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. What is the most common cause of acute gastroenteritis in children under 5 years?

• A. Salmonella
• B. Rotavirus
• C. Norovirus
• D. Shigella

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Rotavirus is the leading cause of acute gastroenteritis in children under 5 years. It leads to severe diarrhea and dehydration. Vaccination against rotavirus has significantly reduced the incidence of this disease, but it remains a major cause of morbidity in young children globally. Salmonella and Shigella can cause gastroenteritis, but they are less common in children under 5 years. Norovirus is also a common cause of gastroenteritis, but Rotavirus is the most prevalent in this age group.

3. Which condition is characterized by a 'seal-like' barking cough in children?

• A. Croup
• B. Asthma
• C. Bronchitis
• D. Pneumonia

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Croup is the correct answer. Croup is characterized by a 'seal-like' barking cough due to inflammation and narrowing of the upper airways, particularly the larynx and trachea. It is most common in young children and can cause significant respiratory distress, especially at night. Treatment often includes humidified air and corticosteroids. Asthma (choice B) typically presents with wheezing and shortness of breath, not a barking cough. Bronchitis (choice C) is characterized by productive cough with mucus, not a barking cough. Pneumonia (choice D) often presents with fever, productive cough, and chest pain, not a barking cough.

4. What is the first step in managing a child with anaphylaxis?

• A. Administer antihistamines
• B. Establish IV access
• C. Administer epinephrine
• D. Monitor vital signs

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is to administer epinephrine. Administering epinephrine is the crucial first step in managing anaphylaxis as it helps reverse the severe allergic reaction by constricting blood vessels and relaxing airway muscles, preventing a life-threatening situation. Antihistamines (Choice A) are not the first-line treatment for anaphylaxis and should not delay the administration of epinephrine. Establishing IV access (Choice B) may be necessary but is not the initial step in managing anaphylaxis. Monitoring vital signs (Choice D) is important but should not take precedence over administering epinephrine in the acute management of anaphylaxis.

5. Which vaccine is contraindicated in a child with a history of severe egg allergy?

• A. MMR
• B. Varicella
• C. Influenza
• D. Hepatitis B

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Influenza. The influenza vaccine is produced using egg-based technology, so individuals with a severe egg allergy are at risk of an allergic reaction if vaccinated with the influenza vaccine. This is due to the potential presence of egg proteins in the vaccine. Choices A, B, and D are not contraindicated in children with severe egg allergy. The MMR and Varicella vaccines do not pose a risk for children with egg allergies, and the Hepatitis B vaccine is also safe for these individuals.

Similar Questions