Nursing Elites

1. A young child has coarctation of the aorta. What does the nurse expect to identify when taking the child’s vital signs?

• A. A weak radial pulse
• B. An irregular heartbeat
• C. A bounding femoral pulse
• D. An elevated radial blood pressure

Correct answer: A

Rationale: In coarctation of the aorta, there is narrowing of the aorta leading to decreased blood flow distal to the constriction. This results in a weak or delayed femoral pulse and a relatively weaker radial pulse compared to the femoral pulse. An irregular heartbeat (choice B) is not a typical finding in coarctation of the aorta. A bounding femoral pulse (choice C) would not be expected due to the decreased blood flow beyond the constriction. An elevated radial blood pressure (choice D) is not a common characteristic of coarctation of the aorta; instead, blood pressure may be higher in the upper extremities compared to the lower extremities due to the constriction.

2. A 3-year-old child with a history of frequent respiratory infections is being evaluated for cystic fibrosis. What diagnostic test should the nurse anticipate will be ordered?

• A. Chest X-ray
• B. Sweat chloride test
• C. Pulmonary function test
• D. Sputum culture

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The sweat chloride test is the gold standard diagnostic test for cystic fibrosis as it measures the concentration of chloride in sweat. In cystic fibrosis, there is an abnormal transport of chloride across epithelial membranes, leading to elevated sweat chloride levels. A chest X-ray may show characteristic changes in the lungs associated with cystic fibrosis, but it is not a definitive diagnostic test. Pulmonary function tests assess lung function but do not specifically diagnose cystic fibrosis. Sputum culture may identify respiratory infections but does not confirm the diagnosis of cystic fibrosis.

3. The nurse is assessing a 9-year-old girl with a history of tuberculosis at age 6 years. She has been losing weight and has no appetite. The nurse suspects Addison disease based on which assessment findings?

• A. Arrested height and increased weight
• B. Thin, fragile skin and multiple bruises
• C. Hyperpigmentation and hypotension
• D. Blurred vision and enuresis

Correct answer: C

Rationale: In a child with suspected Addison disease, the presence of hyperpigmentation (bronzing of the skin) and hypotension are key clinical findings. Hyperpigmentation is due to increased ACTH stimulation, resulting in melanocyte stimulation. Hypotension occurs due to decreased aldosterone production and subsequent sodium loss. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect. Arrested height and increased weight are not typical of Addison disease; thin, fragile skin and multiple bruises are more indicative of conditions like Cushing's syndrome; blurred vision and enuresis are not typically associated with Addison disease.

4. A 2-year-old child with a diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder is being discharged. What should the nurse include in the discharge teaching?

• A. Maintain a structured routine
• B. Encourage social interaction
• C. Use positive reinforcement
• D. Use a communication board

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is to maintain a structured routine. Children with autism spectrum disorder benefit greatly from structured routines as they provide a sense of stability and predictability, which can help reduce anxiety and improve behavior. Encouraging social interaction (Choice B) is important but may need to be approached in a structured manner to prevent overwhelming the child. Positive reinforcement (Choice C) is also beneficial for behavior management but may not address the overall need for routine and predictability that is crucial for children with autism. Using a communication board (Choice D) may be helpful for facilitating communication, but establishing and maintaining a structured routine is fundamental for supporting the child's development and well-being in managing their autism spectrum disorder.

5. A child sitting on a chair in a playroom starts to have a tonic-clonic seizure with a clenched jaw. What is the nurse’s best initial action?

• A. Attempt to open the jaw.
• B. Place the child on the floor.
• C. Call out for assistance from staff.
• D. Place a pillow under the child’s head.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The best initial action during a tonic-clonic seizure is to place the child on the floor. This action helps prevent injury by providing a safe environment and allows for better management of the seizure episode. Attempting to open the jaw is not recommended as it may cause harm to the child or the nurse. Calling out for assistance is important but should not delay ensuring the child's safety first. Placing a pillow under the child's head is not advisable during a seizure as it can pose a risk of suffocation or choking.

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