Nursing Elites

1. Which of the following conditions is characterized by a 'machine-like' murmur in children?

• A. Patent ductus arteriosus
• B. Ventricular septal defect
• C. Atrial septal defect
• D. Coarctation of the aorta

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A, Patent ductus arteriosus. This condition is characterized by a continuous 'machine-like' murmur due to abnormal blood flow between the aorta and pulmonary artery. Ventricular septal defect (choice B) is characterized by a harsh holosystolic murmur, atrial septal defect (choice C) typically presents with a fixed split S2 and a pulmonary flow murmur, and coarctation of the aorta (choice D) is associated with a systolic murmur in the back and bilateral lower extremities.

2. An intravenous line is needed in a school-age child. What medication is an appropriate analgesic for use with this patient?

• A. TAC (tetracaine, epinephrine [Adrenalin], cocaine) 15 minutes before the procedure.
• B. A transdermal fentanyl (Duragesic) patch at the site of venipuncture.
• C. EMLA (eutectic mixture of local anesthetics) immediately before the procedure.
• D. LMX (4% liposomal lidocaine cream) 30 minutes before the procedure.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: LMX is an effective analgesic agent when applied to the skin 30 minutes before a procedure. It eliminates or reduces the pain from most procedures involving skin puncture. TAC provides skin anesthesia about 15 minutes after application to nonintact skin, making it more suitable for wound suturing. Transdermal fentanyl patches are designed for continuous pain control, not rapid pain control needed for a procedure like venipuncture. EMLA, for maximum effectiveness, must be applied approximately 60 minutes before the procedure, making it less suitable for immediate pain relief required for intravenous line placement.

3. A newborn has been diagnosed with Hirschsprung’s disease. The parent asks the nurse about the symptoms that led to the diagnosis. Which symptoms should the nurse include in the response?

• A. Acute diarrhea and dehydration
• B. Current jelly-like stools and pain
• C. Failure to pass meconium and abdominal distension
• D. Projectile vomiting and altered electrolytes

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Failure to pass meconium and abdominal distension. Hirschsprung’s disease is commonly diagnosed in newborns due to the failure to pass meconium within the first 24-48 hours after birth and abdominal distension, indicating a bowel obstruction. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because they do not correspond to the typical symptoms of Hirschsprung’s disease. Acute diarrhea and dehydration, current jelly-like stools and pain, and projectile vomiting with altered electrolytes are not characteristic of this condition.

4. An infant is born with anencephaly. Based on the knowledge of this diagnosis, what information does the nurse consider when interacting with the family?

• A. Many treatment options exist.
• B. Immediate surgery is necessary.
• C. The condition is incompatible with life.
• D. The child will have permanent disabilities.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: 'The condition is incompatible with life.' Anencephaly is the most serious neural tube defect where both hemispheres of the brain are absent. It is incompatible with life, as there are no medical or surgical treatment options available. While some infants with mature brain stem function can maintain vital functions for a short period, anencephaly is ultimately not survivable. Choice A is incorrect as there are no treatment options for anencephaly. Choice B is incorrect as immediate surgery is not necessary for this condition. Choice D is incorrect as an infant with anencephaly will not have permanent disabilities since the condition is not compatible with life.

5. Why is knowledge of developmental theories useful for the nurse?

• A. Allows the nurse to know exactly what to do when caring for pediatric patients
• B. Is predictable and aids in controlling the child’s development
• C. Is a set of facts that each child follows in a prescribed method
• D. Provides a framework to guide the nurse in caring for the patient

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D. Understanding developmental theories helps nurses anticipate and plan appropriate care based on the child’s developmental stage. Choice A is incorrect because developmental theories provide a framework but do not dictate exact actions. Choice B is incorrect as developmental processes are not entirely predictable and are not meant to control a child’s development. Choice C is incorrect as developmental theories are not a strict set of facts that all children follow in a prescribed manner, but rather guidelines for understanding and supporting a child's growth and development.

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