Nursing Elites

1. Why is it recommended that closure of the palate should be done before the age of 2 for an 11-month-old infant with a cleft palate?

• A. “After the age of 2, surgery becomes frightening and should be avoided if possible.”
• B. “The eruption of the 2-year molars often complicates the surgical procedure.”
• C. “As your child grows older, the palate widens, making repair more challenging.”
• D. “Surgery should be performed before your child begins to use faulty speech patterns.”

Correct answer: D

Rationale: It is recommended to perform palate closure surgery before the child starts using faulty speech patterns to prevent the development of speech issues that may be harder to correct later. Delaying surgery until after the age of 2 can lead to the child forming incorrect speech habits, which can be challenging to correct. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect because they do not address the specific concern related to speech development in children with cleft palates.

2. A child with diabetes insipidus is being treated with vasopressin. The nurse would assess the child closely for signs and symptoms of which condition?

• A. Syndrome of inappropriate antidiuretic hormone (SIADH)
• B. Thyroid storm
• C. Cushing syndrome
• D. Vitamin D toxicity

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Syndrome of inappropriate antidiuretic hormone (SIADH). Vasopressin is a medication used to treat diabetes insipidus by increasing water reabsorption in the kidneys. However, an excessive dose of vasopressin can lead to water retention, causing SIADH, which is characterized by dilutional hyponatremia. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect. Thyroid storm is a severe form of hyperthyroidism characterized by increased metabolism and can lead to life-threatening complications. Cushing syndrome results from excess cortisol production and is characterized by weight gain, hypertension, and other features. Vitamin D toxicity occurs due to an overdose of vitamin D, leading to hypercalcemia and symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and weakness.

3. What should parents be taught when a 7-year-old child with a history of seizures is being discharged from the hospital?

• A. Administer antiepileptic medication as prescribed
• B. Ensure the child receives adequate sleep
• C. Restrict the child's activities to prevent seizures
• D. Teach seizure first aid to family members

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Teaching seizure first aid to family members is crucial in ensuring the child's safety during a seizure. This education empowers family members to respond effectively, protect the child from injury, and provide appropriate care. Option A is incorrect because antiepileptic medication should be administered as prescribed, not only when a seizure occurs. Option B, while important for overall health, is not specific to managing seizures. Option C is incorrect as there is no evidence that restricting activities prevents seizures, and it may negatively impact the child's quality of life without offering additional safety benefits.

4. A nurse is assessing a child with suspected pertussis. What clinical manifestation is the nurse likely to observe?

• A. Dry, hacking cough
• B. Inspiratory stridor
• C. Nasal congestion
• D. Severe coughing spells

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: Severe coughing spells. Pertussis, also known as whooping cough, typically presents with severe coughing spells that can be followed by a characteristic 'whoop' sound. These coughing fits can be intense and prolonged, often causing the child to gasp for air between coughs. Option A, dry hacking cough, is a common symptom of other respiratory conditions like bronchitis. Option B, inspiratory stridor, is more commonly associated with conditions like croup. Option C, nasal congestion, is not a typical symptom of pertussis.

5. Which of the following findings would indicate altered mental status in a small child?

• A. Recognition of the parents
• B. Fright at the EMT-B's presence
• C. Lack of attention to the EMT-B's presence
• D. Consistent eye contact with the EMT-B

Correct answer: C

Rationale: In small children, altered mental status can manifest as a lack of attention to the presence of unfamiliar individuals, such as the EMT-B. This lack of engagement may indicate confusion, disorientation, or impaired cognitive function. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect as recognizing parents, exhibiting fear, or maintaining consistent eye contact do not necessarily indicate altered mental status. Recognizing parents is a normal response, fear can be a typical reaction to unfamiliar situations, and making eye contact may be a sign of curiosity or comfort rather than a reflection of mental status.

Similar Questions