Nursing Elites

1. Clinical manifestations of sodium excess (hypernatremia) include which signs or symptoms?

• A. Hyperreflexia
• B. Abdominal cramps
• C. Cardiac dysrhythmias
• D. Dry, sticky mucous membranes

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Hypernatremia often presents with dry, sticky mucous membranes due to dehydration. Hyperreflexia and abdominal cramps may also occur, but dry mucous membranes are more consistently observed in cases of sodium excess.

2. Why are neonates predisposed to problems with thermoregulation?

• A. Renal function is not fully developed
• B. Flexed posture favors heat loss
• C. A large body surface area favors heat loss to the environment
• D. A thick layer of subcutaneous fat provides excellent insulation

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Newborns have a large surface area relative to their body weight, making them more susceptible to heat loss and requiring careful thermoregulation. Choice A is incorrect because renal function is not directly related to thermoregulation. Choice B is incorrect because a flexed posture actually helps reduce heat loss by minimizing the surface area exposed to the environment. Choice D is incorrect because neonates have limited subcutaneous fat, which contributes to their susceptibility to heat loss.

3. A 10-month-old infant is diagnosed with gastroesophageal reflux. An esophageal (pH) probe monitor is ordered. What explanation for the purpose of the esophageal probe should the nurse provide to the parents?

• A. Assist in the passage of formula through the esophagus
• B. Identify the number of reflux episodes that are occurring
• C. Determine the time it takes for the stomach to empty its contents
• D. Monitor the pH within the stomach

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B. The esophageal pH probe is used to identify the frequency and severity of reflux episodes by measuring the pH in the esophagus. Choice A is incorrect because the probe does not assist in the passage of formula through the esophagus. Choice C is incorrect as determining the time it takes for the stomach to empty its contents would require a different procedure. Choice D is incorrect as the esophageal pH probe monitors the pH in the esophagus, not the stomach.

4. A teenager is accompanied by his mother to the annual physical examination. The nurse is aware of privacy issues related to the teenager. While the mother is in the room, which topic should the nurse avoid?

• A. School performance
• B. Seatbelt use
• C. Cigarette smoking
• D. School friends

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Cigarette smoking. Discussing sensitive topics like cigarette smoking in the presence of a parent may inhibit the teenager's willingness to be open and honest. It's important to provide an opportunity for the teenager to speak privately with the healthcare provider. Choices A, B, and D are more general topics that can be discussed openly in front of the parent without compromising the teenager's privacy or comfort.

5. A newborn has been diagnosed with Hirschsprung’s disease. The parent asks the nurse about the symptoms that led to the diagnosis. Which symptoms should the nurse include in the response?

• A. Acute diarrhea and dehydration
• B. Current jelly-like stools and pain
• C. Failure to pass meconium and abdominal distension
• D. Projectile vomiting and altered electrolytes

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Failure to pass meconium and abdominal distension. Hirschsprung’s disease is commonly diagnosed in newborns due to the failure to pass meconium within the first 24-48 hours after birth and abdominal distension, indicating a bowel obstruction. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because they do not correspond to the typical symptoms of Hirschsprung’s disease. Acute diarrhea and dehydration, current jelly-like stools and pain, and projectile vomiting with altered electrolytes are not characteristic of this condition.

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