Nursing Elites

1. The nurse is providing care for a pediatric client in the emergency department (ED) with a diagnosis of decreased level of consciousness (LOC) secondary to increased intracranial pressure (ICP). Which healthcare provider order should the nurse question?

• A. Passive range-of-motion exercises to promote hip flexion
• B. Oxygen at 2 L nasal cannula to maintain saturation above 95%
• C. Hourly vital signs and neurologic checks
• D. Elevate head of bed 30 degrees

Correct answer: A

Rationale: In a pediatric client with increased intracranial pressure (ICP) and decreased level of consciousness (LOC), passive range-of-motion exercises to promote hip flexion should be questioned as they can potentially increase intracranial pressure. This action may not be safe for the client's condition. The other options are appropriate interventions for managing a pediatric client with increased ICP and decreased LOC.

2. What is the most important statement to include when teaching a patient who is prescribed metronidazole (Flagyl)?

• A. Take the medication with food.
• B. Avoid alcohol consumption.
• C. If you experience a metallic taste in your mouth, call your doctor.
• D. You can stop taking the medication once you feel better.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The most crucial statement to include when teaching a patient prescribed metronidazole (Flagyl) is to avoid alcohol consumption. Mixing metronidazole and alcohol can lead to a disulfiram-like reaction, causing severe symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and headache. Therefore, it is essential to emphasize to the patient the importance of abstaining from alcohol while taking this medication to prevent adverse reactions.

3. What is an initial sign of nephrosis that the nurse might note in a child?

• A. Raspberry-like rash
• B. Periorbital edema
• C. Temperature elevation
• D. Abdominal pain

Correct answer: B

Rationale: In nephrotic syndrome, edema is a common symptom that is generalized and not easily noticeable, even by parents. However, an early sign that can be assessed by the nurse is periorbital edema, which refers to swelling around the eyes. This can be an initial indicator of nephrosis and may prompt further evaluation and intervention.

4. Which clinical manifestation should a nurse monitor for when assessing a pediatric client diagnosed with a basilar skull fracture?

• A. Periorbital ecchymosis
• B. Subdural hematoma
• C. Protruding bone
• D. Epidural hematoma

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Periorbital ecchymosis, also known as raccoon eyes, is a classic sign of a basilar skull fracture. It presents as bruising around the eyes due to blood collecting in the tissues. Monitoring for periorbital ecchymosis is crucial in assessing a pediatric client with a basilar skull fracture because it can indicate the presence of this serious injury.

5. A healthcare provider is assessing an infant who has hydrocephalus and is 6 hours postoperative following placement of a ventriculoperitoneal shunt. Which of the following findings should the provider report to the healthcare provider?

• A. Decreased urine output
• B. Temperature of 37.5 degrees C (99.5 degrees F)
• C. Heart rate 130/min
• D. Leakage of cerebrospinal fluid

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The provider should report the leakage of cerebrospinal fluid to the healthcare provider as it may indicate shunt malfunction or infection, requiring immediate attention to prevent complications. Decreased urine output, a temperature of 37.5 degrees C, and a heart rate of 130/min are common postoperative findings and may not be directly related to shunt function. While these findings should still be monitored, they do not require immediate reporting like cerebrospinal fluid leakage.

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