Nursing Elites

1. While assessing an 18-month-old child, a nurse observes that the toddler can crawl upstairs but needs assistance when climbing the stairs upright. What does this action indicate to the nurse?

• A. Presence of talipes equinovarus
• B. Reflective of neurologic damage
• C. Expected behavior in a toddler of this age
• D. Existence of developmental dysplasia of the hip

Correct answer: C

Rationale: At 18 months of age, needing assistance to climb stairs upright is considered normal behavior for a toddler. Crawling upstairs is a different motor skill and does not necessarily correlate with the ability to climb stairs. The child is still developing gross motor skills, and climbing stairs upright typically requires more coordination and strength, which may not be fully developed at this age. Choices A, B, and D are not relevant in this scenario as the observed behavior is within the expected range of development for an 18-month-old child.

2. A newborn is diagnosed with metatarsus adductus. The parents ask the nurse how this occurred. Which response by the nurse would be most appropriate?

• A. This condition is due to a genetic defect in the bones.
• B. It's most likely from how the baby was positioned in utero.
• C. They really don't know what causes this condition.
• D. There is probably an underlying deformity of the baby's hip.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Metatarsus adductus is a condition characterized by the inward turning of the front part of the foot. It is often caused by the baby's position in the womb, leading to the foot adopting this position. Choice A is incorrect because metatarsus adductus is primarily related to positioning in utero rather than a genetic defect. Choice C is incorrect as there is an understanding of the common cause of this condition. Choice D is incorrect because metatarsus adductus specifically refers to a foot deformity, not a hip deformity.

3. What finding would the nurse expect to assess in a child with hypothyroidism?

• A. Nervousness
• B. Heat intolerance
• C. Smooth velvety skin
• D. Weight gain

Correct answer: D

Rationale: In a child with hypothyroidism, weight gain is a typical finding due to the slowed metabolism associated with the condition. This occurs because thyroid hormone levels are insufficient to regulate metabolism effectively. Choices A, B, and C are not typically associated with hypothyroidism. Nervousness is more commonly seen in conditions like hyperthyroidism, where there is an excess of thyroid hormones. Heat intolerance may be seen in hyperthyroidism as well, where the body's metabolism is increased. Smooth velvety skin is a characteristic finding in conditions like Cushing's syndrome, where there is excess cortisol production.

4. A child with a diagnosis of leukemia is receiving chemotherapy. What is the priority nursing intervention?

• A. Monitoring for signs of infection
• B. Providing nutritional support
• C. Monitoring for signs of bleeding
• D. Monitoring for signs of pain

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The priority nursing intervention for a child with leukemia receiving chemotherapy is monitoring for signs of infection. Chemotherapy can suppress the immune system, increasing the risk of infections. Detecting and managing infections promptly is crucial to prevent complications and improve outcomes. Providing nutritional support is important, but infection prevention takes precedence due to the immediate threat it poses to the child's health. Monitoring for signs of bleeding is relevant in leukemia due to decreased platelet count, but infection surveillance is more critical. Monitoring for signs of pain is essential, but addressing infections promptly is the priority to prevent further deterioration in the child's condition.

5. During a routine monthly examination, a 5-month-old infant is brought to the pediatric clinic. What assessment finding should alert the nurse to notify the health care provider?

• A. Temperature of 99.5°F
• B. Blood pressure of 75/48 mm Hg
• C. Heart rate of 100 beats per minute
• D. Respiratory rate of 50 breaths per minute

Correct answer: D

Rationale: A respiratory rate of 50 breaths per minute in a 5-month-old infant is considered high and may indicate respiratory distress. Infants normally have a higher respiratory rate than older children and adults, but a rate of 50 breaths per minute is above the expected range. This finding warrants immediate attention as it may be indicative of an underlying respiratory issue or distress. Choice A (Temperature of 99.5°F) is within the normal range for body temperature and does not necessarily indicate a critical issue. Choice B (Blood pressure of 75/48 mm Hg) is not typically assessed in isolation for a 5-month-old infant during a routine examination, and the values provided are not indicative of a critical condition. Choice C (Heart rate of 100 beats per minute) is within the normal range for heart rate in infants and may not be a cause for immediate concern during a routine examination.

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