Nursing Elites

1. The apnea monitor alarm sounds on a neonate for the third time during this shift. What is the priority action by the nurse?

• A. Provide tactile stimulation.
• B. Administer 100% oxygen.
• C. Investigate possible causes of a false alarm.
• D. Assess infant for color and presence of respirations.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The priority action for the nurse when the apnea monitor alarm sounds on a neonate is to assess the infant for color and the presence of respirations. This initial assessment helps determine the infant's respiratory status and the need for immediate intervention. Providing tactile stimulation or administering oxygen should only be done after assessing the infant's respiratory status. Investigating possible causes of a false alarm comes after ensuring the infant's well-being through the initial assessment.

2. Which drug is usually the best choice for patient-controlled analgesia (PCA) for a child in the immediate postoperative period?

• A. Codeine sulfate (Codeine)
• B. Morphine (Roxanol)
• C. Methadone (Dolophine)
• D. Meperidine (Demerol)

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Morphine is the drug of choice for PCA in children because of its efficacy, safety profile, and rapid onset of action for pain management.

3. The child is admitted with acute abdominal pain and possible appendicitis. What intervention is appropriate to relieve the abdominal discomfort during the evaluation?

• A. Place the child in the Trendelenburg position.
• B. Apply moist heat to the abdomen.
• C. Allow the child to assume a position of comfort.
• D. Administer a saline enema to cleanse the bowel.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Allowing the child to assume a position of comfort is appropriate as it helps alleviate discomfort without the risk of complications. Placing the child in the Trendelenburg position could increase intra-abdominal pressure and worsen the condition. Applying moist heat may lead to vasodilation and potential perforation in case of appendicitis. Administering a saline enema can be harmful if the appendix is inflamed or perforated.

4. When planning care for a child with a urinary tract infection, the nurse should give priority to which treatment measure?

• A. Provide adequate nutrition to prevent dehydration.
• B. Administer ordered antibiotics on schedule.
• C. Prevent enuresis.
• D. Restrict fluid.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Administering antibiotics on schedule is crucial in treating a UTI effectively and preventing complications. Antibiotics help to eliminate the infection-causing bacteria from the urinary tract. While maintaining adequate nutrition and hydration are important aspects of care, the priority in a UTI is to target the infection with antibiotics. Preventing enuresis (bedwetting) is not directly related to the treatment of the infection. Fluid restriction is not recommended in the management of a UTI; in fact, encouraging adequate fluid intake helps flush out bacteria from the urinary tract.

5. What is the first step in treating a child with suspected anaphylaxis?

• A. Administer oxygen
• B. Start an IV line
• C. Give epinephrine
• D. Monitor vital signs

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Give epinephrine. Administering epinephrine is the first and most critical step in treating anaphylaxis. Epinephrine rapidly reverses the symptoms of anaphylaxis, including airway swelling, hypotension, and shock. Delaying administration can lead to severe complications or death, making it essential in emergency treatment. Choice A, administering oxygen, might be necessary but should not delay the administration of epinephrine. Starting an IV line (Choice B) is important for further treatment but not the initial step. Monitoring vital signs (Choice D) is essential but comes after administering epinephrine to stabilize the child.

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