what is an essential nursing action when caring for a young child with severe diarrhea
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Pediatric HESI Test Bank

1. What is an essential nursing action when caring for a young child with severe diarrhea?

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Promoting perianal skin integrity is crucial when caring for a young child with severe diarrhea as it helps prevent skin breakdown from the irritation caused by frequent stooling. Maintaining the IV (Choice A) may be necessary but is not directly related to managing perianal skin integrity. Taking daily weights (Choice B) is important for monitoring fluid status but not the priority when addressing perianal skin integrity. While replacing lost calories (Choice C) is essential, promoting perianal skin integrity takes precedence in preventing complications associated with skin breakdown.

2. A parent tells the nurse, “My 9-month-old baby no longer has the same strong grasp that was present at birth and no longer acts startled by loud noises.” How should the nurse explain these changes in behavior?

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: “These responses are replaced by voluntary activity at about five months of age.” The grasp reflex and startle reflex (Moro reflex) are normal in newborns but typically disappear as the infant's nervous system matures and voluntary control develops. Choice A is incorrect because checking the responses before deciding a course of action does not address the developmental milestone related to the reflexes. Choice B is incorrect as it jumps to a conclusion of developmental delay without considering the normal developmental process. Choice C is incorrect as additional sensory stimulation is not necessary for the return of these reflexes, as they are expected to naturally diminish as part of normal development.

3. An infant is diagnosed with Hirschsprung disease. What nursing intervention is essential before surgery?

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct nursing intervention essential before surgery for an infant with Hirschsprung disease is maintaining NPO (nothing by mouth) status. This is important to prevent aspiration during and after the surgical procedure. Administering antibiotics (Choice A) may be necessary in some cases but is not the priority intervention before surgery. Ensuring bowel rest (Choice B) is not directly related to preparing for surgery and may not be the most critical intervention. Performing regular enemas (Choice C) is not recommended before surgery for Hirschsprung disease as it can aggravate the condition.

4. A parent tells a nurse at the clinic, 'Each morning I offer my 24-month-old child juice, and all I hear is ‘No.’ What should I do because I know my child needs fluid?' What strategy should the nurse suggest?

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Offering a choice between two options allows the child to feel a sense of control while ensuring they get the necessary fluids. Providing a choice empowers the child and increases the likelihood of cooperation. Distracting the child with food or offering the glass in a firm manner may not address the underlying issue of refusal. Allowing the child to witness the parent's anger can create a negative environment and may not help in resolving the situation positively.

5. During postoperative care for a child who has had a tonsillectomy, what is an important nursing intervention?

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Administering antibiotics is crucial post-tonsillectomy to prevent infection, as the surgical site is susceptible to bacterial growth. Encouraging deep breathing exercises can also be beneficial for lung expansion and preventing respiratory complications. However, administering antibiotics takes precedence as it directly addresses the risk of infection. Encouraging the child to eat may not be appropriate immediately post-tonsillectomy due to the risk of throat irritation and potential discomfort. Applying ice to the throat is typically not recommended after a tonsillectomy, as it may constrict blood vessels and hinder the healing process.

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