what is a common sign of hypothyroidism in children

HESI LPN

LPN Nutrition Practice Test

1. What is a common sign of hypothyroidism in children?

A. Weight loss
B. Increased heart rate
C. Dry skin and constipation
D. Elevated blood pressure

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Dry skin and constipation are typical signs of hypothyroidism in children. Hypothyroidism results from an underactive thyroid gland, leading to symptoms such as dry skin and constipation. Weight loss (Choice A) is more commonly associated with hyperthyroidism, where the thyroid gland is overactive. Increased heart rate (Choice B) and elevated blood pressure (Choice D) are also more characteristic of hyperthyroidism rather than hypothyroidism. Therefore, the correct answer is dry skin and constipation (Choice C) when identifying signs of hypothyroidism in children.

2. How much energy is required to raise the temperature of one kilogram of water by 1°C?

A. 10 calories
B. 100 calories
C. 1 kilocalorie
D. 10 kilocalories

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is 1 kilocalorie. This is the amount of energy required to raise the temperature of 1 kilogram of water by 1°C. Choice A (10 calories) and Choice D (10 kilocalories) are incorrect as they do not represent the correct unit of measurement for this specific scenario. Choice B (100 calories) is also incorrect as it overestimates the amount of energy required. The specific heat capacity of water is approximately 1 calorie/gram °C, which means that 1 kilogram (1000 grams) of water requires 1 kilocalorie (1000 calories) to raise its temperature by 1°C.

3. How should one manage a child with an allergy to multiple food items?

A. Avoid all identified allergens
B. Increase dietary exposure to allergens
C. Administer daily antihistamines
D. Restrict all food intake

Correct answer: A

Rationale: When managing a child with an allergy to multiple food items, the most appropriate approach is to avoid all identified allergens. This is crucial to prevent allergic reactions and ensure the child's safety. Choice B, increasing dietary exposure to allergens, is incorrect as it can lead to severe allergic reactions. Choice C, administering daily antihistamines, may help manage symptoms but does not address the root cause, which is avoiding allergens. Choice D, restricting all food intake, is not a viable option as it can lead to malnutrition and other health issues.

4. The parents of a child with sickle cell anemia ask why their child experiences pain. What is the most likely cause?

A. Inflammation of the vessels
B. Obstructed blood flow
C. Overhydration
D. Stress-related headaches

Correct answer: B

Rationale: In sickle cell anemia, pain is primarily caused by the obstruction of blood flow by sickle-shaped cells. This obstruction leads to inadequate oxygen supply to tissues, resulting in tissue damage and pain. Choice A, inflammation of the vessels, is incorrect as it is not the primary cause of pain in sickle cell anemia. Choice C, overhydration, is unrelated to the pathophysiology of sickle cell anemia and would not lead to the characteristic pain experienced. Choice D, stress-related headaches, is also unrelated to the underlying mechanisms of pain in sickle cell anemia.

5. What is a common sign of developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH) in infants?

A. Dislocated patella
B. Limited abduction of the hip
C. Swelling of the knee
D. Hyperextension of the leg

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Limited abduction of the hip is a common sign of developmental dysplasia of the hip in infants. It indicates possible hip dislocation or instability, making it a key clinical manifestation to assess for DDH. Dislocated patella (Choice A) is not typically associated with DDH. Swelling of the knee (Choice C) and hyperextension of the leg (Choice D) are not specific signs linked to DDH in infants, further supporting why they are incorrect choices.