Nursing Elites

1. The healthcare provider is caring for a 9-month-old infant who just returned from the postanesthesia care unit (PACU) after a shunt placement for hydrocephalus. Which healthcare provider prescription should the nurse question?

• A. Vital signs and neurologic checks hourly
• B. Small, frequent formula feedings
• C. Elevate the head of the bed
• D. Daily head circumference measurements

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Elevating the head of the bed in a child with hydrocephalus can potentially increase intracranial pressure. This can be counterproductive and may lead to complications after shunt placement surgery. Keeping the head of the bed flat or slightly elevated is often recommended to optimize cerebral perfusion and reduce the risk of increased intracranial pressure.

2. A 9-month-old infant who is not sitting independently has been diagnosed with ataxic cerebral palsy (CP). Which clinical manifestations would the nurse expect to see in the baby?

• A. Hypotonia and muscle instability
• B. Hypertonia and persistence of primitive reflexes
• C. Tremors and exaggerated posturing
• D. Hemiplegia and hypertonia

Correct answer: A

Rationale: In ataxic cerebral palsy, the characteristic features include hypotonia (low muscle tone) and muscle instability. These manifestations contribute to the infant's difficulty in achieving independent sitting. Hypertonia (increased muscle tone) and persistence of primitive reflexes, as mentioned in option B, are more commonly associated with other types of cerebral palsy like spastic CP. Tremors and exaggerated posturing (option C) are not typical features of ataxic CP. Hemiplegia (paralysis of one side of the body) and hypertonia (increased muscle tone) mentioned in option D are more commonly seen in other types of cerebral palsy, such as spastic CP.

3. A patient is receiving glucocorticoids for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis. The patient complains of having a headache. Which ordered medication should the nurse administer?

• A. Aspirin
• B. Acetaminophen
• C. Ibuprofen
• D. Naproxen Sodium (Aleve)

Correct answer: B

Rationale: When a patient is already receiving glucocorticoids for rheumatoid arthritis and complains of a headache, it is essential to consider the potential interactions and side effects of additional medications. Aspirin and NSAIDs like ibuprofen and naproxen sodium can increase the risk of gastrointestinal irritation and ulceration when used concurrently with glucocorticoids. Acetaminophen is a safer choice in this scenario for managing the patient's headache without exacerbating the gastrointestinal issues associated with the use of glucocorticoids. Acetaminophen does not have the same gastrointestinal side effects as aspirin, ibuprofen, or naproxen sodium, making it the most appropriate option for headache relief in this case.

4. When teaching a parent of a child with hemophilia, which of the following instructions should the nurse include?

• A. Administer aspirin for pain.
• B. Avoid administering NSAIDs.
• C. Restrict physical activities.
• D. Apply heat to joints.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: 'Avoid administering NSAIDs.' Hemophilia is a condition where blood does not clot properly. NSAIDs (Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs) can increase the risk of bleeding in individuals with hemophilia. Therefore, it is crucial for the parent to avoid giving their child NSAIDs for pain management to prevent exacerbating bleeding tendencies. Choice A is incorrect because aspirin, like NSAIDs, can also increase the risk of bleeding. Choice C is incorrect because physical activities should not be restricted but rather managed to prevent injuries that could lead to bleeding. Choice D is incorrect because applying heat to joints can worsen bleeding in individuals with hemophilia.

5. Which strategy is most likely to promote positive behavior in children?

• A. Providing flexible instructions with no consequences
• B. Limiting opportunities until the child performs adequately
• C. Improving the child's competence and creating a positive environment
• D. Setting strict rules with punishments for misbehavior

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Improving the child's competence and creating a positive environment is the most effective strategy to promote positive behavior in children. This approach focuses on enhancing the child's skills and abilities while fostering a supportive and encouraging atmosphere. By empowering the child and surrounding them with positivity, they are more likely to exhibit positive behaviors as they feel competent, valued, and motivated. This strategy emphasizes support and reinforcement over punitive measures, leading to long-lasting behavioral improvements.

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