Nursing Elites

1. The practical nurse is caring for a child with suspected appendicitis. Which assessment finding should be reported to the healthcare provider immediately?

• A. Nausea and vomiting.
• B. Sudden relief of pain.
• C. Low-grade fever.
• D. Rebound tenderness.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Sudden relief of pain in a child with suspected appendicitis should be reported immediately as it may indicate a rupture of the appendix, which is a medical emergency. Sudden relief of pain is concerning because it can be a sign of a perforated appendix, leading to peritonitis and sepsis.

2. A mother reports to the nurse at the pediatric clinic that her toddler has had a fever and sore throat for the past two days. The nurse observes several swollen red spots on the child's body, some of which are fluid-filled blisters. What action should the nurse take?

• A. Obtain a fluid culture from the blisters
• B. Administer a fever-reducing medication
• C. Cover the draining vesicles with a dressing
• D. Implement transmission precautions

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The presence of swollen red spots and fluid-filled blisters may indicate a contagious condition. Implementing transmission precautions is crucial to prevent the spread of the infection to others in the clinic setting.

3. The nurse is caring for a 15-year-old adolescent who is admitted with a diagnosis of bulimia nervosa. The adolescent’s vital signs are stable, but the nurse notes that the client has dry skin and appears thin. What is the nurse’s priority action?

• A. Initiate a structured eating plan for the client
• B. Establish a therapeutic relationship with the client
• C. Monitor the client’s electrolyte levels
• D. Provide education on healthy eating habits

Correct answer: C

Rationale: In clients with bulimia nervosa, electrolyte imbalances are common due to purging behaviors and can lead to severe complications. Monitoring electrolyte levels is essential to detect and manage any imbalances promptly, as they can be life-threatening.

4. What information should the practical nurse ensure the family understands about caring for a child with a tracheostomy?

• A. Cardiopulmonary resuscitation.
• B. Hygiene practices, including showering.
• C. Proper technique for tracheostomy suctioning.
• D. Application of powder around the stoma.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Cardiopulmonary resuscitation. It is essential for families to be educated in cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) to manage emergencies involving patients with tracheostomies. Maintaining a clear airway is crucial for the child's safety and well-being. Choice B, hygiene practices, although important, is not as critical as CPR in managing a tracheostomy. Choice C, the proper technique for tracheostomy suctioning, is also crucial but does not take precedence over CPR in emergency situations. Choice D, application of powder around the stoma, is not a standard practice and may not be necessary for tracheostomy care.

5. A child with a fever of 39°C (102.2°F) and a sore throat is brought to the clinic. The practical nurse suspects the child has streptococcal pharyngitis. Which diagnostic test should the practical nurse prepare the child for?

• A. Rapid antigen detection test.
• B. Throat culture.
• C. Complete blood count (CBC).
• D. Chest X-ray.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: A rapid antigen detection test is the appropriate diagnostic test for suspected streptococcal pharyngitis. This test is commonly used due to its quick results, helping in the prompt diagnosis and appropriate treatment of the condition. It specifically detects the presence of streptococcal antigens in the throat, aiding in confirming the diagnosis and guiding the healthcare provider in determining the most suitable treatment plan. Throat culture (Choice B) is a confirmatory test but is not as rapid as the rapid antigen detection test. Complete blood count (Choice C) and Chest X-ray (Choice D) are not specific tests for streptococcal pharyngitis and would not aid in confirming the diagnosis.

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