Nursing Elites

1. Melena, the passage of black, tarry stools, suggests bleeding from which source?

• A. The perianal or rectal area
• B. The upper gastrointestinal (GI) tract
• C. The lower GI tract
• D. Hemorrhoids or anal fissures

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Melena indicates bleeding from the upper GI tract. The black, tarry appearance of the stool results from the partial digestion of blood as it passes through the intestines, typically originating from sources like the stomach or duodenum. Lower GI bleeding usually presents as bright red blood in the stool, originating from sources like the colon or rectum. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because melena specifically points to upper GI bleeding rather than issues in the perianal/rectal area, lower GI tract, or hemorrhoids/anal fissures.

2. The nurse is using a bulb syringe to suction a neonate after delivery. What is an important consideration?

• A. Compress the bulb before insertion.
• B. Clear the mouth and pharynx before the nasal passages.
• C. Use two bulb syringes, one for the mouth and pharynx and one for the nasal passages.
• D. Continue using a bulb syringe until secretions are removed as mechanical suction is contraindicated.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct consideration when using a bulb syringe to suction a neonate after delivery is to clear the mouth and pharynx before the nasal passages to prevent aspiration of amniotic fluid. Compressing the bulb syringe before insertion is important to create suction. Using two bulb syringes is unnecessary, as one is sufficient for both the mouth/pharynx and nasal passages. It is not recommended to continue using a bulb syringe until all secretions are removed; instead, mechanical suction can be employed if more forceful removal of secretions is required.

3. Which medication should the nurse expect to administer to a child with an acute sickle cell pain crisis?

• A. Meperidine (Demerol)
• B. Morphine
• C. Acetaminophen (Tylenol)
• D. Ibuprofen (Motrin)

Correct answer: B

Rationale: In the management of acute sickle cell pain crisis in children, morphine is the preferred medication due to its effectiveness in providing pain relief. Meperidine (Demerol) is less commonly used in this scenario because of its potential for neurotoxicity with repeated doses. Acetaminophen (Tylenol) and Ibuprofen (Motrin) are not typically sufficient for managing the severe pain associated with sickle cell crises and are not the first-line treatment options.

4. The nurse understands that blocks to therapeutic communication include what? (Select all that apply.)

• A. Socializing
• B. All are applicable
• C. Using clichés
• D. Defending a situation

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Socializing, using clichés, and defending a situation are all barriers to effective therapeutic communication. Silence is a useful tool in therapeutic communication.

5. While making rounds, the nurse observes the following client behaviors. Which child should the nurse further evaluate for postoperative pain?

• A. The 6-month-old in deep sleep
• B. The 2-year-old who is cooperative when the nurse takes vital signs
• C. The 4-year-old who is actively watching cartoons
• D. The 14-month-old who is screaming and thrashing his arms and legs

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D because screaming and thrashing his arms and legs are indicative behaviors of discomfort or pain in young children. The child's actions suggest a higher likelihood of experiencing postoperative pain and necessitate further evaluation. Choices A, B, and C do not exhibit overt signs of distress or discomfort associated with pain, making them less likely candidates for postoperative pain assessment.

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