what is the most appropriate action for a nurse if a child presents with suspected meningitis
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Nursing Elites

ATI RN

ATI Nursing Care of Children 2019 B

1. What is the most appropriate action for a healthcare provider if a child presents with suspected meningitis?

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Isolating the child is a priority to prevent the spread of infection until meningitis is confirmed or ruled out. Meningitis, particularly bacterial, is highly contagious and can lead to outbreaks if not properly managed. Isolation and prompt treatment are critical in preventing serious complications. Administering antibiotics immediately without confirmation of the diagnosis can be harmful if the cause is viral or non-infectious. Performing a lumbar puncture is a diagnostic procedure that should be done by a healthcare provider but is not the initial action when suspecting meningitis. Obtaining a complete blood count may be part of the diagnostic workup but is not the most appropriate initial action in suspected meningitis.

2. The nurse is preparing to care for a newborn with an omphalocele. The nurse should understand that care of the infant should include what intervention?

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The priority intervention for an infant with an omphalocele is to cover the intact bowel with a nonadherent dressing to protect the exposed organs and prevent infection. This intervention is crucial to prevent injury and maintain the infant's safety. Initiating feedings or maintaining pain management are not the immediate priorities in the care of an infant with an omphalocele. Performing immediate surgery may be required in the future, but initially, covering the bowel is the first critical step in management.

3. A parent brings their 2-year-old son in for a well visit. The nurse assesses his growth since the last appointment. Which finding should concern the nurse?

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D. A total weight gain of 15 lb in one year for a 2-year-old is excessive and may indicate an underlying issue such as a metabolic disorder or overfeeding. This rapid weight gain can put the child at risk for health problems. Choices A, B, and C are not typically concerning findings in a 2-year-old. A prominent abdomen can be normal at this age due to a toddler's slightly protruding belly, a forward curve of the spine at the sacral area is a typical finding in young children, and an increase in height of 5 inches in a year is within the expected range of growth for a 2-year-old.

4. Which of the following is a key feature of autism spectrum disorder?

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Delayed speech development is a significant feature of autism spectrum disorder. Many children with autism exhibit delays in speech and language development, which can be one of the early signs of the condition. Hyperactivity, lack of interest in toys, and aggressive behavior are not key defining features of autism spectrum disorder. While some individuals with autism may exhibit these behaviors, they are not universally characteristic of the disorder.

5. How is family systems theory best described?

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Family systems theory views the family as a whole, where changes in one member affect the entire system, and changes can occur at any point within the system.

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