the practical nurse pn is assessing a child with suspected meningitis which finding is a characteristic sign of meningitis in a child
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Nursing Elites

HESI RN

HESI Practice Test Pediatrics

1. When assessing a child with suspected meningitis, which finding is a characteristic sign of meningitis?

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Photophobia, which is sensitivity to light, is a characteristic sign of meningitis in children. It commonly presents along with symptoms such as headache and neck stiffness. This symptom is important to recognize early for prompt diagnosis and treatment of meningitis.

2. What response should the practical nurse (PN) provide when a school-age child asks to talk with a dying sister?

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct response is D because it is believed that hearing is the last sense to go. Even if the dying person does not respond, speaking to them can still provide comfort. Choice A is incorrect because talking loudly is not necessary and can be distressing. Choice B is incorrect as it focuses on touch rather than the sense of hearing. Choice C is incorrect because sitting close may not necessarily help the dying person hear better.

3. When reinforcing teaching with the parents of a 7-year-old child with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) about the child's medication, which statement by the parents indicates an understanding of the medication's side effects?

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: 'We should monitor our child's growth and appetite regularly.' Correct monitoring of the child's growth and appetite is crucial when a child is on ADHD medications, especially stimulants, as these medications can have side effects related to growth and appetite. Monitoring these parameters regularly helps in assessing the medication's impact and making any necessary adjustments. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect: B talks about drowsiness, C mentions avoiding stomach upset, and D refers to increased urination and limiting fluid intake. While these are potential side effects of medications, they do not directly address the importance of monitoring growth and appetite, which is crucial in children on ADHD medications.

4. The mother of a 9-month-old, diagnosed with respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) yesterday, calls the clinic to inquire if it will be all right to take her infant to the first birthday party of a friend's child the following day. What response should the nurse provide this mother?

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D. RSV is highly contagious, even without direct contact. It is important to prevent the spread of the virus to other children, so the infected child should not attend the birthday party to avoid exposing other children to RSV. This is crucial to protect the health of other children who may be more vulnerable to the virus. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect. Choice A is incorrect as RSV remains contagious for a period of time, and precautions should be taken to prevent its spread. Choice B is incorrect because the age limit specified is not a reliable measure to prevent transmission. Choice C is incorrect as wearing a mask may not be sufficient to prevent the spread of RSV in a social setting like a birthday party.

5. A 13-year-old client with type 1 diabetes is admitted to the hospital with a blood glucose level of 450 mg/dL. The client is lethargic and has fruity-smelling breath. What is the nurse’s priority action?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct priority action for the nurse is to start an IV infusion of normal saline. The client's presentation with lethargy, fruity-smelling breath, and high blood glucose level indicates diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA). IV fluids are essential to correct dehydration and help stabilize the client's condition. Checking for ketones in the urine is important, but fluid replacement takes precedence to address the immediate risk of dehydration and electrolyte imbalances. Administering insulin is also a crucial intervention for DKA, but fluid resuscitation should first be initiated.

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