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. When explaining the occurrence of febrile seizures to a parents' class, what information should the nurse include?

• A. They may occur in minor illnesses.
• B. The cause is usually readily identified.
• C. They usually do not occur during the toddler years.
• D. The frequency of occurrence is greater in females than males.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: 'They may occur in minor illnesses.' Febrile seizures can occur even in minor illnesses, particularly in young children, and are often triggered by a rapid increase in body temperature. Choice B is incorrect because the cause of febrile seizures is not always readily identified. Choice C is incorrect as febrile seizures commonly occur in children between the ages of 6 months to 5 years, which includes the toddler years. Choice D is incorrect as febrile seizures are slightly more common in males than females.

3. Which observation made of the exposed abdomen is most indicative of pyloric stenosis?

• A. abdominal rigidity
• B. substernal retraction
• C. palpable olive-like mass
• D. marked distention of lower abdomen

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: palpable olive-like mass. In pyloric stenosis, a palpable olive-like mass can often be felt in the abdomen due to the hypertrophied pyloric muscle. This mass is a key characteristic finding in infants with pyloric stenosis. Choice A, abdominal rigidity, is more commonly associated with conditions like peritonitis. Choice B, substernal retraction, is not typically seen in pyloric stenosis but can be a sign of respiratory distress. Choice D, marked distention of the lower abdomen, is not specific to pyloric stenosis and can be present in various abdominal conditions.

4. .A 7-month-old girl is to be catheterized to obtain a sterile urine specimen. One of the infant’s parents expresses fear that this procedure may traumatize the baby psychologically. How should the nurse provide reassurance?

• A. The fear is justified and the nurse should obtain a “clean catch” specimen.
• B. Parents have a right to refuse the catheterization and the concerns are realistic.
• C. Although the concern is appropriate, the need for a sterile specimen is the priority.
• D. The procedure is uncomfortable, but there should not be a damaging long-term effect.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: While catheterization can be uncomfortable, it does not typically result in long-term psychological harm, and obtaining a sterile specimen is important for accurate diagnosis.

5. An 8-year-old girl was diagnosed with a closed fracture of the radius at approximately 2 p.m. The fracture was reduced in the emergency department and her arm placed in a cast. At 11 p.m. her mother brings her back to the emergency department due to unrelenting pain that has not been relieved by the prescribed narcotics. Which action would be the priority?

• A. Notifying the doctor immediately
• B. Applying ice
• C. Elevating the arm
• D. Giving additional pain medication as ordered

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct action would be to notify the doctor immediately. Unrelenting pain despite medication can indicate compartment syndrome, which is a medical emergency requiring immediate attention. Applying ice, elevating the arm, or giving additional pain medication may not address the underlying cause of the unrelenting pain, which could be a sign of a serious complication like compartment syndrome. Prompt medical evaluation is crucial in this situation to prevent potential complications.

Similar Questions