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. Which parameter correlates best with measurements of total muscle mass?

• A. Height
• B. Weight
• C. Skinfold thickness
• D. Upper arm circumference

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Upper arm circumference correlates best with total muscle mass because it includes both muscle and fat components, making it a reliable indicator of muscle mass.

3. A parent of an infant with gastroesophageal reflux asks how to decrease the number and total volume of emesis. What recommendation should the nurse include in teaching this parent?

• A. Surgical therapy is indicated.
• B. Place the infant in a prone position for sleep after feeding.
• C. Thicken feedings and enlarge the nipple hole.
• D. Reduce the frequency of feeding by encouraging larger volumes of formula.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct recommendation for decreasing the number and total volume of emesis in an infant with gastroesophageal reflux is to thicken feedings and enlarge the nipple hole. Thicker feedings can reduce the frequency and volume of emesis by making the food less likely to be regurgitated. Enlarging the nipple hole helps ensure the thickened feedings can pass through. Surgical therapy (Choice A) is not the initial recommendation for managing gastroesophageal reflux in infants. Placing the infant in a prone position for sleep after feeding (Choice B) is not recommended due to the increased risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). Reducing the frequency of feeding by encouraging larger volumes of formula (Choice D) can exacerbate the reflux symptoms.

4. The nurse is teaching a parent of a 6-month-old infant with gastroesophageal reflux (GER) before discharge. What instructions should the nurse include?

• A. Elevate the head of the bed in the crib to a 90-degree angle while the infant is sleeping.
• B. Hold the infant in the prone position after a feeding.
• C. Discontinue breastfeeding so that a formula and rice cereal mixture can be used.
• D. Prescribed cimetidine (Tagamet) should be given 30 minutes before feedings.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Cimetidine is an H2 blocker that reduces stomach acid, helping manage GER. Holding the infant in the prone position is not recommended due to the risk of SIDS. Breastfeeding should not be discontinued unless advised by a physician. Elevating the head to 90 degrees is excessive.

5. During the 2-month well-child checkup, the nurse expects the infant to respond to sound in which manner?

• A. Respond to name
• B. React to loud noise with Moro reflex
• C. Turn his or her head to side when sound is at ear level
• D. Locate sound by turning his or her head in a curving arc

Correct answer: B

Rationale: At 2 months, infants typically react to loud noises with the Moro reflex, a startle response that is normal at this stage of development.

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