Nursing Elites

1. What is an important nursing responsibility when a dysrhythmia is suspected?

• A. order an immediate electrocardiogram
• B. count the radial pulse every 1 minute for five times
• C. count the apical pulse for 1 full minute, and compare the rate with the radial pulse rate
• D. have someone else take the radial pulse simultaneously with the apical pulse

Correct answer: C

Rationale: When a dysrhythmia is suspected, an important nursing responsibility is to count the apical pulse for 1 full minute and then compare this rate with the radial pulse rate. This method helps in identifying dysrhythmias as it allows for a direct comparison of the heart's rhythm at two different pulse points. Ordering an immediate electrocardiogram (Choice A) may be necessary but should not be the first step. Counting the radial pulse multiple times (Choice B) is not as accurate as comparing rates directly. Having someone else take the radial pulse simultaneously (Choice D) may introduce errors and inconsistencies in the measurement.

2. A child with Duchenne muscular dystrophy is to receive prednisone as part of his treatment plan. After teaching the child's parents about this drug, which statement by the parents indicates the need for additional teaching?

• A. We should give this drug after he eats something.
• B. We need to watch carefully for possible infections.
• C. The drug should not be stopped abruptly.
• D. He might experience weight gain with this drug.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Giving prednisone with food helps prevent gastrointestinal upset. Therefore, the correct statement is that the drug should be given after the child eats something, not before. Watching for infections is important due to prednisone's immunosuppressive effects, making choice B correct. Choice C is accurate because prednisone should be tapered off gradually to prevent withdrawal symptoms. Weight gain is a common side effect of prednisone, so choice D is also correct. The incorrect statement is choice A, as prednisone should be administered after a meal.

3. During the second week of hospitalization for intravenous antibiotic therapy, a 2-year-old toddler whose family is unable to visit often smiles easily, goes to all the nurses happily, and does not express interest in the parent when the parent does visit. The parent tells the nurse, 'I am pleased about the adjustment but somewhat concerned about my child’s reaction to me.' How should the nurse respond?

• A. The child is repressing feelings towards the parent.
• B. Routines have been established, and the child feels safe.
• C. The child has given up fighting and accepts the separation.
• D. Behavior has improved because the child feels better physically.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C. The child's behavior of smiling easily, interacting happily with nurses, and showing disinterest in the parent when they visit indicates that the child has emotionally withdrawn and accepted the separation. This response suggests that the child may have given up fighting against the separation from the parent due to prolonged hospitalization. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect. Choice A about the child repressing feelings towards the parent is not supported by the scenario. Choice B about routines and feeling safe does not address the emotional aspect of the child's behavior. Choice D about improved behavior due to feeling better physically does not explain the emotional dynamics at play in the child's behavior.

4. A nurse is planning an initial home care visit to a mother who gave birth to a high-risk infant. For what time of day should the nurse schedule the visit for it to be most productive?

• A. When the husband is out of the home.
• B. At a time when the mother is feeding the infant.
• C. At a time that is convenient for the family.
• D. When the nurse can spend time with the family.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Scheduling the visit at a time that is convenient for the family is the most appropriate choice. This ensures that the family is receptive and available, making the visit more productive. Choice A is incorrect because the presence of the husband may be important for support and decision-making. Choice B focuses solely on the mother and the infant's feeding time, which may not align with the family's overall availability. Choice D is incorrect as it emphasizes the nurse's convenience rather than the family's, which may not lead to an effective visit.

5. When explaining exercise in type 1 diabetes to the parents of a newly diagnosed child, what should the nurse emphasize?

• A. Exercise will increase blood glucose levels
• B. Exercise should be restricted
• C. Extra snacks are needed before exercise
• D. Extra insulin is required during exercise

Correct answer: C

Rationale: In children with type 1 diabetes, it is essential to emphasize the need for extra snacks before exercise to prevent hypoglycemia. Choice A is incorrect because exercise typically lowers blood glucose levels, not increases them. Choice B is inappropriate as exercise is beneficial but needs to be managed carefully. Choice D is inaccurate as extra insulin during exercise can lead to hypoglycemia.

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