the nurse has just started assessing a young child who is febrile and appears ill there is hyperextension of the childs head opisthotonos with pain on
Logo

Nursing Elites

ATI RN

ATI Nursing Care of Children

1. The nurse has just started assessing a young child who is febrile and appears ill. There is hyperextension of the child's head (opisthotonos) with pain on flexion. Which is the most appropriate action?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Opisthotonos with pain on flexion is a sign of possible meningitis or other serious neurological conditions, requiring immediate medical evaluation.

2. What factor predisposes an infant to fluid imbalances?

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Infants have immature kidneys that are less efficient at concentrating urine, making them more susceptible to fluid imbalances. Their higher surface area to volume ratio also contributes to greater insensible fluid losses.

3. Why is knowledge of developmental theories useful for the nurse?

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D. Understanding developmental theories helps nurses anticipate and plan appropriate care based on the child’s developmental stage. Choice A is incorrect because developmental theories provide a framework but do not dictate exact actions. Choice B is incorrect as developmental processes are not entirely predictable and are not meant to control a child’s development. Choice C is incorrect as developmental theories are not a strict set of facts that all children follow in a prescribed manner, but rather guidelines for understanding and supporting a child's growth and development.

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

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.

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

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.

Similar Questions

The nurse notes that a child has lost 3.6 kg (8 lb) after 4 days of hospitalization for acute glomerulonephritis. What is the most likely cause of this weight loss?
A new dad is concerned about his toddler's play patterns. The nurse informs him that ____________ play is normally exhibited by toddlers:
The nurse is educating a new nurse on the identification of pain in children. What does the nurse teach about physiologic measurements in children’s pain assessment?
What statement is an advantage of peritoneal dialysis compared with hemodialysis?
The parent of a 2-week-old infant asks the nurse if fluoride supplements are necessary because the infant is exclusively breastfed. What is the nurse's best response?

Access More Features

ATI RN Basic
$69.99/ 30 days

  • 5,000 Questions with answers
  • All ATI courses Coverage
  • 30 days access

ATI RN Premium
$149.99/ 90 days

  • 5,000 Questions with answers
  • All ATI courses Coverage
  • 30 days access

Other Courses