which of the following findings would indicate an altered mental status in a small child
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Nursing Elites

HESI LPN

Pediatrics HESI 2023

1. Which of the following findings would indicate altered mental status in a small child?

Correct answer: C

Rationale: In a small child, displaying a lack of attention to the EMT-B's presence would indicate altered mental status. This behavior suggests a diminished level of consciousness or awareness, which is concerning. Recognizing the parents (Choice A) is a normal and expected behavior for a child. Showing fright at the EMT-B's presence (Choice B) may indicate fear or anxiety but not necessarily altered mental status. Maintaining consistent eye contact with the EMT-B (Choice D) may indicate engagement or curiosity rather than altered mental status.

2. A parent brings an 18-month-old toddler to the clinic. The parent states, 'My child is so difficult to please, has temper tantrums, and annoys me by throwing food from the table.' What is the nurse’s best response?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: “Toddlers are learning to assert independence, and this behavior is expected at this age.” At 18 months, toddlers are in the stage of developing autonomy and independence. They may exhibit behaviors like temper tantrums and defiance as they assert their independence and test limits. It is crucial for parents and caregivers to understand that these behaviors are typical for toddlers at this age. Choice A is incorrect because discipline should be age-appropriate and focus on positive reinforcement rather than preventing antisocial behaviors. Choice C is inappropriate as leaving a toddler alone in a crib after explaining unacceptable behavior is not a recommended approach and can lead to feelings of abandonment. Choice D is inaccurate as the described behavior is more related to asserting independence rather than the initiative stage of development.

3. When caring for a child diagnosed with cystic fibrosis, what is the priority nursing intervention?

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The priority nursing intervention when caring for a child with cystic fibrosis is administering pancreatic enzymes. Cystic fibrosis is a genetic disorder that affects the digestive and respiratory systems. Administering pancreatic enzymes is crucial in aiding digestion as patients with cystic fibrosis often have pancreatic insufficiency. While providing respiratory therapy and encouraging physical activity are important aspects of care for individuals with cystic fibrosis, administering pancreatic enzymes takes precedence in addressing the malabsorption issues associated with the condition. Encouraging frequent handwashing is also essential in infection control, but it is not the priority intervention specifically related to managing cystic fibrosis.

4. When describing urticaria, what would an instructor include?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B. Urticaria is a type I hypersensitivity reaction where histamine release leads to vasodilation and the formation of characteristic wheals. Choice A is incorrect as urticaria is associated with type I hypersensitivity, not type IV. Choice C is incorrect because in urticaria, erythema typically appears before the development of wheals. Choice D is incorrect as urticaria is typically pruritic and does not blanch with pressure.

5. A nurse is caring for an infant with phenylketonuria (PKU). What diet should the nurse anticipate will be ordered by the healthcare provider?

Correct answer: D

Rationale: A low-phenylalanine diet is necessary for infants with PKU because it helps prevent the accumulation of phenylalanine, which can result in brain damage. Fat-free (Choice A) and protein-enriched (Choice B) diets are not specifically indicated for PKU. While phenylalanine-free (Choice C) may seem logical, complete elimination of phenylalanine is not practical or safe as it is an essential amino acid. Therefore, the correct choice is a low-phenylalanine diet, which restricts phenylalanine intake to a safe level.

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