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. During the health assessment of a school-age child, on which problem would the nurse focus more attention based on the child's developmental level?

• A. Infections
• B. Poisonings
• C. Risk-taking behaviors
• D. Accidents and injuries

Correct answer: D

Rationale: During the school-age years, children are more physically active and curious, which increases their risk of accidents and injuries. This developmental stage is characterized by increased exploration and engagement in physical activities. While infections and poisonings are important health concerns, school-age children are more likely to be affected by accidents and injuries due to their active nature. Risk-taking behaviors may become more prevalent in adolescence rather than during the school-age period, making it a less likely focus for the nurse during the health assessment of a school-age child.

3. A parent asks the nurse what to do for their child who has an earache and fever. What should the nurse suggest?

• A. Applying a warm compress to the affected ear
• B. Giving the child a cold drink
• C. Administering acetaminophen
• D. Taking the child to the emergency department

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Applying a warm compress to the affected ear is a recommended home remedy for earaches as it can help reduce pain and discomfort. The warmth can also help improve circulation and promote drainage if there is fluid buildup. Giving a cold drink (Choice B) is not typically beneficial for earaches and fever. Administering acetaminophen (Choice C) can help reduce fever and alleviate pain, but addressing the earache directly with a warm compress is a more targeted approach. Taking the child to the emergency department (Choice D) is not necessary for a common earache unless there are severe symptoms or complications present.

4. A nurse is assessing a child with suspected rheumatic fever. What clinical manifestation is the nurse likely to observe?

• A. Jaundice
• B. Peeling skin on the hands and feet
• C. High fever
• D. Severe joint pain

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D, severe joint pain. Rheumatic fever commonly presents with severe joint pain due to joint inflammation. Jaundice (choice A) is not typically associated with rheumatic fever. Peeling skin on the hands and feet (choice B) is more indicative of conditions like Kawasaki disease. While a high fever (choice C) can be present, it is not as specific to rheumatic fever as severe joint pain. Severe joint pain, along with other criteria like carditis, subcutaneous nodules, erythema marginatum, and Sydenham chorea, are major criteria used in the diagnosis of rheumatic fever.

5. A newborn is admitted to the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) with choanal atresia. Which part of the infant’s body should the nurse assess?

• A. Rectum
• B. Nasopharynx
• C. Intestinal tract
• D. Laryngopharynx

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Choanal atresia is a congenital condition characterized by the blockage of the nasal passages, specifically the choanae that connect the nasal cavity to the nasopharynx. The nurse should assess the nasopharynx to identify any obstruction, confirm the diagnosis, and assess the severity of the condition. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect as they do not pertain to choanal atresia. Choanal atresia specifically involves the nasal passages and nasopharynx, not the rectum, intestinal tract, or laryngopharynx.

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