Nursing Elites

1. What is the priority assessment for a nurse when caring for an infant suspected of having necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC)?

• A. Hold feedings.
• B. Check gastric residuals before feedings.
• C. Take rectal temperature.
• D. Closely monitor abdominal distention.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: Closely monitor abdominal distention. Monitoring the abdomen for signs of distention is crucial in the early detection of necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC). In NEC, the bowel wall is edematous and breaking down, leading to abdominal distention. Holding feedings is important in the management of NEC, as feedings may need to be stopped temporarily. Checking gastric residuals before feedings helps in assessing the infant's tolerance to feedings. Taking rectal temperatures is contraindicated in NEC as it can lead to the perforation of the bowel.

2. When taking a child’s blood pressure, what percentage of the upper arm should the nurse ensure the cuff bladder width covers?

• A. 20%
• B. 40%
• C. 60%
• D. 80%

Correct answer: B

Rationale: When taking a child's blood pressure, the nurse should select a cuff with a bladder width that covers 40% of the arm circumference at the midpoint of the upper arm. This ensures accurate readings. Choosing a cuff that covers less or more than 40% can lead to incorrect blood pressure measurements. Therefore, options A, C, and D are incorrect.

3. A young mother asks if her 9-month-old can begin drinking cow’s milk instead of formula. You explain that:

• A. Cow’s milk is easier to digest than formula
• B. Breast milk or formula should be used for now because whole cow’s milk is not recommended for infants under 1 year
• C. As long as whole milk is given and not skim milk, it is okay
• D. Cow’s milk will decrease the chance of iron deficiency anemia

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Breast milk or formula should be used for now because whole cow’s milk is not recommended for infants under 1 year. Cow’s milk is not suitable for infants under 1 year of age as it lacks essential nutrients like iron and can lead to iron deficiency. Therefore, it is important to continue with breast milk or formula to ensure the baby's nutritional needs are met. Choice A is incorrect as cow’s milk is not easier to digest than formula for infants. Choice C is incorrect as the type of milk, whether whole or skim, is not the primary concern at this age. Choice D is incorrect as cow’s milk can actually increase the risk of iron deficiency anemia in infants.

4. The nurse suspects that a child has ingested some type of poison. What clinical manifestation would be most suggestive that the poison was a corrosive product?

• A. Tinnitus
• B. Disorientation
• C. Stupor, lethargy, and coma
• D. Edema of the lips, tongue, and pharynx

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Edema of the lips, tongue, and pharynx is a characteristic sign of corrosive poisoning, indicating damage to mucous membranes from ingestion of a caustic substance. Other symptoms may vary depending on the poison but are not as specific to corrosive ingestion.

5. A 12-year-old girl has recently begun menstruating and is well into puberty. The child is visiting the health care provider today for a routine physical examination. Which finding should cause concern in the nurse?

• A. Breasts of slightly different sizes
• B. Irregular periods
• C. Vulvar irritation
• D. Supernumerary nipple

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Vulvar irritation may indicate an infection or other issues and should be further evaluated. In a pubescent girl, breasts of slightly different sizes and irregular periods are common variations of normal development. Supernumerary nipple, an extra nipple, is a benign condition that is not typically concerning during puberty.

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