Nursing Elites

1. A healthcare professional is reviewing the clinical records of infants and children with cardiac disorders who developed heart failure. What did the healthcare professional determine is the last sign of heart failure?

• A. Tachypnea
• B. Tachycardia
• C. Peripheral edema
• D. Periorbital edema

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Peripheral edema is often the last sign of heart failure in infants and children as it indicates significant fluid retention and circulatory compromise. Tachypnea (Choice A) and tachycardia (Choice B) are early signs of heart failure due to the body's compensatory mechanisms. Periorbital edema (Choice D) can occur in heart failure but is not typically the last sign; it is more commonly associated with renal or hepatic dysfunction.

2. The school nurse is caring for a boy with hemophilia who fell on his arm during recess. What supportive measures should the nurse use until factor replacement therapy can be instituted?

• A. Apply warm, moist compresses
• B. Apply pressure for at least 1 minute
• C. Elevate the area above the level of the heart
• D. Begin passive range-of-motion unless the pain is severe

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Elevating the affected area above the level of the heart is the correct supportive measure for a child with hemophilia who has experienced trauma. This action helps reduce bleeding and swelling by promoting venous return and preventing further pooling of blood in the affected area. Applying warm, moist compresses (Choice A) may not be recommended as it can potentially increase bleeding by dilating blood vessels. Applying pressure for at least 1 minute (Choice B) can be helpful for minor cuts or wounds but may not be as effective in managing bleeding in a child with hemophilia. Beginning passive range-of-motion (Choice D) should be avoided as it can exacerbate bleeding and cause further damage in a child with hemophilia.

3. A 1-week-old infant has been in the pediatric unit for 18 hours following placement of a spica cast. The nurse observes a respiratory rate of fewer than 24 breaths/min. No other changes are noted. Because the infant is apparently well, the nurse does not report or document the slow respiratory rate. Several hours later, the infant experiences severe respiratory distress, and emergency care is necessary. What should be considered if legal action is taken?

• A. Most infants have slow respirations when they are uncomfortable.
• B. The respiratory rates of young infants are irregular, so a drop in rate is unimportant.
• C. Vital signs that are outside the expected parameters are significant and should be documented.
• D. The respiratory tract of young infants is underdeveloped, and their respiratory rate is not significant.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: In this scenario, the nurse failed to report or document the slow respiratory rate of the infant, which later led to severe respiratory distress. It is crucial to understand that any vital signs outside the expected range in an infant should be documented and reported promptly. This documentation is vital for monitoring the infant's condition, identifying potential issues, and ensuring timely intervention if needed. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because they downplay the significance of abnormal vital signs and fail to emphasize the importance of documentation and reporting in infant care.

4. A 5-year-old child is admitted to the hospital with a diagnosis of bacterial meningitis. What is the priority nursing intervention?

• A. Administering antibiotics
• B. Isolating the child
• C. Monitoring vital signs
• D. Administering fluids

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The priority nursing intervention for a 5-year-old child admitted to the hospital with bacterial meningitis is to isolate the child. Isolating the child is crucial to prevent the spread of infection to others, as bacterial meningitis is highly contagious. Administering antibiotics (Choice A) is important in the treatment of bacterial meningitis, but isolating the child takes precedence to protect others. Monitoring vital signs (Choice C) and administering fluids (Choice D) are essential aspects of care for a child with meningitis but are not the priority intervention to prevent the spread of the infection.

5. A child with a diagnosis of celiac disease is being discharged. What dietary instructions should the nurse provide?

• A. Avoid dairy products
• B. Avoid gluten
• C. Avoid high-fat foods
• D. Avoid foods high in sugar

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: 'Avoid gluten.' Celiac disease is a condition in which the immune system reacts to gluten, a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye. Avoiding gluten is essential in managing celiac disease as it helps prevent damage to the small intestine and alleviate symptoms. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because dairy products, high-fat foods, and foods high in sugar do not directly relate to the management of celiac disease. It is crucial to focus on eliminating gluten-containing foods to effectively control the condition.

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