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 child with diabetes insipidus is being treated with vasopressin. The nurse would assess the child closely for signs and symptoms of which condition?

• A. Syndrome of inappropriate antidiuretic hormone (SIADH)
• B. Thyroid storm
• C. Cushing syndrome
• D. Vitamin D toxicity

Correct answer: A

Rationale: When a child with diabetes insipidus is treated with vasopressin, the nurse should closely monitor for signs and symptoms of Syndrome of Inappropriate Antidiuretic Hormone (SIADH). Vasopressin, also known as antidiuretic hormone, helps retain water in the body. Excessive vasopressin administration can lead to water retention, dilutional hyponatremia, and potentially result in SIADH. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because they are not directly associated with the use of vasopressin in treating diabetes insipidus.

3. A child with Duchenne muscular dystrophy is to receive prednisone as part of their treatment plan. After teaching the child's parents about this drug, which statement by the parents indicates the need for additional teaching?

• A. We should give this drug after he eats something.
• B. We need to watch carefully for possible infections.
• C. The drug should not be stopped abruptly.
• D. He might experience weight gain with this drug.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct statement should be, 'We should give this drug after he eats something.' Prednisone should be administered with food to help prevent gastrointestinal upset. Choice B is correct as monitoring for infections is important due to prednisone's immunosuppressive effects. Choice C is correct as prednisone should not be stopped suddenly to prevent withdrawal symptoms. Choice D is correct as weight gain is a common side effect of prednisone.

4. Why does a cleft lip predispose an infant to infection, concerning a nurse caring for the infant?

• A. Waste products accumulate along the defect.
• B. There is inadequate circulation in the defective area.
• C. Nutrition is inadequate due to ineffective feeding.
• D. Mouth breathing dries the oropharyngeal mucous membranes.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Mouth breathing due to a cleft lip can dry the mucous membranes, increasing their susceptibility to infection. While waste product accumulation (Choice A) and inadequate circulation (Choice B) may contribute to complications, they are not directly related to infection in this context. Inadequate nutrition (Choice C) may affect overall health but is not the primary reason for infection predisposition in this case.

5. What explanation should the nurse provide to the parents of a 6-month-old infant diagnosed with cystic fibrosis?

• A. It is a condition affecting the respiratory and digestive systems.
• B. It is an autoimmune disorder affecting multiple organs.
• C. It is a genetic disorder that can be managed with medication.
• D. It is a condition caused by prenatal exposure to toxins.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A. Cystic fibrosis is a genetic disorder that primarily affects the respiratory and digestive systems. It results in the production of thick, sticky mucus that can clog the lungs and obstruct the pancreas. This explanation is crucial for parents to understand the impact of the condition on their child's health. Choice B is incorrect because cystic fibrosis is not an autoimmune disorder. Choice C is partially correct in that cystic fibrosis is a genetic disorder, but it requires a comprehensive management approach beyond just medication. Choice D is incorrect as cystic fibrosis is not caused by prenatal exposure to toxins but rather by inheriting specific genetic mutations.

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