Nursing Elites

1. Which physiological acid-base balance complication would be most important for the nurse to assess in a patient with diarrhea?

• A. High serum pH
• B. Normal serum pH
• C. Metabolic alkalosis
• D. Metabolic acidosis

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is metabolic acidosis. Diarrhea can lead to the loss of bicarbonate, causing an imbalance in the acid-base status of the body, specifically resulting in metabolic acidosis. High serum pH (choice A) is incorrect as diarrhea-induced bicarbonate loss would lower pH, not increase it. Normal serum pH (choice B) is not the best answer as diarrhea can disrupt the acid-base balance. Metabolic alkalosis (choice C) is an alkaline state, which is less likely to be caused by diarrhea.

2. What is the most appropriate nursing action when intermittently gavage feeding a preterm infant?

• A. Allow formula to flow by gravity
• B. Avoid allowing the infant to suck on the tube
• C. Insert the tube through the nares instead of the mouth
• D. Apply gentle pressure to the syringe to deliver the formula

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct action when intermittently gavage feeding a preterm infant is to allow the formula to flow by gravity. This method helps prevent overfeeding and aspiration, which can occur if the formula is delivered too quickly under pressure. Choice B is incorrect as sucking on the tube can cause complications. Choice C is incorrect as the tube is typically inserted through the mouth. Choice D is incorrect as steady pressure can lead to rapid delivery of the formula, increasing the risk of complications.

3. What is a classic sign of congenital hypothyroidism in newborns?

• A. Jaundice
• B. Hypothermia
• C. Prolonged jaundice
• D. Excessive crying

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Prolonged jaundice is a classic sign of congenital hypothyroidism in newborns. In congenital hypothyroidism, the thyroid gland does not produce enough thyroid hormones, leading to symptoms like jaundice, poor feeding, constipation, and lethargy. While jaundice itself is a common condition in newborns, the term 'prolonged jaundice' specifically points towards the underlying thyroid issue. Hypothermia and excessive crying are not typically associated with congenital hypothyroidism.

4. The parent of a 2-week-old infant asks the nurse if fluoride supplements are necessary because the infant is exclusively breastfed. What is the nurse's best response?

• A. The infant needs to begin taking them now.
• B. Supplements are not needed if you drink fluoridated water.
• C. The infant may need to begin taking them at age 6 months.
• D. The infant can have infant cereal mixed with fluoridated water instead of supplements.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Breastfed infants may need fluoride supplements starting at 6 months if they are not receiving fluoride from other sources, such as drinking water.

5. What is the first sign of puberty in boys?

• A. Enlargement of testes
• B. Decreased levels of testosterone
• C. Voice deepening
• D. Pubic hair

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The first sign of puberty in boys is typically the enlargement of the testes. This is due to the increase in production of testosterone, which leads to physical changes such as growth of the testes. Choice B, decreased levels of testosterone, is incorrect as puberty is marked by an increase in testosterone levels. Choice C, voice deepening, and choice D, pubic hair growth, usually occur later in the puberty process compared to testicular enlargement, making them incorrect answers.

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