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. Clinical manifestations of sodium excess (hypernatremia) include which signs or symptoms?

• A. Hyperreflexia
• B. Abdominal cramps
• C. Cardiac dysrhythmias
• D. Dry, sticky mucous membranes

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Hypernatremia often presents with dry, sticky mucous membranes due to dehydration. Hyperreflexia and abdominal cramps may also occur, but dry mucous membranes are more consistently observed in cases of sodium excess.

3. The nurse is preparing a child for possible alopecia from chemotherapy. What information should the nurse give regarding alopecia?

• A. Hair usually regrows in two years.
• B. When hair regrows, it may have a slightly different color or texture.
• C. Expose your head to sunlight to minimize alopecia.
• D. Wearing hats and scarves are preferred to wearing a wig.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B. Hair loss from chemotherapy is usually temporary, and when it regrows, it may have a different color or texture. Sun exposure should be minimized, as the scalp may be more sensitive. Wearing hats and scarves can provide comfort and protection, but there is no preference over wearing a wig. Choice A is incorrect because hair regrowth after chemotherapy varies from person to person and usually occurs sooner than two years. Choice C is incorrect as sun exposure should be minimized to protect the sensitive scalp. Choice D is incorrect as the preference between wearing hats, scarves, or a wig is subjective and depends on the individual's comfort and preferences.

4. Which inpatient pediatric patient would not be able to go to the playroom due to their physical condition?

• A. A 4-year-old with chickenpox
• B. A 12-year-old with a fractured femur
• C. A 7-year-old with new-onset diabetes mellitus
• D. A 10-year-old postoperative appendectomy

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A. A child with chickenpox should not go to the playroom due to being contagious, as the virus can easily spread to other children. Children with fractures (choice B), new-onset diabetes mellitus (choice C), or postoperative appendectomy (choice D) do not pose a risk of spreading an infectious disease, so they can safely go to the playroom.

5. The nurse is discussing home care with a mother whose 6-year-old child has hepatitis A. What information should the nurse include?

• A. Advise bed rest until 1 week after the icteric phase.
• B. Teach infection control measures to family members.
• C. Inform the mother that the child cannot return to school until 3 weeks after onset of jaundice.
• D. Reassure the mother that hepatitis A cannot be transmitted to other family members.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Teaching infection control measures is crucial as Hepatitis A is highly contagious, especially in household settings. Proper hand hygiene and avoiding sharing personal items can prevent the spread of the virus within the family. Option A is incorrect because bed rest is not typically required for hepatitis A. Option C is incorrect as the child can return to school once feeling well and no longer contagious, not necessarily after a specific duration. Option D is incorrect because hepatitis A can be transmitted through contaminated food, water, or close personal contact.

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