a child with eczema, assessing compliance with treatment regimens is a key nursing intervention. This helps ensure that the child is following the prescribed treatment plan effectively, which is crucial in managing eczema and preventing flare-ups. Changing a bandage on a cut is not directly related to managing eczema. Discussing systemic corticosteroid therapy may be part of the visit, but assessing compliance is more immediate and essential. Assessing the child’s fluid volume is important for overall health assessment but not specifically related to managing eczema.

5. A child undergoes heart surgery to repair the defects associated with tetralogy of Fallot. What behavior is essential for the nurse to prevent postoperatively?

• A. Crying
• B. Coughing
• C. Straining at stool
• D. Unnecessary movement

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct behavior that the nurse needs to prevent postoperatively is straining at stool. Straining at stool should be avoided as it can increase intrathoracic pressure, leading to stress on the surgical site. This stress can potentially compromise the surgical repair and increase the risk of complications. Crying, coughing, and unnecessary movement, although important to monitor postoperatively, do not directly impact the surgical site as significantly as straining at stool does. Therefore, the focus should be on preventing straining at stool to ensure the best postoperative outcome for the child.

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