the nurse is assessing a child with a possible fracture what would the nurse identify as the most reliable indicator
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Nursing Elites

HESI LPN

Pediatric Practice Exam HESI

1. When assessing a child with a possible fracture, what would be the most reliable indicator for the nurse to identify?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Point tenderness is the most reliable indicator of a possible fracture in a child. It refers to localized pain at a specific point, indicating a potential bone injury. Lack of spontaneous movement (Choice A) is non-specific and can be due to various reasons. Bruising (Choice C) may be present in fractures but is not as specific as point tenderness. Inability to bear weight (Choice D) can also be seen in fractures but may not always be present, making it less reliable compared to point tenderness.

2. A child with a diagnosis of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is being discharged. What dietary instructions should the nurse provide?

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct dietary instruction for a child with GERD is to avoid high-fat foods. High-fat foods can relax the lower esophageal sphincter, leading to increased reflux. While avoiding gluten may be necessary for individuals with gluten sensitivity or celiac disease, it is not a standard recommendation for GERD. Avoiding spicy foods and dairy products may help some individuals with GERD, but the most crucial dietary advice is to avoid high-fat foods.

3. What finding would the nurse expect to assess in a child with hypothyroidism?

Correct answer: D

Rationale: In a child with hypothyroidism, weight gain is a typical finding due to the slowed metabolism associated with the condition. This occurs because thyroid hormone levels are insufficient to regulate metabolism effectively. Choices A, B, and C are not typically associated with hypothyroidism. Nervousness is more commonly seen in conditions like hyperthyroidism, where there is an excess of thyroid hormones. Heat intolerance may be seen in hyperthyroidism as well, where the body's metabolism is increased. Smooth velvety skin is a characteristic finding in conditions like Cushing's syndrome, where there is excess cortisol production.

4. A child with a diagnosis of cystic fibrosis is under the care of a nurse. What is the priority nursing intervention?

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The priority nursing intervention for a child with cystic fibrosis is administering pancreatic enzymes. This is crucial for managing the condition as it helps in proper digestion of nutrients. Providing respiratory therapy and encouraging physical activity are important aspects of care for cystic fibrosis, but administering pancreatic enzymes takes precedence due to its direct impact on the child's ability to digest and absorb essential nutrients. Encouraging frequent handwashing is a good practice for infection control but is not the priority intervention in this scenario.

5. A 1-week-old infant has been in the pediatric unit for 18 hours following placement of a spica cast. The nurse observes a respiratory rate of fewer than 24 breaths/min. No other changes are noted. Because the infant is apparently well, the nurse does not report or document the slow respiratory rate. Several hours later, the infant experiences severe respiratory distress and emergency care is necessary. What should be considered if legal action is taken?

Correct answer: C

Rationale: In this scenario, the correct answer is C. Any vital signs outside the expected range in an infant should be documented and reported, as they may indicate a developing condition that requires prompt attention. Choice A is incorrect because slow respirations in infants should not be dismissed without assessment and documentation. Choice B is incorrect because a drop in respiratory rate in this case was significant and should have been documented. Choice D is incorrect because even though infants have underdeveloped respiratory tracts, any abnormal respiratory rate should be taken seriously and documented for monitoring and intervention if necessary.

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