Nursing Elites

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?

• A. Ask the parent when the neck was injured
• B. Refer for immediate medical evaluation
• C. Continue assessment to determine the cause of the neck pain
• D. Record head lag on the assessment record and continue the assessment of the child

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?

• A. Decreased surface area
• B. Lower metabolic rate
• C. Immature kidney functioning
• D. Decreased daily exchange of extracellular fluid

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?

• A. Allows the nurse to know exactly what to do when caring for pediatric patients
• B. Is predictable and aids in controlling the child’s development
• C. Is a set of facts that each child follows in a prescribed method
• D. Provides a framework to guide the nurse in caring for the patient

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?

• 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.

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

• A. Hyperreflexia
• B. Abdominal cramps
• C. Cardiac dysrhythmias
• D. Dry, sticky mucous membranes

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.

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