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. Which of the following conditions is characterized by a 'machine-like' murmur in children?

• A. Patent ductus arteriosus
• B. Ventricular septal defect
• C. Atrial septal defect
• D. Coarctation of the aorta

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A, Patent ductus arteriosus. This condition is characterized by a continuous 'machine-like' murmur due to abnormal blood flow between the aorta and pulmonary artery. Ventricular septal defect (choice B) is characterized by a harsh holosystolic murmur, atrial septal defect (choice C) typically presents with a fixed split S2 and a pulmonary flow murmur, and coarctation of the aorta (choice D) is associated with a systolic murmur in the back and bilateral lower extremities.

3. By what age does birth weight usually triple?

• A. 1 year
• B. 1 month
• C. 2 years
• D. 6 months

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: 1 year. By the age of 1 year, a baby’s birth weight typically triples. This period allows for significant growth and development in infants. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because birth weight does not usually triple by 1 month, 2 years, or 6 months of age, respectively.

4. What findings on physical assessment of a neonate would indicate the need for further evaluation?

• A. Nystagmus
• B. Epstein pearls
• C. Low-set ears
• D. Positive Babinski reflex

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Low-set ears in a neonate suggest major abnormalities and should prompt further evaluation. The correct alignment of the top of the pinnae of the ear with the outer canthus of the eye is crucial. Nystagmus, an involuntary eye movement, is common in newborns and often resolves on its own. Epstein pearls, small cysts on the hard palate, are insignificant and disappear over time. A positive Babinski reflex is normal in infants up to 1 year of age. Therefore, the presence of low-set ears is the most concerning finding that requires immediate attention.

5. What is an important intervention in providing a neutral thermal environment for an LBW infant in an incubator?

• A. Use wool blankets.
• B. Avoid using disposable diapers.
• C. Prevent heat loss.
• D. Closely monitor both incubator and rectal temperatures.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Preventing heat loss in a low birth weight (LBW) infant is crucial in maintaining a neutral thermal environment. The use of cotton blankets is recommended over wool blankets. Avoiding disposable diapers is not directly related to maintaining a neutral thermal environment. While monitoring temperatures is important, the key intervention is preventing heat loss to ensure the infant's survival.

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