Nursing Elites

1. Why is knowledge of developmental theories useful for the nurse?

• A. Allows the nurse to know exactly what to do when caring for pediatric patients
• B. Is predictable and aids in controlling the child’s development
• C. Is a set of facts that each child follows in a prescribed method
• D. Provides a framework to guide the nurse in caring for the patient

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D. Understanding developmental theories helps nurses anticipate and plan appropriate care based on the child’s developmental stage. Choice A is incorrect because developmental theories provide a framework but do not dictate exact actions. Choice B is incorrect as developmental processes are not entirely predictable and are not meant to control a child’s development. Choice C is incorrect as developmental theories are not a strict set of facts that all children follow in a prescribed manner, but rather guidelines for understanding and supporting a child's growth and development.

2. An infant with hydrocephalus is hospitalized for surgical placement of a ventriculoperitoneal shunt. Postoperative nursing care would include what?

• A. Monitor closely for signs of infection.
• B. Place the child with the operative side of the head up.
• C. Avoid pumping the shunt reservoir to maintain patency.
• D. Avoid maintaining a Trendelenburg position to decrease pressure on the shunt.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Postoperative nursing care for an infant with hydrocephalus who underwent ventriculoperitoneal shunt placement includes monitoring closely for signs of infection, as infection is the greatest hazard in the postoperative period. Signs of cerebrospinal fluid infection to watch for include elevated temperature, poor feeding, vomiting, decreased responsiveness, and seizure activity. The child should be placed with the operative side of the head up to reduce pressure on the valve. The shunt reservoir should not be pumped to maintain patency, as this can disrupt its function. Maintaining a Trendelenburg position to decrease pressure on the shunt is contraindicated as it can lead to increased intracranial pressure and compromise the shunt's effectiveness.

3. The nurse is preparing to complete documentation on a patient's chart. Which should be included in documentation of nursing care? (Select all that apply.)

• A. Reassessments
• B. Nursing care provided
• C. Initial assessments
• D. All of the above

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Proper documentation includes reassessments, initial assessments, care provided, and the patient's response, but incident reports are typically documented separately.

4. What is the most effective method to prevent infection in the newborn?

• A. Using disposable items
• B. Practicing proper hand hygiene by staff and family
• C. Administering prophylactic antibiotics
• D. Isolating the newborn from others

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The most effective method to prevent infection in newborns is by practicing proper hand hygiene by staff and family. This is crucial as it helps reduce the transmission of infectious agents, protecting vulnerable newborns. Using disposable items may help, but proper hand hygiene is more effective. Administering prophylactic antibiotics without a specific indication can lead to antibiotic resistance and is not recommended. Isolating the newborn from others is not practical and may not be necessary if proper hand hygiene is maintained.

5. The nurse is assessing a child suspected of having pinworms. Which is the most common symptom the nurse expects to assess?

• A. Restlessness
• B. Distractibility
• C. Rectal discharge
• D. Intense perianal itching

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Intense perianal itching is the most common symptom of pinworm infection, especially at night when the female worms lay their eggs

Similar Questions