Nursing Elites

1. The nurse is caring for an infant who was born 24 hr ago to a mother who received no prenatal care. The infant is a poor feeder but sucks avidly on his hands. Clinical manifestations also include hyperactive reflexes, tremors, sneezing, and a high-pitched shrill cry. What does the nurse consider as a possible diagnosis for this infant?

• A. Seizure disorder
• B. Narcotic withdrawal
• C. Placental insufficiency
• D. Meconium aspiration syndrome

Correct answer: B

Rationale: In this case, the infant's symptoms are consistent with narcotic withdrawal. Infants exposed to drugs in utero may display withdrawal symptoms starting around 12 to 24 hours post-birth. The presentation often includes hyperactive reflexes, tremors, sneezing, high-pitched shrill cry, poor feeding, and sucking avidly on hands. Signs such as loose stools, tachycardia, fever, projectile vomiting, sneezing, and generalized sweating are common. These symptoms are not indicative of a seizure disorder. Placental insufficiency typically leads to a small-for-gestational-age child, which is not mentioned in the scenario. Meconium aspiration syndrome primarily presents with respiratory distress, not the symptoms described in this case.

2. During a routine health assessment, the nurse notes that an 8-month-old infant has a significant head lag. Which is the most appropriate action?

• A. Recheck head control at the next visit
• B. Teach the parents appropriate exercises
• C. Schedule the child for further evaluation
• D. Refer the child for further evaluation if the anterior fontanel is still open

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Significant head lag at 8 months is concerning and warrants further evaluation, as it may indicate developmental delays or neurological issues.

3. Physiologically, the child compensates for fluid volume losses by which mechanism?

• A. Inhibition of aldosterone secretion
• B. Hemoconcentration to reduce cardiac workload
• C. Fluid shift from interstitial space to intravascular space
• D. Vasodilation of peripheral arterioles to increase perfusion

Correct answer: C

Rationale: In response to dehydration, the body compensates by shifting fluids from the interstitial spaces to the intravascular space to maintain blood pressure and perfusion to vital organs. Hemoconcentration and vasoconstriction are other compensatory mechanisms but are less immediate.

4. What urine test result is considered abnormal?

• A. pH 4.0
• B. WBC 1 or 2 cells/ml
• C. Protein level absent
• D. Specific gravity 1.020

Correct answer: A

Rationale: A urine pH of 4.0 is abnormally low, indicating possible acidosis or other metabolic conditions. WBC count of 1-2 cells/ml, absence of protein, and a specific gravity of 1.020 are within normal limits.

5. While making rounds, the nurse observes the following client behaviors. Which child should the nurse further evaluate for postoperative pain?

• A. The 6-month-old in deep sleep
• B. The 2-year-old who is cooperative when the nurse takes vital signs
• C. The 4-year-old who is actively watching cartoons
• D. The 14-month-old who is screaming and thrashing his arms and legs

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D because screaming and thrashing his arms and legs are indicative behaviors of discomfort or pain in young children. The child's actions suggest a higher likelihood of experiencing postoperative pain and necessitate further evaluation. Choices A, B, and C do not exhibit overt signs of distress or discomfort associated with pain, making them less likely candidates for postoperative pain assessment.

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