Nursing Elites

1. In the management of heart failure, which diuretic is preferred due to its demonstrated significant mortality reduction in patients with heart failure?

• A. Furosemide (Lasix)
• B. Hydrochlorothiazide (HydroDIURIL)
• C. Spironolactone (Aldactone)
• D. Mannitol (Osmitrol)

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Spironolactone, a potassium-sparing diuretic, is the preferred choice in heart failure due to its cardio-protective effect, leading to reduced mortality in patients with heart failure. It is used to manage both hypertension and edema, making it a valuable option in heart failure treatment.

2. What is the priority nursing intervention when caring for a neonate born with bladder exstrophy?

• A. Measuring intake and output
• B. Inserting a Foley catheter
• C. Covering the defect with sterile plastic wrap
• D. Palpating the bladder mass to ensure urine is expelled

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The priority nursing intervention when caring for a neonate born with bladder exstrophy is to cover the defect with sterile plastic wrap. This intervention helps prevent infection and maintains a moist environment, promoting optimal healing and reducing the risk of complications.

3. A child with croup has an increased PCO2, a decreased pH, and a normal HCO3 blood gas value. Which finding does the nurse report to the healthcare provider based on these data?

• A. Uncompensated metabolic alkalosis
• B. Uncompensated metabolic acidosis
• C. Uncompensated respiratory acidosis
• D. Uncompensated respiratory alkalosis

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The blood gas values indicate uncompensated respiratory acidosis. In respiratory acidosis, there is an increased PCO2, decreased pH, and a normal HCO3 level. This condition requires immediate attention to address the underlying respiratory problem causing the acidosis.

4. Which statement most reflects the observation that the infant sleeps soundly, awakens on his own, and maintains a quiet alert state?

• A. This is atypical behavior and should be addressed
• B. The infant should remain on high alert when awake
• C. This shows the infant is making neurological gains
• D. The family is disrupting the child's sleep patterns

Correct answer: C

Rationale: A quiet alert state in infants indicates positive neurological development. It showcases the infant's ability to regulate sleep-wake cycles and maintain an optimal state for learning and interaction. Therefore, observing an infant who sleeps soundly, awakens on his own, and stays in a quiet alert state is a reassuring sign of neurological gains and healthy development. Choice A is incorrect as it misinterprets normal behavior as atypical. Choice B is incorrect as it suggests the infant should be on high alert, which is not developmentally appropriate. Choice D is incorrect as it falsely blames the family for disrupting the child's sleep patterns, whereas the scenario described indicates positive neurological growth.

5. 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.

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