Nursing Elites

1. Congenital heart defects have traditionally been divided into acyanotic or cyanotic defects. Based on the nurse’s knowledge of congenital heart defects, this system in clinical practice is

• A. helpful because it explains the hemodynamics involved
• B. helpful because children with cyanotic defects are easily identified
• C. problematic because cyanosis is rarely present in children
• D. problematic because children with acyanotic heart defects may develop cyanosis

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The classification system of congenital heart defects into acyanotic or cyanotic defects is problematic because children with acyanotic heart defects may develop cyanosis, complicating the differentiation. Cyanosis can occur in some acyanotic defects due to various reasons such as right-to-left shunting or decreased pulmonary blood flow, making the classification based solely on cyanosis misleading. Choice A is incorrect because while the classification may involve hemodynamics, the main issue lies in the potential for acyanotic defects to develop cyanosis. Choice B is incorrect as the ease of identifying children with cyanotic defects does not address the main problem with the classification system. Choice C is also incorrect as the presence of cyanosis is not the only factor determining the classification's validity.

2. A 6-month-old infant is diagnosed with cystic fibrosis. What explanation should the nurse provide to the parents about this condition?

• 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: 'It is a condition affecting the respiratory and digestive systems.' Cystic fibrosis is a genetic disorder that primarily affects the respiratory and digestive systems. It is caused by a defective gene that leads to the production of thick and sticky mucus in these organs. This mucus can clog airways in the lungs and block the ducts in the pancreas, affecting digestion. Choice B is incorrect because cystic fibrosis is not an autoimmune disorder; it is a genetic condition. Choice C is partially correct in that cystic fibrosis is a genetic disorder, but merely managing it with medication oversimplifies the comprehensive care needed for individuals with cystic fibrosis. Choice D is incorrect as cystic fibrosis is not caused by prenatal exposure to toxins but is a genetic condition inherited from parents.

3. Surgical repair for patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) is done to prevent the complication of

• A. pulmonary infection
• B. right-to-left shunt of blood
• C. decreased workload on the left side of the heart
• D. increased pulmonary vascular congestion

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Surgical repair of patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) aims to prevent increased pulmonary vascular congestion, which can lead to congestive heart failure and respiratory distress. Choice A, pulmonary infection, is not a direct complication of PDA but rather a result of other factors. Choice B, right-to-left shunt of blood, is a characteristic of a different heart condition (e.g., Tetralogy of Fallot) and not specifically associated with PDA. Choice C, decreased workload on the left side of the heart, is not a typical complication of PDA but rather a consequence of left-to-right shunting that can cause volume overload in the pulmonary circulation.

4. The nurse is caring for a child and family who just moved out of a dangerous neighborhood. Which of the following approaches is appropriate based on the family stress theory?

• A. Determining who the decision-maker is
• B. Assessing the child's coping abilities
• C. Exploring how a sibling feels
• D. Explaining procedures to a sibling

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Assessing the child's coping abilities is appropriate based on the family stress theory because it helps the nurse understand how well the child can manage and adapt to the stressors related to the move. This assessment can guide interventions to support the child's emotional well-being and adjustment. Choices A, C, and D are not directly related to assessing the child's coping abilities and may not address the child's immediate needs during this stressful time.

5. A child with a diagnosis of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is being discharged. What dietary instructions should the nurse provide?

• A. Avoid spicy foods
• B. Avoid gluten
• C. Avoid high-fat foods
• D. Avoid dairy products

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct dietary instruction for a child with GERD is to avoid high-fat foods. High-fat foods can relax the lower esophageal sphincter, leading to increased reflux. While avoiding gluten may be necessary for individuals with gluten sensitivity or celiac disease, it is not a standard recommendation for GERD. Avoiding spicy foods and dairy products may help some individuals with GERD, but the most crucial dietary advice is to avoid high-fat foods.

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