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. What is the most common cause of abdominal pain in school-aged children?

• A. Gastroenteritis
• B. Constipation
• C. Appendicitis
• D. Irritable bowel syndrome

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Constipation is the most common cause of abdominal pain in school-aged children. It is often due to dietary factors such as low fiber intake or insufficient fluid consumption. Chronic constipation can lead to complications like fecal impaction and soiling, highlighting the importance of early recognition and treatment. Gastroenteritis, although common, typically presents with diarrhea and vomiting. Appendicitis is more common in adolescents and typically presents with right lower quadrant pain. Irritable bowel syndrome is less common in children and is characterized by recurrent abdominal pain associated with defecation.

4. Baby M is 5 months old. You notice that she now has the ability to grasp objects between her fingers and opposing thumb. This is known as:

• A. Parachute reflex
• B. Grasp reflex
• C. Pincer grasp
• D. Prehension

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Pincer grasp. The pincer grasp is the ability to hold objects between the thumb and another finger, typically developed around 9-12 months. At 5 months, it is early for a pincer grasp to fully develop, but the beginning of this skill can be seen as early as 5 months. Choices A and B are incorrect as the parachute reflex is a protective response to falling and the grasp reflex is an automatic response to touch. Choice D, prehension, is a general term for the act of grasping or holding objects, but it does not specifically refer to holding objects between the thumb and fingers like the pincer grasp does.

5. What is the best indicator of fluid balance in a pediatric patient?

• A. Blood pressure
• B. Heart rate
• C. Weight
• D. Urine output

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Weight is the most accurate indicator of fluid balance in pediatric patients. Changes in weight reflect shifts in body fluid levels more directly compared to other parameters. Blood pressure and heart rate may be affected by various factors other than fluid balance. While urine output is important in assessing renal function, it may not provide a comprehensive picture of overall fluid balance in pediatric patients.

Similar Questions