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. When the nurse interviews an adolescent, which is especially important?

• A. Focus the discussion on the peer group
• B. Allow an opportunity to express feelings
• C. Use the same type of language as the adolescent
• D. Emphasize that confidentiality will always be maintained

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Allowing adolescents to express their feelings helps them feel heard and supported, which is crucial for effective communication.

3. The nurse is teaching parents about the types of behaviors children exhibit when living with chronic violence. Which statement made by the parents indicates further teaching is needed?

• A. "We should watch for aggressive play."
• B. "Our child may show lasting symptoms of stress."
• C. "We know that our child will show caring behaviors."
• D. "Our child may have difficulty concentrating in school."

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Children exposed to chronic violence may struggle with stress and concentration but are less likely to consistently exhibit caring behaviors without intervention and support.

4. Which laboratory test would be most important for the nurse to assess when caring for a toddler suspected of having cystic fibrosis?

• A. Liver enzymes
• B. Serum calcium
• C. Sweat chloride test
• D. Urine creatinine

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The sweat chloride test is the primary diagnostic test for cystic fibrosis. Cystic fibrosis is characterized by abnormal transport of chloride and sodium across epithelial cell membranes, leading to increased chloride in sweat. This test is crucial for diagnosing cystic fibrosis in suspected cases. Liver enzymes (Choice A), serum calcium (Choice B), and urine creatinine (Choice D) are not specific tests for cystic fibrosis and would not provide the necessary information for diagnosis in this case.

5. The nurse is teaching a parent with a 2-month-old infant who has been diagnosed with colic about ways to relieve colic. Which statement by the parent indicates the need for additional teaching?

• A. I should let my infant cry for at least 30 minutes before I respond.
• B. I will swaddle my infant tightly with a soft blanket.
• C. I should massage my infant's abdomen whenever possible.
• D. I will place my infant in an upright seat after feeding.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Letting an infant cry for prolonged periods can exacerbate colic and increase the infant's distress. It is better to respond promptly to soothe the baby. Other methods like swaddling, gentle massage, and keeping the infant upright can help relieve colic symptoms.

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