Nursing Elites

1. A 1-week-old infant has been in the pediatric unit for 18 hours following placement of a spica cast. The nurse observes a respiratory rate of fewer than 24 breaths/min. No other changes are noted. Because the infant is apparently well, the nurse does not report or document the slow respiratory rate. Several hours later, the infant experiences severe respiratory distress and emergency care is necessary. What should be considered if legal action is taken?

• A. Most infants have slow respirations when they are uncomfortable.
• B. The respirations of young infants are irregular, so a drop in rate is unimportant.
• C. Vital signs that are outside the expected parameters are significant and should be documented.
• D. The respiratory tract of young infants is underdeveloped, and their respiratory rate is not significant.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: In this scenario, the correct answer is C. Any vital signs outside the expected range in an infant should be documented and reported, as they may indicate a developing condition that requires prompt attention. Choice A is incorrect because slow respirations in infants should not be dismissed without assessment and documentation. Choice B is incorrect because a drop in respiratory rate in this case was significant and should have been documented. Choice D is incorrect because even though infants have underdeveloped respiratory tracts, any abnormal respiratory rate should be taken seriously and documented for monitoring and intervention if necessary.

2. A 6-year-old child with a diagnosis of juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) is being discharged. What should the nurse include in the discharge teaching?

• A. Encourage participation in physical activity
• B. Provide a high-calorie diet
• C. Provide a low-sodium diet
• D. Administer intravenous fluids

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Encouraging regular physical activity is crucial in managing symptoms and improving joint function in juvenile idiopathic arthritis. It helps maintain joint mobility, muscle strength, and overall well-being. Providing a high-calorie diet (Choice B) is not typically recommended unless there are specific nutritional concerns or growth issues. A low-sodium diet (Choice C) may be beneficial in conditions like hypertension, but it is not a primary focus for JIA management. Administering intravenous fluids (Choice D) is not a routine part of managing JIA unless specifically indicated for hydration or medication administration.

3. A newborn with an anorectal anomaly had an anoplasty performed. At the 2-week follow-up visit, a series of anal dilations are begun. What should the nurse recommend to the parents to help prevent the infant from becoming constipated?

• A. Use a soy formula.
• B. Breastfeed if possible.
• C. Administer a suppository nightly.
• D. Offer glucose water between feedings.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Breastfeeding is the best recommendation to help prevent constipation in infants. Breast milk is easily digestible and contains the right balance of nutrients, which can lead to softer stools, thus reducing the likelihood of constipation. Offering a soy formula (Choice A) may not necessarily prevent constipation as effectively as breast milk due to differences in nutrient composition. Administering a suppository nightly (Choice C) is not a routine measure for preventing constipation in infants and may not be suitable for regular use in this scenario. Offering glucose water (Choice D) between feedings is not recommended as it does not provide the necessary nutrients found in breast milk, which are essential for preventing constipation and promoting overall health in newborns.

4. The nurse is caring for an infant with suspected pyloric stenosis. Which clinical manifestation would indicate pyloric stenosis?

• A. abdominal rigidity and pain on palpation
• B. rounded abdomen and hypoactive bowel sounds
• C. visible peristalsis and weight loss
• D. distention of the lower abdomen and constipation

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Visible peristalsis and weight loss are classic clinical manifestations of pyloric stenosis. The obstruction at the pyloric sphincter causes visible peristalsis as the stomach tries to push food through the narrowed opening, leading to the appearance of waves across the abdomen. Weight loss occurs due to poor feeding and frequent vomiting associated with pyloric stenosis. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect. Abdominal rigidity and pain on palpation, rounded abdomen and hypoactive bowel sounds, as well as distention of the lower abdomen and constipation are not typically seen in pyloric stenosis.

5. What is the typical therapeutic management treatment for children with Hirschsprung disease?

• A. Daily enemas
• B. Low-fiber diet
• C. Permanent colostomy
• D. Surgical removal of affected section of bowel

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The most common treatment for Hirschsprung disease is the surgical removal of the affected section of the bowel. This procedure entails excising the part of the colon that lacks nerve cells crucial for normal bowel function. Daily enemas (Choice A) can offer temporary relief for constipation but do not address the root cause of the condition, which is the absence of nerve cells. A low-fiber diet (Choice B) is not a primary therapy for Hirschsprung disease and may not effectively manage the disorder. A permanent colostomy (Choice C) is typically considered in severe cases where other interventions have failed and is not the standard management approach for Hirschsprung disease.

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