how should a nurse manage a child with a new diagnosis of sickle cell anemia

HESI LPN

LPN Nutrition Practice Test

1. How should a caregiver manage a child with a new diagnosis of sickle cell anemia?

A. Ensure the child receives frequent blood transfusions
B. Promote adequate hydration and pain management
C. Restrict physical activity
D. Administer high doses of vitamin C

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Promoting adequate hydration and pain management is crucial for managing sickle cell anemia to prevent crises and complications. Adequate hydration helps prevent sickling of red blood cells, while effective pain management is essential for addressing the frequent pain episodes associated with the condition. Ensuring the child receives frequent blood transfusions is not the initial management for sickle cell anemia; transfusions are usually reserved for specific complications. Restricting physical activity should be individualized based on the child's condition; some physical activity is beneficial for overall health. Administering high doses of vitamin C is not a standard treatment for sickle cell anemia and does not address the underlying pathology of the disease.

2. Which of the following statements about nutrition is true?

A. Nutrition is the only factor that influences health.
B. Nutrient needs are the same for everyone.
C. Certain nutrients are more important than others.
D. Nutrient recommendations are designed to meet the needs of most healthy people.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D. Nutrient recommendations are designed to meet the needs of most healthy people, providing guidelines for a balanced diet. Choice A is incorrect because while nutrition plays a crucial role in health, it is not the only factor influencing it. Choice B is incorrect as nutrient needs vary based on factors like age, gender, activity level, and health status. Choice C is incorrect because all nutrients are essential for different bodily functions, and none can be deemed universally more important than others.

3. What is the primary goal in managing a child with chronic asthma?

A. Achieve and maintain symptom control
B. Avoid all physical activity
C. Increase dietary sodium
D. Restrict medication use

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The primary goal in managing a child with chronic asthma is to achieve and maintain symptom control. This helps improve the child's quality of life by reducing asthma symptoms and exacerbations. Choice B is incorrect because avoiding all physical activity is not recommended for children with asthma; in fact, regular physical activity can be beneficial. Choice C is incorrect as increasing dietary sodium is not a primary goal in managing asthma. Choice D is incorrect because restricting medication use can lead to uncontrolled asthma symptoms and complications.

4. What should be assessed first in a child with suspected head trauma?

A. Response to verbal stimuli
B. Pupillary reaction
C. Skin color
D. Heart rate

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is to assess the response to verbal stimuli first in a child with suspected head trauma. This assessment helps in determining the child's level of consciousness and neurological status. Assessing the response to verbal stimuli allows healthcare providers to quickly evaluate if the child is alert, oriented, and able to communicate effectively. This initial assessment is crucial in identifying any immediate concerns related to the child's neurological function. Choices B, C, and D are not the primary assessments in cases of suspected head trauma. While pupillary reaction, skin color, and heart rate are important assessments in trauma situations, assessing the response to verbal stimuli takes precedence in evaluating the neurological status of a child with head trauma.

5. Why must a child with acute laryngotracheobronchitis be kept NPO?

A. The epinephrine administration may cause nausea and vomiting
B. The child is being hydrated with IV fluids
C. The child may not feel hungry
D. Rapid respirations pose a risk for aspiration

Correct answer: D

Rationale: In acute laryngotracheobronchitis, rapid respirations increase the risk of aspiration due to compromised airway protection and potential for secretions to enter the lungs. Keeping the child NPO helps prevent the risk of aspiration pneumonia. Choice A is incorrect because epinephrine is not typically used for laryngotracheobronchitis. Choice B is incorrect as hydration with IV fluids does not eliminate the risk of aspiration. Choice C is also incorrect because the child being hungry is not the primary reason for keeping them NPO in this condition.