Nursing Elites

1. An infant who has had diarrhea for 3 days is admitted in a lethargic state and is breathing rapidly. The parent states that the baby has been ingesting formula, although not as much as usual, and cannot understand the sudden change. What explanation should the nurse give the parent?

• A. Cellular metabolism is unstable in young children.
• B. The proportion of water in the body is less than in adults.
• C. Renal function is immature in children until they reach school age.
• D. The extracellular fluid requirement per unit of body weight is greater than in adults.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D. Infants have a higher extracellular fluid requirement per unit of body weight, making them more susceptible to dehydration and electrolyte imbalances during illnesses such as diarrhea. Choice A is incorrect because cellular metabolism being unstable is not the primary explanation for the symptoms described. Choice B is incorrect as the proportion of water in the body alone does not fully explain the increased risk of dehydration in infants. Choice C is incorrect because while renal function is immature in children, it is not the most relevant factor in this scenario compared to the increased fluid requirements.

2. A 1-week-old infant has been in the pediatric unit for 18 hours following placement of a spica cast. The nurse observes a respiratory rate of fewer than 24 breaths/min. No other changes are noted. Because the infant is apparently well, the nurse does not report or document the slow respiratory rate. Several hours later, the infant experiences severe respiratory distress, and emergency care is necessary. What should be considered if legal action is taken?

• A. Most infants have slow respirations when they are uncomfortable.
• B. The respiratory rates of young infants are irregular, so a drop in rate is unimportant.
• C. Vital signs that are outside the expected parameters are significant and should be documented.
• D. The respiratory tract of young infants is underdeveloped, and their respiratory rate is not significant.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: In this scenario, the nurse failed to report or document the slow respiratory rate of the infant, which later led to severe respiratory distress. It is crucial to understand that any vital signs outside the expected range in an infant should be documented and reported promptly. This documentation is vital for monitoring the infant's condition, identifying potential issues, and ensuring timely intervention if needed. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because they downplay the significance of abnormal vital signs and fail to emphasize the importance of documentation and reporting in infant care.

3. A 7-year-old child with a history of seizures is being discharged from the hospital. What should the nurse include in the discharge teaching for the parents?

• A. Administer antiepileptic medication as prescribed, not just when a seizure occurs
• B. Ensure the child gets adequate sleep
• C. Restrict the child's activities to prevent seizures
• D. Teach seizure first aid to family members

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is to teach seizure first aid to family members. This is crucial because family members need to know how to appropriately respond during a seizure to ensure the child's safety. Choice A has been corrected to emphasize that antiepileptic medication should be administered as prescribed, not just when a seizure occurs, to effectively manage the condition. Choice B, while important for overall health, is not directly related to seizure management. Choice C is not recommended as restricting activities may not prevent seizures and may hinder the child's quality of life.

4. The nurse is caring for an infant with candidal diaper rash. Which topical agent would the nurse expect the healthcare provider to order?

• A. Corticosteroids.
• B. Antifungals.
• C. Antibiotics.
• D. Retinoids.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Antifungal agents are the appropriate treatment for candidal diaper rash as it is a fungal infection. Corticosteroids, antibiotics, and retinoids are not indicated for this condition. Corticosteroids may worsen fungal infections, antibiotics are used for bacterial infections, and retinoids are typically used for acne and skin conditions unrelated to candidal diaper rash.

5. The healthcare professional is preparing a presentation to a local community group about genetic disorders and the types of congenital anomalies that can occur. What would the professional include as a major congenital anomaly?

• A. Overlapping digits
• B. Polydactyly
• C. Umbilical hernia
• D. Cleft palate

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Cleft palate is considered a major congenital anomaly due to its significant impact on feeding, speech, and overall health. Overlapping digits (Option A) are a physical anomaly but not typically considered a major congenital anomaly. Polydactyly (Option B) refers to having extra fingers or toes, which is a congenital anomaly but not as major as a cleft palate. Umbilical hernia (Option C) involves a protrusion of abdominal contents through the umbilical ring but is not typically classified as a major congenital anomaly compared to cleft palate.

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