Nursing Elites

1. A teen with asthma asks the nurse why it is hard to breathe during an asthma attack. The nurse explains that exposure to a “trigger” results in which of these manifestations?

• A. Bronchodilation, muscle relaxation, and decreased mucus production
• B. Air trapping and hypo-inflation of the alveoli
• C. Air trapping and decreased blood flow to the upper airway
• D. Bronchoconstriction, airway inflammation, and excess mucus production

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D. Asthma triggers cause bronchoconstriction, airway inflammation, and increased mucus production, leading to difficulty breathing. This combination of manifestations results in narrowing of the airways, making it hard for the individual to breathe effectively. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect because during an asthma attack, bronchodilation, muscle relaxation, and decreased mucus production do not occur. Instead, the airways constrict, become inflamed, and produce excess mucus, contributing to the breathing difficulties experienced by individuals with asthma.

2. What is the recommended position for a child after a tonsillectomy?

• A. Supine
• B. Prone
• C. Side-lying
• D. Fowler's position

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Side-lying. The side-lying position is recommended after a tonsillectomy to facilitate drainage of secretions and reduce the risk of aspiration. This position helps prevent blood from pooling in the back of the throat, decreasing the chance of bleeding postoperatively. Supine (lying face up), while commonly used in other situations, may not be ideal immediately after a tonsillectomy due to the risk of airway obstruction from blood clots. Prone (lying face down) is not recommended as it can hinder breathing and increase the risk of complications. Fowler's position (semi-sitting) is also not typically used after a tonsillectomy because it may cause discomfort and hinder proper drainage.

3. Which statement best describes colic?

• A. Periods of abdominal pain resulting in weight loss
• B. Usually the result of poor or inadequate mothering
• C. Periods of abdominal pain and crying occurring in infants older than age 6 months
• D. A paroxysmal abdominal pain or cramping manifested by episodes of loud crying

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Colic is characterized by episodes of loud, inconsolable crying, often due to abdominal discomfort, and typically occurs in infants younger than 6 months. It is not related to poor mothering, nor does it necessarily result in weight loss.

4. A preschool-age boy presents to the outpatient clinic for a sore throat. In the child’s mind, which is the most likely cause for the sore throat?

• A. Being exposed to a classmate with strep throat
• B. Not eating the right foods
• C. Not taking daily vitamins
• D. Yelling at sibling for being annoying

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D. Preschool-age children often attribute illness to their actions, like yelling at a sibling or not following instructions. They may not understand medical causes such as exposure to infections like strep throat (choice A), dietary factors (choice B), or vitamin deficiencies (choice C). It is common for young children to connect symptoms to recent behaviors or events within their limited understanding.

5. Children may believe that they are responsible for their parents' divorce and interpret the separation as punishment. At which age is this most likely to occur?

• A. 1 year
• B. 4 years
• C. 8 years
• D. 13 years

Correct answer: C

Rationale: At around 8 years old, children may feel they are responsible for their parents' divorce and view it as a punishment, which can impact their emotional well-being.

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