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. What should be included in the teaching plan for parents of an infant diagnosed with phenylketonuria (PKU)?

• A. Mental retardation occurs if PKU is untreated.
• B. Testing for PKU is done immediately after birth.
• C. Treatment for PKU includes lifelong dietary management.
• D. PKU is transmitted as an autosomal recessive trait.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: 'Mental retardation occurs if PKU is untreated.' Phenylketonuria (PKU) is a metabolic disorder that results in the inability to metabolize phenylalanine properly. Without proper dietary management, high levels of phenylalanine can lead to severe mental retardation and other neurological problems. Therefore, educating parents about the importance of early and consistent treatment to prevent mental retardation is crucial. Choice B is incorrect because testing for PKU is typically done shortly after birth, not immediately. Choice C is incorrect because treatment for PKU primarily involves strict dietary management to control phenylalanine intake, not lifelong medications. Choice D is incorrect because PKU is inherited in an autosomal recessive pattern, not as an autosomal dominant gene.

3. During a primary survey of a child with partial thickness burns over the upper body areas, what action should the nurse take first?

• A. Inspect the child's skin color.
• B. Assess for a patent airway.
• C. Observe for symmetric breathing.
• D. Palpate the child's pulse.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: When managing a child with partial thickness burns over the upper body areas, the priority action during the primary survey is to assess for a patent airway. This step is crucial as burns in this region can lead to airway compromise, potentially causing rapid deterioration in the child's condition. Checking for a patent airway ensures that the child can breathe adequately, which is essential for oxygenation and ventilation. Inspecting the child's skin color (Choice A) is an important assessment but should follow ensuring a patent airway. Observing for symmetric breathing (Choice C) is relevant, but the immediate focus should be on securing the airway. Palpating the child's pulse (Choice D) is also a vital assessment, but in this scenario, the priority is to assess and maintain a clear airway to support respiratory function and oxygen delivery.

4. A nurse on the pediatric unit is observing the developmental skills of several 2-year-old children in the playroom. Which child should the nurse continue to evaluate?

• A. Cannot stand on one foot
• B. Builds a tower of 7 blocks
• C. Uses echolalia when speaking
• D. Colors outside the lines of a picture

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C because using echolalia (repeating words or phrases) is not typical for a 2-year-old and may indicate the need for further evaluation. Choices A, B, and D are within the expected developmental skills for a 2-year-old. While a 2-year-old may not be able to stand on one foot for an extended period, it is not a concerning developmental milestone at this age. Building a tower of 7 blocks and coloring outside the lines of a picture are both age-appropriate activities that demonstrate fine motor skills and creativity, respectively. However, echolalia at this age could be a sign of an underlying communication or developmental issue that warrants further assessment and monitoring.

5. The healthcare provider notes that a child has lost 8 pounds after 4 days of hospitalization for acute glomerulonephritis. This is most likely the result of

• A. poor appetite
• B. increased potassium intake
• C. reduction of edema
• D. restriction to bed rest

Correct answer: C

Rationale: In acute glomerulonephritis, weight loss is most likely due to the reduction of edema. Edema is a common symptom of glomerulonephritis, which causes fluid retention and swelling in the body. As treatment progresses and the condition improves, the reduction of edema leads to weight loss. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect as they do not directly address the underlying pathophysiology of acute glomerulonephritis and its impact on weight loss.

Similar Questions