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. The parent of a child hospitalized with acute glomerulonephritis asks the nurse why blood pressure readings are being taken so often. What knowledge should influence the nurse's reply?

• A. The antibiotic therapy contributes to labile blood pressure values.
• B. Hypotension leading to sudden shock can develop at any time.
• C. Acute hypertension is a concern that requires monitoring.
• D. Blood pressure fluctuations indicate that the condition has become chronic.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Acute hypertension is a common complication of acute glomerulonephritis, requiring frequent monitoring to prevent complications such as encephalopathy or heart failure. Blood pressure fluctuations can occur but are not necessarily indicative of chronic disease.

3. What type of shock is characterized by a hypersensitivity reaction causing massive vasodilation and capillary leaks, which may occur with drug or latex allergy?

• A. Neurogenic shock
• B. Cardiogenic shock
• C. Hypovolemic shock
• D. Anaphylactic shock

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Anaphylactic shock is a severe allergic reaction that causes massive vasodilation and increased capillary permeability, leading to rapid fluid shifts and circulatory collapse if not treated promptly. Neurogenic, cardiogenic, and hypovolemic shocks have different etiologies.

4. Rectal temperatures are indicated in which situation?

• A. In the newborn period
• B. Whenever accuracy is essential
• C. Rectal temperatures are never indicated
• D. When rapid temperature changes are occurring

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Rectal temperatures provide the most accurate measurement of core body temperature and are therefore indicated when accuracy is essential.

5. Melena, the passage of black, tarry stools, suggests bleeding from which source?

• A. The perianal or rectal area
• B. The upper gastrointestinal (GI) tract
• C. The lower GI tract
• D. Hemorrhoids or anal fissures

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Melena indicates bleeding from the upper GI tract. The black, tarry appearance of the stool results from the partial digestion of blood as it passes through the intestines, typically originating from sources like the stomach or duodenum. Lower GI bleeding usually presents as bright red blood in the stool, originating from sources like the colon or rectum. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because melena specifically points to upper GI bleeding rather than issues in the perianal/rectal area, lower GI tract, or hemorrhoids/anal fissures.

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