Nursing Elites

1. In a hospitalized child receiving IV fluids for dehydration, what is the best indicator that the child’s dehydration is improving?

• A. The child’s urine output increases
• B. The child’s skin turgor is normal
• C. The child’s weight increases
• D. The child’s vital signs are stable

Correct answer: A

Rationale: An increase in urine output is a reliable indicator of improving dehydration in a child. It signifies that the kidneys are functioning better, helping to restore fluid balance in the body. Monitoring urine output is crucial in assessing hydration status and response to treatment. Choices B, C, and D are not the best indicators of improving dehydration. Normal skin turgor is helpful but may not change immediately with improving hydration. Weight increase may reflect retained fluids rather than improved hydration status. Stable vital signs are important but may not always indicate improving dehydration.

2. The mother calls the clinic and tells the practical nurse (PN) that her child cannot swallow a prescribed tablet that was dispensed by the local pharmacy as a whole tablet. How should the PN respond?

• A. You can crush the tablet and mix it with food.
• B. You should not force the child to swallow the tablets by holding her nose closed.
• C. If a liquid form is available, the pharmacist can be contacted for a prescription change.
• D. Do not advise the child to chew the tablet if she cannot swallow it.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: When a child is unable to swallow a tablet, the appropriate response is to consider if a liquid form of the medication is available. This is a safer and more effective alternative than forcing the child to swallow or chew the tablet. Contacting the pharmacist for a prescription change can provide a suitable solution that ensures the child receives the medication in a more manageable form. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because crushing the tablet and mixing it with food may alter the medication's effectiveness or taste, forcing the child to swallow or holding her nose closed can be distressing and ineffective, and advising the child to chew the tablet is not recommended as an alternative to swallowing it.

3. When caring for a 4-year-old child diagnosed with celiac disease, the parent asks about foods to avoid. Which response by the nurse is correct?

• A. Avoid all dairy products
• B. Avoid foods containing wheat, barley, and rye
• C. Avoid all foods high in sugar
• D. Avoid foods with artificial coloring

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Celiac disease is managed with a strict gluten-free diet, necessitating the avoidance of foods containing wheat, barley, and rye. Gluten is found in these grains and can trigger an immune response in individuals with celiac disease, leading to damage to the small intestine. Therefore, it is essential for individuals with celiac disease, including children, to carefully avoid gluten-containing foods to maintain their health and well-being.

4. During a routine assessment of a 3-year-old at a community health center, the healthcare professional should be alert for signs of autism spectrum disorder. Which behavior by the child should prompt further evaluation for a possible autistic spectrum disorder?

• A. Engages in odd repetitive behaviors
• B. Shows indifference to verbal stimulation
• C. Strokes the hair of a hand-held doll
• D. Has a history of temper tantrums

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Engaging in odd repetitive behaviors is a hallmark sign of autism spectrum disorder in children. These behaviors can include repetitive movements, insistence on sameness, or specific routines. Recognizing and addressing these behaviors early can help in providing appropriate interventions and support for the child.

5. When should the surgical correction of hypospadias in a newborn infant typically be done?

• A. Repair should be done by one month to prevent bladder infection.
• B. To form a proper urethra repair, it should be done after sexual maturity.
• C. Repairs typically should be done before the child is potty trained.
• D. Delaying the repair until school age reduces castration fears.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Surgical repairs for hypospadias are typically recommended to be performed before the child is potty trained. This timing helps in avoiding complications, ensures better outcomes, and makes the surgical process smoother. Early correction also minimizes the psychological impact on the child regarding genital differences and can improve long-term psychological well-being. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because repairing hypospadias at one month to prevent bladder infection, after sexual maturity to form a proper urethra, or delaying the repair until school age to reduce castration fears are not the standard recommendations. The optimal timing for surgical correction is before the child is potty trained to achieve the best results and psychological outcomes.

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