Nursing Elites

1. An infant is diagnosed with a tracheoesophageal fistula. Which assessment finding should the nurse expect?

• A. Jaundice
• B. Hyperactive bowel sounds
• C. Absence of sucking, vomiting
• D. Coughing, with excessive secretion

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Coughing with excessive secretion is a common sign of tracheoesophageal fistula. In this condition, the connection between the trachea and esophagus allows saliva and food to enter the airways, leading to coughing and excessive secretions. Choice A, jaundice, is not typically associated with tracheoesophageal fistula. Hyperactive bowel sounds (Choice B) are more likely seen in conditions like gastroenteritis. Absence of sucking and vomiting (Choice C) is not a typical finding related to tracheoesophageal fistula.

2. According to Erikson’s developmental theory, toddlers need to be encouraged to become independent to successfully complete which developmental challenge?

• A. Trust vs. mistrust
• B. Industry vs. inferiority
• C. Autonomy vs. shame and doubt
• D. Initiative vs. guilt

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Autonomy vs. shame and doubt. Erikson's developmental stage for toddlers focuses on the conflict between developing a sense of independence (autonomy) and feelings of inadequacy (shame and doubt). Encouraging toddlers to explore their environment and make choices helps them build self-confidence and independence. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because trust vs. mistrust relates to infancy, industry vs. inferiority is associated with school-age children, and initiative vs. guilt is linked to preschoolers.

3. An infant with hydrocephalus is hospitalized for surgical placement of a ventriculoperitoneal shunt. Postoperative nursing care would include what?

• A. Monitor closely for signs of infection.
• B. Place the child with the operative side of the head up.
• C. Avoid pumping the shunt reservoir to maintain patency.
• D. Avoid maintaining a Trendelenburg position to decrease pressure on the shunt.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Postoperative nursing care for an infant with hydrocephalus who underwent ventriculoperitoneal shunt placement includes monitoring closely for signs of infection, as infection is the greatest hazard in the postoperative period. Signs of cerebrospinal fluid infection to watch for include elevated temperature, poor feeding, vomiting, decreased responsiveness, and seizure activity. The child should be placed with the operative side of the head up to reduce pressure on the valve. The shunt reservoir should not be pumped to maintain patency, as this can disrupt its function. Maintaining a Trendelenburg position to decrease pressure on the shunt is contraindicated as it can lead to increased intracranial pressure and compromise the shunt's effectiveness.

4. What is the first step in treating a child with suspected anaphylaxis?

• A. Administer oxygen
• B. Start an IV line
• C. Give epinephrine
• D. Monitor vital signs

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Give epinephrine. Administering epinephrine is the first and most critical step in treating anaphylaxis. Epinephrine rapidly reverses the symptoms of anaphylaxis, including airway swelling, hypotension, and shock. Delaying administration can lead to severe complications or death, making it essential in emergency treatment. Choice A, administering oxygen, might be necessary but should not delay the administration of epinephrine. Starting an IV line (Choice B) is important for further treatment but not the initial step. Monitoring vital signs (Choice D) is essential but comes after administering epinephrine to stabilize the child.

5. After surgery yesterday for gastroesophageal reflux, the nurse finds that the infant has somehow removed the nasogastric (NG) tube. What nursing action is most appropriate to perform at this time?

• A. Notify the healthcare provider.
• B. Insert a new NG tube for feedings.
• C. Replace the NG tube to maintain gastric decompression.
• D. Leave the NG tube out as it may have been in long enough.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The most appropriate action for the nurse to take in this situation is to notify the healthcare provider immediately. This is important as the removal of the NG tube can disrupt postoperative care, especially in terms of maintaining gastric decompression. Inserting a new NG tube without practitioner direction can be unsafe and is not within the nurse's scope of practice. Similarly, replacing the NG tube or leaving it out should be decided by the healthcare provider to ensure the infant's safety and appropriate postoperative care.

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